Communication Exam 4 Flashcards

(52 cards)

1
Q

What are the four phases of therapeutic communication? on exam

A
  1. Pre-interaction Phase
  2. Orientation Phase
  3. Working Phase
  4. Termination Phase

Each phase has specific goals and activities that facilitate effective communication.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What is the difference between verbal and nonverbal communication? on exam

A

Verbal communication involves spoken or written words, while nonverbal communication includes body language, gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What factors can affect communication with patients? on exam

A

Factors include:
* Educational differences
* Developmental delays
* Inability of receiver to concentrate
* Cultural/language differences
* Hearing or vision impairments

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What is SBAR in professional communication?

A

SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation and is a structured communication technique used in healthcare.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What are the five elements of the communication process?

A
  1. Sender
  2. Message
  3. Encoding
  4. Receiver
  5. Feedback

These elements are essential for effective communication.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

What is effective communication?

A

Effective communication is a skill that nurses must develop to provide quality care and ensure client safety.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Define intrapersonal communication.

A

Intrapersonal communication is ‘self-talk,’ where an individual reflects on their thoughts and feelings.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What is the primary goal of the orientation phase in therapeutic communication?

A

The primary goal is to establish rapport and trust with the client.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What occurs during the working phase of therapeutic communication?

A

Most therapeutic communication occurs, where the nurse communicates caring and the patient expresses thoughts and feelings.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What is the termination phase in therapeutic communication?

A

The termination phase marks the conclusion of the nurse-client relationship, summarizing and reviewing the communication.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

List common barriers to effective therapeutic communication.

A
  • Asking irrelevant personal questions
  • Offering personal opinions
  • Stereotyping
  • Giving false reassurance
  • Minimizing feelings
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

What is active listening?

A

Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the client is saying.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What are some techniques for effective communication?

A
  • Clarifying
  • Restating
  • Reflecting
  • Paraphrasing
  • Exploring
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What does the term ‘credibility’ refer to in the context of nursing communication?

A

Credibility refers to being knowledgeable, consistent, honest, confident, and dependable.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Fill in the blank: The method of transmitting a message can include _______.

A

[channel types such as face-to-face, phone, text, etc.]

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What are the characteristics of effective therapeutic communication?

A
  • Client-centered
  • Purposeful
  • Planned
  • Goal-directed
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is the role of EHR in healthcare communication?

A

EHR stands for Electronic Health Record, a digitized documentation system that improves medical records and facilitates sharing among healthcare providers.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What can silence in communication provide?

A

Silence can allow time for meaningful reflection.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What should a nurse do if communication barriers exist?

A

Assess preferred methods of communication and provide necessary aids or interpreters.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What is assertive communication?

A

Assertive communication is the expression of thoughts and feelings in a direct, open, honest, and nonjudgmental manner.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

What are some considerations for communicating with older clients?

A
  • Generational gaps
  • Hearing impairments
  • Vision problems
22
Q

How should a nurse evaluate communication effectiveness?

A

Assess if client responses were expected and whether goals were met.

23
Q

What does AAC stand for in communication methods?

A

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, which includes various communication methods.

24
Q

What is the importance of timing and relevance in communication?

A

Knowing when to communicate enhances effectiveness, avoiding moments when the patient is in pain or distracted.

25
What is the purpose of documentation in nursing?
Documentation provides a clear, concise, and complete representation of the client’s healthcare experience.
26
What are SMART goals in communication?
SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives for patient communication.
27
basic levels of communication include?
intrapersonal- most common interpersonal- exchange of information small group public communication mass communication- social media
28
SBAR- will be an exam question
you to call. State the following: -Your name -Your unit -The patient’s name and room number -Brief overview of the problem Background: Give other information pertinent to the situation—not the patient’s entire history since admission, but circumstances leading up to the situation. Assessment: State the problem and what you think is causing it. Recommendation: State what you think will correct the problem, or what you need from the provider. Question: Allow an opportunity to ask or answer any questions. Review specific concerns.
29
types of verbal communication. will have scenario.
Denotative (literal) and connotative (implied) meaning - participants must share meanings when communicating. Different interpretation can cause miscommunication. Clarity and brevity - short and simple is most effective; long and complex may be difficult to understand and follow. Timing and relevance - knowing when to communicate makes it most effective. Most opportune time may not be when the patient is in pain or distracted. Pacing - rate of speech may be interpreted differently than intended. Rapid speech may look as if sender is rushed. Intonation - tone communicates a variety of feelings. “It’s not what you said, but HOW you said it”.
30
therapeutic communication
Foundational to the nurse-client relationship Client-centered, not social or reciprocal Purposeful, planned, and goal-directed Expresses empathy and genuine concern for client and family issues May require age-appropriate techniques may need to be used to enhance communication Plan for and allow time to effectively communicate Requires attentive behavior and active listening Must be honest, direct, open, and sincere Demonstrates trustworthiness and acceptance
31
Empathy is where?
you understand but have no experience
32
what sympathy?
relate- same experience
33
Therapeutic communication- 4 phases
pre-interaction phase- report orientation phase- establish report and trust working phase-, the nurse communicates caring, the patient expresses thoughts and feelings, mutual respect is maintained, and honest verbal and nonverbal expression occurs. Key communication goals are to assist the client to clarify feelings and concerns. A professional relationship is courteous, trustworthy, and confidential, and accomplished by active listening. Biggest phase Termination- end of shift/discharge conclusion of relationship
34
barriers to effective TC
irreverent questions arguing judging stereotyping probing challenging
35
Skill for effective commuication
silence presenting reality touch taking the time provide facts
36
communication techniques
clarifying "i heard you" reflecting and examine feelings paraphrasing acceptance
37
talking with coworkers
clear, respect, professionally round with interdisciplinary teams handoff at bedside CUS words assertive communication
38
Documentation on communication exam
The goal of all nursing documentation is a clear, concise, and complete representation of the client’s healthcare experience that is easily accessible and understood by all members of the healthcare team. Effective documentation allows you to help clients make sound health decisions. It also enables use of current and consistent data, problem statements, diagnoses, goals, and strategies to support continuity of care. Documentation serves as another form of communication between healthcare providers. Charting by exception (CBE) is common and saves the nurse charting time but can omit important information. Focused charting addressing the chief complaint but may miss other problems. Never document an intervention without a response 30-60 minutes later!
39
assessment for communication
Determine impaired communication type and history Consider physical and mental status Medications Substance abuse Developmental status Cultural considerations Determine barriers that may be contributed (as previously discussed) Past medical experiences
40
SMART goals for clients
Client will use alternative methods of communication effectively by discharge. Client will demonstrate minimal frustration with communication difficulties by the end of shift. Client will effectively communicate via an interpreter AEB relaxation and positive body language by the end of the day. Client will accurately display appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication by the end of shift. Client will actively communicate in healthcare plans and goals with nursing staff by the time of discharge. Client will verbalize understanding of the. healthcare plan by the time of discharge. Client will demonstrate understanding of healthcare plan by the time of discharge.
41
Evaluate
was the goal successful? what was client response?
42
intervention
Provide time and privacy for communication Provide communication devices or enhancements (glasses, hearing aids, picture boards) Consult interpreter or use organization approved communication tablet Plan communication at a time of day that is most appropriate for client Provide simple instructions Ensure client is provided with educational materials in a format they can understand
43
Denotative and connotative scenario
cenario: Patient with a New Diabetes Diagnosis Context: A nurse is educating a patient, Mrs. Thompson, who has just been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. She seems withdrawn and agitated. ⸻ Nurse (therapeutic communication): “Mrs. Thompson, I know this is a lot to take in. I’m here to answer any questions you may have about your diagnosis or the changes ahead.” ⸻ Patient (denotative and connotative response): “Oh, great. So now I’m just a diabetic. Another label. Might as well put me in a box and throw away the key.” ⸻ Interpretation:     *    Denotative meaning (literal): The patient acknowledges being labeled as “a diabetic.”     *    Connotative meaning (emotional/figurative): The phrase “put me in a box and throw away the key” implies feelings of hopelessness, loss of identity, and a fear of being defined solely by her illness. The word “label” connotes stigma or judgment. ⸻ Therapeutic response by the nurse: “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed and maybe even boxed in by this diagnosis. You’re not alone, and this doesn’t define who you are. Let’s take this one step at a time together.” ⸻ This approach reflects therapeutic communication by acknowledging both the literal content and the emotional undertone, helping to validate the patient’s feelings while building trust. Would you like a similar example from a nurse’s perspective instead of a patient’s?
44
clarity and brevity scerio
Scenario: Emergency Room Triage Context: A nurse is assessing a patient who arrived in the emergency room complaining of chest pain. Time is critical, and communication must be concise and clear. ⸻ Nurse (using clarity and brevity): “Mr. Lee, I need to ask you three quick questions. When did the pain start? Where is it? And how would you rate it from 0 to 10?” ⸻ Patient: “It started about 30 minutes ago. It’s right in the center of my chest, and I’d say it’s an 8 out of 10.” ⸻ Nurse (clear and brief response): “Thank you. I’m alerting the team now. You may need an EKG and blood work right away.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Clarity: The nurse asks direct, specific questions to gather vital information efficiently.     *    Brevity: The nurse avoids unnecessary wording, focusing only on essential information needed for immediate care.     *    Therapeutic impact: The patient is more likely to cooperate and feel safe due to the nurse’s calm, purposeful communication. ⸻
45
Timing and relevance scenario
Absolutely! Here’s a nursing scenario that illustrates the use of timing and relevance, which are also essential components of therapeutic communication. ⸻ Scenario: Preparing a Patient for Surgery Context: A nurse is caring for Mr. Davis, who is scheduled for surgery in 30 minutes. He appears anxious and is reviewing his consent form. ⸻ Patient: “I’m just not sure about this. What if something goes wrong during the surgery?” ⸻ Nurse (using timing and relevance): “I understand you’re feeling nervous. Right now, the surgeon is reviewing your plan, and I’ll stay with you until it’s time to go. After surgery, we’ll monitor you closely, and you’ll have pain relief ready. Do you have a specific concern I can help with before we head in?” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Timing: The nurse chooses a moment when the patient is receptive and seeking reassurance—right before surgery, not during transport or a rushed procedure.     *    Relevance: The nurse focuses the response specifically on the patient’s current emotional state and the immediate situation, avoiding unrelated information or deep medical explanations. ⸻ This kind of communication helps reduce anxiety and builds trust at a critical time.
46
Pacing scenario
Certainly! Here’s a scenario that demonstrates pacing in therapeutic communication — that is, adjusting the rate, rhythm, and tone of communication to match the patient’s needs. ⸻ Scenario: Elderly Patient with Early Dementia Context: Mrs. Alvarez, a 78-year-old woman with early-stage dementia, is being assessed by a nurse during morning rounds. She seems confused and slow to respond. ⸻ Nurse (using appropriate pacing): (Speaking slowly and calmly, maintaining eye contact) “Good morning, Mrs. Alvarez. My name is Sarah. I’m your nurse today. I’m here to help you get ready for breakfast.” (Pauses, giving Mrs. Alvarez time to process and respond) Mrs. Alvarez: “I… I don’t remember if I ate already…” Nurse: “That’s okay. Breakfast is just starting now. Let’s wash up first, and then I’ll walk with you to the dining room.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Pacing: The nurse slows her speech and pauses intentionally, giving the patient time to process and respond without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.     *    Therapeutic impact: Adjusting communication pace helps reduce anxiety and fosters understanding, especially in cognitively impaired patients. ⸻
47
Would you like an example where a nurse fails to use appropriate pacing, for contrast?
Great — here’s a contrasting scenario where the nurse fails to use appropriate pacing, showing how it can negatively impact communication and patient care. ⸻ Scenario: Same Patient – Mrs. Alvarez with Early Dementia Context: Morning rounds again. The nurse is behind schedule and appears rushed. ⸻ Nurse (poor pacing): “Hi Mrs. Alvarez, I’m Sarah, your nurse. We need to get you cleaned up, dressed, and down to the dining room now, okay? Did you eat yet? Let’s go.” (Nurse talks quickly and immediately starts pulling back the bedsheets.) Mrs. Alvarez (confused and anxious): “Wait—who are you? Why are you rushing me? I don’t… I don’t know what’s going on!” ⸻ Why this doesn’t work:     *    Poor pacing: The nurse speaks rapidly and moves too quickly for a patient with cognitive challenges.     *    Therapeutic breakdown: The patient becomes more confused and anxious, which could lead to resistance or emotional distress.     *    Missed opportunity: No pause is given for the patient to process or respond appropriately. ⸻ This contrast highlights how crucial pacing is in building trust and promoting effective communication — especially with vulnerable populations like those with dementia.
48
intonation scenario
Certainly! Here’s a therapeutic communication scenario that focuses on intonation — the tone, pitch, and inflection used when speaking — which can greatly affect how a message is perceived. ⸻ Scenario: Teen Patient in a Pediatric Unit Context: Jordan, a 16-year-old recovering from an appendectomy, hasn’t been engaging much. The nurse notices he’s withdrawn and offers to check in. ⸻ Two versions showing the impact of intonation: ⸻ 1. Ineffective Intonation (Flat, Disinterested Tone): Nurse: “Hey Jordan. Just checking how you’re doing. Pain okay? Want anything?” (Tone is flat and rushed, lacking warmth or sincerity.) Jordan (shrugging): “No. I’m fine.” (Tone mirrors the nurse’s disinterest.) ⸻ 2. Effective Intonation (Warm, Supportive Tone): Nurse: (Gently, with a calm and encouraging tone) “Hi Jordan. I just wanted to see how you’re feeling. Is your pain a little better today? I’m here if you need anything.” Jordan (softening): “It still hurts a little… but I guess it’s better than yesterday.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Effective intonation conveys empathy, attentiveness, and support — key to therapeutic communication, especially with adolescents who are sensitive to tone.     *    Poor intonation can make a message sound dismissive or insincere, even if the words are appropriate. ⸻
49
Reinstating scenario
Certainly! Here’s a scenario that demonstrates therapeutic communication through restating — a technique where the nurse repeats the patient’s words in a slightly different way to show understanding and encourage further expression. ⸻ Scenario: Hospitalized Adult Expressing Frustration Context: Mr. Collins is recovering from a stroke and is struggling with mobility. He’s visibly frustrated during a physical therapy session. ⸻ Mr. Collins: “I can’t even walk to the bathroom without help. I feel useless.” ⸻ Nurse (restating): “You’re feeling frustrated because you need assistance with something that used to be easy for you.” ⸻ Mr. Collins: “Exactly. I was always independent. Now I have to ask for help just to stand up.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Restating shows that the nurse is actively listening and understands the emotional content of the patient’s message.     *    It encourages the patient to elaborate, helping build trust and emotional validation.     *    It avoids judgment or advice, focusing instead on empathy and presence. ⸻ Would you like a variation that uses reflection or paraphrasing as a follow-up technique?
50
reflecting scenario
Absolutely! Here’s a therapeutic communication scenario using the technique of reflecting, where the nurse focuses the conversation back to the patient’s feelings or concerns, encouraging them to explore more deeply. ⸻ Scenario: Young Adult with New Diagnosis of Depression Context: Sara, a 22-year-old patient, has just been diagnosed with clinical depression. She’s speaking with a nurse during a follow-up visit. ⸻ Sara: “I just don’t see the point in trying anymore. Nothing I do seems to matter.” ⸻ Nurse (reflecting): “It sounds like you’re feeling hopeless and questioning your worth right now.” ⸻ Sara: “Yeah… I guess I feel like I’m invisible. Like I could disappear and no one would notice.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Reflecting focuses on the emotional tone of what the patient says, rather than just the content.     *    It validates the patient’s feelings and encourages deeper self-expression without pushing advice or solutions.     *    It helps the nurse assess the patient’s emotional state and potential risk (e.g., suicidal ideation). ⸻ Would you like an example that shows how to follow reflection with a supportive intervention?
51
Paraphrasing scernio
Of course! Here’s a therapeutic communication scenario that demonstrates paraphrasing — a technique where the nurse restates the patient’s message using different words to clarify meaning and show understanding. ⸻ Scenario: Middle-Aged Patient Facing Surgery Context: Mr. Daniels is scheduled for heart bypass surgery next week. He’s talking with the nurse during pre-op education and seems uneasy. ⸻ Mr. Daniels: “I know the doctors say it’s routine, but I can’t stop thinking about what could go wrong. I’m not ready for something to happen to me.” ⸻ Nurse (paraphrasing): “You’re worried about the risks of surgery and feeling unprepared for what might happen.” ⸻ Mr. Daniels: “Exactly. Everyone keeps acting like it’s no big deal, but to me it is.” ⸻ Why this works:     *    Paraphrasing allows the nurse to check understanding while showing that they are actively listening.     *    It helps the patient feel heard and respected, often prompting them to open up further.     *    It also clarifies vague or emotionally loaded statements in a neutral, supportive way. ⸻ Would you like a quick chart summarizing the differences between paraphrasing, restating, and reflecting?
52
Exploring allows the nurse to gather more information about topics mentioned by the client.
What makes you think point A leads to Point B...