Therapeutic CommunicationNursing Concepts
C. Calzolari
Learner’s Objectives:
Define Therapeutic Communication. Describe the importance of therapeutic communication in the
nursing process. Explain rapport and its importance in nursing. Differentiate between verbal and nonverbal communication.
Give examples of each. Discuss factors that influence the effectiveness of
communication. Demonstrate the interviewing and communication skills of
questioning, therapeutic silence, and clarifying. Describe communication techniques used with special
situations.
What is Therapeutic Communication?
Patient- Centered Communication Focuses on the Patient The goal is to promote a greater understanding of
patient’s needs, concerns and feelings. The nurse helps the patient explore their own thoughts &
feelings, encourages expression of them, and avoids barriers to communication.
Why is it IMPORTANT?
Tell me…
The Approach
The nurse who is using therapeutic communication will:
Refer to handout
Components of Communication
Types of Communication
Verbal
Non-Verbal
Should be CONGRUENT
Verbal Communication
Sharing information through the written or spoken word
Verbal Barriers Neeb’s book, pp. 21-23
False Reassurance/Social Clichés Minimizing/Belittling Asking “WHY?” Advising Agreeing or Disagreeing Closed-ended Questions Providing the Answer with a Question Changing the Subject Approving or Disapproving
Non –Verbal Communication
Sharing information without using words or language
It expresses emotions and attitudes, as well as enhancing what is being expressed verbally.
Personal Space See FUNDAMENTALS Book, p. 117 for cultural differences regarding personal space
Eye Contact
Body Movements
Personal Appearance and Grooming
Therapeutic Use of Touch
Factors Influencing Communication
Attention Culture & Ethnicity Age Gender Social Factors
Difficult Client Behavior
More on Behavior…
Passivity Aggressiveness Assertiveness
“You make me angry when you don’t help.”
Using Unbiased Language When Documenting Client Behaviors
The nurse objectively describes eye contact, rather than applying judgments. For example, “The client looks at the floor when speaking” is descriptive and nonjudgmental. (A judgmental statement such as “good eye contact” implies that all clients should behave like most Western Europeans or Caucasian Americans.)
THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES
THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES Interviews Offering Self Using Empathy Closed vs. Open Ended Questions (Handout) Use of Silence Clarification Reflection/Repeating/Parroting Paraphrasing Summarizing Using Unfinished Statements Giving Information Stating Implied Thoughts and Feelings
Communicating in Special Situations
Communicating With Different Age Levels Communicating With the Client Who Has Sensory
Problems The Unconscious Client The Person With Aphasia The Client Who Is Not Able or Who Refuses to Speak The Client Who Speaks a Different Language The Person Who is Anxious The Person with Severe Mental Illness
FACILITATING COMMUNICATION IN HEALTHCARE
Nurses facilitate communication between clients and members of the nursing team in various ways
Key Points
Effective communication is the cornerstone to competent nursing care. This is true in any setting.
Top Related