Chapter 008: Themes of Communication

Define Nurse-Patient Communication

Two-way process focused entirely on the patient’s needs and problems

Speech & behavior consideration for Nurse-Patient Communication?

Verbal & nonverbal communication must match to avoid confusing the patient

Define content theme

Examines the underlying messages regarding the patient’s problems & perception of self

Define mood theme

Relates to feelings & affect conveyed by patient while discussing concerns

Define interaction theme

Examines the patients relationship to others

Define incongruent mood theme

When the affect does not match the content theme

Define proxemics

The way people perceive and use environmental, social, and personal space during interactions

Environmental barriers to communication?

Privacy, temperature, furniture, noise levels, & proxemics

Physical barriers to communication?

Speech impediments, sensory limitations (i.e. hearing loss), developmental disabilities, & pain

Kinesic (body language) barriers to communication?

Mannerisms, gestures, eye movement, & facial expressions

Define social communication

Spontaneous interactions involving equal disclosure that meet personal needs of both parties; may or may not be confidential & listener may not be objective

Define therapeutic communication

Planned, patient-centered interactions directed by the professional strictly to meet patient’s needs; listener is objective & conversation is confidential

Define Therapeutic Use of Self

Nurse remains objective & open to patient’s problems, utilizing empathy, self-awareness, & authenticity