Professor Sever Globan Delivers Lecture on Communication in Emergency Medicine

"Communication as Part of the Intervention: Word, Voice, and Relationship in Emergency Medicine" was the title of the invited plenary lecture delivered on October 3, 2026, by Prof. Irena Sever Globan, PhD, from the University Department of Communication Studies, at the scientific conference "Emergency Medical Dispatch Unit: From Call to Intervention."
 

In her lecture, she emphasized that communication in emergency medicine is not merely an adjunct to medical intervention, but an integral part of it. She particularly reflected on the importance of the spoken word, which, when clear, comprehensible, and oriented toward help and cooperation, can have a calming effect, instill a sense of safety, and support a patient or caller coping with fear, pain, and uncertainty. Special emphasis was placed on communication within emergency medical dispatch units, where voice and speech are essential working tools. Sever Globan also addressed the role of paralinguistic elements—tone and intensity of voice, speech rate, rhythm, and pauses—which can substantially influence how the listener interprets and experiences the spoken message.

The third part of the lecture focused on the importance of establishing a professional yet human relationship between emergency medical personnel and patients or callers. In this context, she highlighted the recognition of needs on both sides of the communication exchange, as well as the vital role of empathy, self-empathy, and compassion when working with patients and their family members. The scientific conference was held at the University North – University Centre Varaždin, organized by the Teaching Institute of Emergency Medicine of Varaždin County.