The Shannon-Weaver Model of Communication uses a combination of noise, channeling of information transmission, messaging, signaling, information sources, and the encoding and decoding of information. The model is named after Claude Elwood Shannon and Warren Weaver. It was established in 1948 and was a revolutionary theory of communication at that time. The term now known as the Shannon-Weaver model is now accepted in the social science fields of psychology, organizational management and analysis, and education (Gozzi, 2004).
In health care, the focus is more focused on the communication aspects of the theory. The interruptions and barriers are especially important as the health care professionals need the input of the patients for accurate and reliable health histories and reporting of symptoms. An example of this would be the patient explaining the amount of pain that is being experienced and what caused the onset of the pain. This follows the Shannon-Weaver model in that it helps to select a desired message out of a possible wide range of possible messages. Another way in which it corresponds to the model is how the transmitter changes the message into a signal sent to the receiver by way of the communication channel. This is done in health care applications by having the patient, acting as the transmitter, communicating with the receiver, the health care professional, by way of communication channels, usually through a face to face interviewing process. He health care provider then acts as an inverse transmitter, through using professional knowledge and interpreting the message, and communicating in common language with the patient. The message is then sent to a destination, which may be another professional to perform tests or other professional services or it may be with the patient to change one’s lifestyle. Certain unintended noise may be added to the transmission, or signal, which can be from the patient’s previous knowledge or beliefs, resistance of following directions, or apprehension to making suggested changes. This noise can be either beneficial or hurtful (Turner, 2007).
References
Gozzi, R. (2004). Where is the "Messsage" in communication models? Et
Cetera, 61(1), 145-146. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/204263146?accountid=458
Turner, V. L. (2007). RN perceptions of quality communications in the workplace. (Order No.
1444726, D'Youville College). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, , 93-n/a. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/304739362?accountid=458.
(prod.academic_MSTAR_304739362).
