Therapeutic Communication and Interview Techniques (Video Notes)

A set of practice flashcards in a QUESTION_AND_ANSWER format covering humor, interviewing techniques, question types, empathy, barriers, therapeutic relationships, and patient-centered care from the video notes.

What is a key effect of using humor in a therapeutic relationship?

Humor can release psychological energy and enhance rapport when used correctly; if used inappropriately, it can be destructive.

Why is it important to ask the right questions during patient interviews?

To gather accurate health history, establish what the patient needs, and build a foundation for care by asking specific, purposeful questions.

List major types of interview questions discussed.

Open-ended, closed-ended, validating, clarifying, restating, reflective, sequencing, and direct questioning.

Differentiate open-ended vs closed-ended questions.

Open-ended questions invite narratives and multiple possible answers; closed-ended questions seek definite or yes/no answers.

How should you frame the question about future goals to focus on professional life?

Ask about where they see themselves in five years in their professional life, not just personally.

Why is explaining 'why' you are asking questions important?

It helps patients understand the purpose, increases openness, and improves data accuracy.

What are qualities that promote effective communication in healthcare?

Warmth, friendliness, openness, respect, honesty, authenticity, trust, caring, confidence.

How do sympathy and empathy differ?

Sympathy is feeling concern for another; empathy is feeling with the person and understanding their experience, which fosters connection.

What are the four qualities of empathy as described by Theresa Wiseman?

Perspective taking, staying out of judgment, recognizing emotion in others, and communicating that recognition.

Describe the three-phase model of therapeutic relationships.

Orientation (trust and identity), Working (active participation toward goals), Termination (discipline/wrap-up when the encounter ends).

What are common barriers to communication in healthcare?

Failure to perceive the patient as human, failure to listen, nontherapeutic comments and questions, changing the subject, false reassurance, impaired communication, language barriers, and cultural differences.

What is the difference between denotative and connotative meanings?

Denotative: literal meaning of a word; Connotative: associated meanings and emotions, which are subjective.

Why are boundaries important in nurse-patient relationships?

To maintain professionalism, protect patient-centered goals, and prevent personal information from interfering with care.

Why is trust important in the nurse-patient relationship?

Trust leads to more information from patients and lowers legal risk; patients participate more fully in their care.

How should you orient patients with sensory impairments?

Identify yourself, face the patient, speak directly, explain sounds they will hear, keep call light accessible, and adapt for vision/hearing limitations.

How should communication be adapted for non-English speaking patients?

Always use a certified interpreter; never rely on family; use video interpreters when available; use simple sentences and pause for interpretation.

What are effective strategies for communicating with patients with cognitive impairment?

Use simple, concrete language; offer choices; give time to respond; avoid open-ended questions; be patient and consider developmental level.

What is the recommended approach to call lights and bed safety?

Ensure call lights are easily reachable; verify the bed is plugged in; orient the patient to sounds; maintain a safe environment.

What roles can a nurse play in patient education and advocacy?

Teacher, caregiver, advocate, and sometimes patient surrogate; speak up for patient safety and patient-centered care; maintain professional boundaries.