Video Notes: Chapter 3 - The Interview

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the video notes on Chapter 3: The Interview, including phases, COLDSPA, nonverbal and verbal communication, special considerations, and interpreter use.

Introductory phase

Phase where the nurse introduces themselves, explains the interview’s purpose, describes the types of questions, explains why notes are taken, assures confidentiality, confirms client comfort, answers questions, and establishes trusting verbal and nonverbal communication.

Working phase

Phase that gathers past health history, family history, review of body systems, lifestyle and developmental factors, and uses listening, observation, critical thinking, and collaboration with the client to identify problems and goals.

Summary and closing phase

Phase in which the nurse summarizes information, validates problems and goals, discusses possible plans, and checks if anything else concerns the client.

COLDSPA mnemonic

A framework for pain history: Character, Onset, Location, Duration, Severity, Pattern, Associated factors (and aggravating/alleviating factors).

Biographical data

Basic demographic information collected (e.g., name, age, gender) to identify and contextualize the client.

Reasons for seeking care

The patient’s motivation for the visit and what brought them to seek care.

History of present health concern (HPI)

Detailed description of the current health issue using COLDSPA components.

Character (pain quality)

The quality of pain (e.g., sharp, dull, throbbing).

Onset

When the pain or symptom began.

Location

Where the pain is located; whether it radiates or moves.

Duration

How long the pain lasts; continuous or intermittent.

Severity

Pain intensity on a scale (e.g., 0–10) and its impact on functioning.

Pattern

What makes the pain better or worse; timing and triggers.

Associated factors

Other symptoms or effects on functioning (e.g., ADLs) accompanying the pain.

Nonverbal communication

Communication aspects beyond words that affect nurse–patient interaction (appearance, demeanor, facial expression, attitude, silence, listening).

Appearance

How the client presents physically and visually during the interview.

Demeanor

The client’s overall mood and behavior during the encounter.

Facial expression

The face’s conveyance of emotions and responses during the interview.

Attitude

Disposition of the nurse and client that can influence interaction.

Silence

Use of pauses as a communication tool to encourage responses and reflection.

Listening

Active, attentive listening as a key component of effective communication.

Nonverbal communication to avoid

Avoid excessive or insufficient eye contact, distraction and distance, and standing during the interview.

Biased or leading questions

Verbal questions that suggest a preferred answer and should be avoided.

Rushing through the interview

Moving too quickly through questions, risking missed information.

Reading the questions

Asking questions exactly as written without adapting to the client’s responses.

Gerontologic variations

Adaptations in interviewing for older adults, accounting for aging changes and needs.

Cultural variations

Adjusting interviewing approach for cultural differences and language barriers.

Emotional variations

Recognizing and accommodating different emotional responses during interviewing.

Speak to the client first with family present

When a client is elderly with family present, address the client initially and involve the family as appropriate.

Using an interpreter

Arrange for a qualified interpreter when language barriers exist; avoid using family members as interpreters.

Interview with non-English speaker (28-year-old)

Use an interpreter or translator to obtain accurate information.

Approach for a crying, anxious client

Remain calm, speak softly, allow time to express feelings, and provide supportive listening.

Pre-interview record review

Review the medical record before speaking with the client to inform the interview and plan care.

Confidentiality assurance

Explain that interview information is confidential to help build trust.

Interview question types

Open-ended and closed-ended questions; explain the types to the client.