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Describe a Situation from Your Practice Related to Communication Between Nurse and Patient

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The purpose of this essay is to describe a situation from practice related to communication between nurse and patient. The Department of Health (2003) defines communication as ‘a process that involves a meaningful exchange between at least two people to convey facts, needs, opinions, thoughts, feelings and other information through both verbal and non-verbal means.’

Communication occurs when a person (the source) sends a message via a particular medium (the channel) so it is received by a recipient (the receiver) (Roper, Logan and Tierney, 2002).

Since communication is such an integral part of everyday life, it is hardly surprising that it is emphasized as a central component in the delivery of care (LeMay, 2004).

The healthcare …show more content…

Research has proven that good communication between a healthcare professional and their patients results in improved patient compliance with treatment and improved recovery rates (British Journal of Nursing, 1998).

The nurse positions herself directly opposite Harry. McDonnell (2002) states ‘it is important to face your hearing impaired patient as seeing you clearly will help them to understand all information given.’ The nurse begins by asking Harry various questions. Faulkner (2000) states there are two types of questions; open and closed. Open questions allow the patient to express their feelings whereas closed questions restrict responses to simple one word answers. The nurse allowed Harry to take control of the discussion by using open ended questions. These allowed Harry to expand on what feelings he was trying to convey.

Harry appeared comfortable and happy to answer the questions. He showed this by maintaining good eye contact and smiling. ‘The face is the most important focal point for non-verbal communicating as it is the most expressive part of the body’ (Stewart and Logan, 1997). The nurse also maintained good eye contact. ‘This helps the patient to feel like their problems are of interest therefore they are more likely to discuss any issues on their mind’ (Faulkner, 2000).

At times during the discussion Harry appeared reluctant to talk about some issues. To encourage Harry to express his

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