Therapeutic communication is the foundation of mental health nursing. It is how mental health nurses build therapeutic rapport. Watch the video below and answer each question that follows it. https://youtu.be/W1RY_72O_LQ 1.) What forms of verbal and nonverbal communication did the nurse use incorrectly? 2.) What would you do differently? 3.) How does therapeutic communication affect patient care? MUST HAVE
Therapeutic communication is a key aspect of mental health nursing that serves as the foundation for building therapeutic rapport with patients. It involves the use of both verbal and nonverbal communication techniques to support the emotional well-being and recovery of individuals in a mental health care setting. In this context, the video provided offers an opportunity to analyze the nurse’s use of therapeutic communication and identify any potential areas for improvement.
1) In terms of verbal communication, there are a few instances where the nurse in the video could be considered as using ineffective techniques. Firstly, the nurse interrupts the patient while she is expressing her concerns. Interrupting the patient’s narrative can hinder the therapeutic process and make the patient feel unheard. It is important for mental health nurses to actively listen to their patients and allow them to express their thoughts and feelings uninterrupted.
Secondly, the nurse’s choice of words can be seen as somewhat harsh or judgmental. For example, when the patient mentions her feelings of guilt, the nurse responds with, “Well, you must have done something wrong.” This response may come across as unsupportive or dismissive, potentially causing the patient to feel even more distressed. Mental health nurses should aim to offer empathy and understanding rather than making assumptions or passing judgment.
Nonverbally, the nurse displayed some ineffective communication techniques as well. For instance, maintaining appropriate eye contact is important in building trust and conveying genuine interest. In the video, the nurse often looks away or engages in other distracting behaviors, which may give the impression of disinterest or lack of attentiveness. Additionally, the nurse’s body language appears somewhat closed off, with crossed arms and a tendency to lean away from the patient. These nonverbal cues can create barriers to effective communication and hinder the establishment of a therapeutic relationship.
2) To enhance therapeutic communication in this scenario, a few adjustments could be made. Firstly, the nurse should strive to actively listen and allow the patient to fully express herself without interruptions. This promotes a sense of trust and demonstrates empathy towards the patient’s concerns. Additionally, it would be beneficial for the nurse to choose words carefully and avoid making assumptions or passing judgments. Instead, offering non-judgmental responses, such as “Tell me more about how you’re feeling” or “I’m here to support you,” can encourage open and honest communication.
Nonverbally, the nurse could aim to maintain appropriate eye contact and engage in behaviors that signal attentiveness, such as leaning slightly forward or nodding in response to what the patient is saying. Creating a physically open posture, without crossing arms, can also contribute to a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. These adjustments in nonverbal communication can help foster a therapeutic environment where patients feel seen, heard, and respected.
3) The impact of therapeutic communication on patient care is significant. Effective therapeutic communication allows mental health nurses to better understand their patients’ struggles, needs, and goals. It empowers patients to express their emotions, fears, and concerns in a safe and supportive environment. This, in turn, facilitates the collaborative development of individualized care plans and interventions that address the specific needs of each patient.
Therapeutic communication in mental health nursing also cultivates a sense of trust and builds a strong therapeutic rapport between the nurse and the patient. When patients feel understood and valued, they are more likely to actively engage in their treatment, follow prescribed interventions, and participate in their own recovery process. Moreover, therapeutic communication helps reduce stigma and promotes a patient-centered approach to care, focusing on the individual’s unique strengths, preferences, and goals.
In conclusion, therapeutic communication is a critical aspect of mental health nursing that plays a pivotal role in supporting patients’ emotional well-being and recovery. It involves both verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, aimed at fostering trust, understanding, and collaboration. By actively listening, using empathetic language, and maintaining open and attentive body language, mental health nurses can create a therapeutic environment where patients feel safe, supported, and empowered to strive towards their goals.