A factor that may affect communication

A factor that may affect communication is the use and abuse of power. In health and social care effectively every care provider has power over all patients on what standard of care they receive.
The word power is defined as…..
“The capacity or ability to direct or influence the behaviour of others or the course of events” - http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/power
Often when we communicate there is always an overall power within that communication. The speaker may create the status of ring leader. This power throughout communication may be seen as a strength, as they are leading the conversation, however this power may be perceived negatively. The recipient in the conversation may feel small and belittled as there is no chance for them to talk, this may therefore cause communication to be less effective.
In health and social care both the care provider and patients have power. The patient would have power over final decisions that need to be made concerning their care, however the care provider would have power over the level of care given. This balance of power should always be shared positively.
Power throughout communication plays an important role. The care giver should always take the lead. It is important for the patient to have their say on any decisions that may be made, however if the care provider feels they are making the wrong decision they should use their all their power of medical intelligence to persuade the patient to make the right decision.
Abuse of power may be seen in the workplace. As an example a care worker may be the subject of abuse) by senior management. The senior management may think that the care worker won’t tell anyone due to his or her higher status. This would be an abuse of power on their behalf as they are using their higher level of management to intimidate. This care workers communication throughout the job may also suffer due to their being in a vulnerable state.
A strategy that may help any