Therapeutic communication is a purposeful, planned approach to nurse-patient interaction designed to build trust, explore feelings, and promote healing. It is a core competency tested on the NCLEX.
Give full attention through eye contact, nodding, leaning forward. Shows you value what the patient says.
"Tell me about your pain" vs. "Do you have pain?" Encourages patients to share more information.
Repeating or paraphrasing what the patient said: "You're feeling anxious about the surgery?"
Repeat the patient's exact words for clarification: Patient: "I can't take it anymore." Nurse: "You can't take it anymore?"
Direct the conversation to important topics: "Let's talk more about the chest pain you mentioned."
Allowing pauses for the patient to gather thoughts. Don't rush to fill silence.
Pulling together key points: "So today you've told me about your increased pain, difficulty sleeping, and concerns about your medications."
"I'll sit with you for a while" or "I'm here if you need to talk." Shows availability without demanding interaction.
"That must be really difficult for you" acknowledges feelings without judgment.
"How are you feeling today?" or "What's on your mind?" gives the patient control of the conversation.
"You should..." or "If I were you..." removes patient autonomy.
"Everything will be fine" or "Don't worry" minimizes concerns and is potentially dishonest.
Avoids the patient's concerns and signals you're uncomfortable.
"Why did you do that?" sounds judgmental and puts patients on the defensive.
"It's not that bad" or "Others have it worse" invalidates feelings.
"That's good" or "You shouldn't feel that way" imposes your values.
"Your doctor knows best" dismisses the patient's concern.
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