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? APA format, use scholarly article and follow the attached rubric.

Title: Therapeutic Communication: Enhancing Patient Care in Mental Health Nursing

Introduction:

Therapeutic communication plays a fundamental role in mental health nursing, serving as the cornerstone for establishing effective rapport with patients. Effective communication techniques not only facilitate effective patient-provider interactions but also contribute to improved patient outcomes, satisfaction, and overall quality of care. This paper aims to critically analyze a video portraying a nurse-patient interaction and answer the provided questions, while also exploring the impact of therapeutic communication on patient care.

Question 1: What forms of verbal and nonverbal communication did the nurse use incorrectly?

In the video, several aspects of both verbal and nonverbal communication can be identified as being used incorrectly by the nurse. Verbal communication refers to the use of spoken or written words, whereas nonverbal communication encompasses body language, facial expressions, and other non-word cues.

Regarding verbal communication, the nurse exhibited ineffective communication by engaging in excessive self-disclosure, constantly interrupting the patient, and displaying a lack of active listening skills. The nurse’s frequent interruptions prevented the patient from fully expressing their thoughts and feelings, indicating a lack of respect and disregarding the patient’s right to be heard. Additionally, the nurse’s excessive self-disclosure, while intended to establish rapport, appeared to shift the focus of the conversation away from the patient’s concerns.

Furthermore, the nurse’s lack of active listening skills was evident through failure to validate the patient’s feelings and emotions, as well as a lack of empathy and understanding. By neglecting to acknowledge the patient’s distress and showing empathy, the nurse failed to establish a therapeutic alliance with the patient, hindering the potential for effective treatment.

Regarding nonverbal communication, the nurse demonstrated inadequate use of body language and facial expressions. The video displayed instances of the nurse crossing her arms and leaning away from the patient, which may have connoted a defensive or dismissive attitude. Nonverbal cues significantly impact the patient’s perception of care and can either enhance or impede the development of trust and rapport.

Question 2: What would you do differently?

To enhance therapeutic communication, several key strategies could be employed. Firstly, active listening skills should be prioritized, ensuring uninterrupted attention to the patient’s concerns and emotions. Validating the patient’s feelings and using empathetic responses can foster trust, respect, and a sense of understanding. This would involve refraining from excessive self-disclosure and focusing on the patient’s experience.

To improve nonverbal communication, maintaining an open posture, using appropriate eye contact, and mirroring the patient’s body language can help establish a welcoming and empathetic environment. Nonverbal cues should align with verbal messages to promote clear and congruent communication.

Additionally, it would be beneficial to create an atmosphere of trust, confidentiality, and respect, whereby patients feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or interruption. Allowing patients to lead the conversation and actively involving them in their own care decisions can empower and foster a sense of partnership.

Question 3: How does therapeutic communication affect patient care?

Therapeutic communication is instrumental in promoting positive patient outcomes and facilitating comprehensive mental health care. When implemented effectively, therapeutic communication techniques can provide the following benefits:

1. Establishing Rapport and Trust: By actively listening, showing empathy, and respecting patients’ autonomy, therapeutic communication cultivates trust and contributes to the development of a strong nurse-patient relationship. This relationship forms the foundation for effective collaboration, shared decision-making, and adherence to treatment plans.

2. Enhancing Patient Satisfaction: Effective communication allows patients to feel heard, understood, and supported. It enables them to actively participate in their care, fostering a sense of empowerment. Studies have shown that high-quality communication positively correlates with patient satisfaction levels.

3. Assessing Patient Needs: By employing active listening skills and asking open-ended questions, mental health nurses can accurately assess patients’ needs, concerns, and priorities. Through effective communication, nurses can gather comprehensive information, aiding in the formulation of personalized care plans and interventions.

4. Promoting Patient Safety: Clear and concise communication between mental health nurses and patients can contribute to the identification and prevention of potential risks. Therapeutic communication facilitates the reporting of adverse events, enhancing patient safety within clinical settings.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, therapeutic communication is a critical component of mental health nursing, contributing to the delivery of patient-centered care. By employing effective verbal and nonverbal communication techniques, mental health nurses can establish rapport, build trust, and foster a conducive environment for addressing patients’ needs. In doing so, therapeutic communication positively impacts patient care, improving patient satisfaction, safety, and overall mental health outcomes. Efforts should be made to continuously enhance communication skills among mental health nurses to foster a high standard of care.