Nursing Therapeutic Communication

Therapeutic communication in nursing is the purposeful use of verbal and non-verbal techniques to build a professional relationship with patients, promote emotional support, and help them cope with illness or stress.

Key Characteristics:

·       Patient-centered

·       Empathetic and nonjudgmental

·       Goal-oriented and purposeful

·       Active listening is essential

Examples of Therapeutic Communication Techniques:

Active listening

Example: Nodding, saying “I see,” maintaining eye contact

Purpose: Shows you are fully present

Using silence

Example: Staying quiet while the patient gathers thoughts

Purpose: Encourages expression

Open-ended questions/ Exploring

Example: “How are you feeling today?”

Purpose: Promotes the sharing of feelings

Restating

Example: “You’re feeling scared about your surgery?”

Purpose: Shows understanding and validation

Clarification

Example: “Can you tell me more about what you meant by that?”

Purpose: Prevents misunderstandings

Reflection

Example: “It sounds like you’re frustrated.”

Purpose: Helps patients explore emotions

Offering General Leads

Example: Go on.”, “I see.”

Purpose: Encourages the patient to express thoughts or feeling. Promotes open dialogue without pressure. Builds trust and a sense of being heard

Offering self

Example: “I’m here if you want to talk.”

Purpose: Builds trust

Summarizing

Example: “Let’s review what we talked about today…”

Purpose: Ensures understanding and closure

Non-Therapeutic communication (please avoid):

·       Giving advice: “You should...”

·       Minimizing feelings: “It’s not that bad.”

·       Asking “Why?” Can sound judgmental

·       Changing the subject: Dismisses patient concerns

Purpose in Nursing:

·       Builds trust and rapport

·       Enhances patient cooperation

·       Helps identify emotional needs

·       Supports healing and well-being