Therapeutic Communication and Active Listening

A set of flashcards designed to help students master the concepts of therapeutic communication and active listening as part of their nursing education.

What is the focus of therapeutic communication?

To develop an effective interpersonal nurse-client relationship that supports well-being.

What does active listening consist of?

Hearing a client's message, decoding its meaning, and providing feedback.

What is unconditional positive regard?

Accepting and valuing clients without judgment.

What distinguishes hearing from listening?

Hearing is a physical act, while listening is an active, engaged process.

What is the primary goal of a therapeutic relationship?

To enhance the well-being of the client.

What does the acronym SURETY stand for in non-verbal communication?

Sit, Uncross, Relax, Eye contact, Touch, Your intuition.

How can silence be used effectively in communication?

It allows both the client and nurse to reflect on what has been said.

What are the different types of communication barriers?

Cultural differences, emotional barriers, lack of knowledge, environmental distractions.

What is empathy?

Understanding and sharing the feelings of another.

How does non-verbal communication account for the majority of interactions?

Approximately 90% of communication is non-verbal.

What is the purpose of open-ended questions?

To allow clients to direct the flow of conversation.

What does therapeutic communication aim to do?

Establish, maintain, re-establish, and terminate the nurse-client relationship.

What should nurses do to demonstrate active listening?

Provide feedback and validate clients' feelings.

What are common communication pitfalls?

Giving advice, ignoring emotional responses, and interrupting.

What is the goal of the OLDCARTSS framework?

To guide assessment questions about a client's presenting concern.

What are the main phases of the therapeutic relationship?

Orientation, working phase, and termination.

How can clinical judgement apply to the OLDCARTSS framework?

It requires adapting questions based on the client's responses.

What is the importance of client privacy and confidentiality?

To build trust and ensure clients feel safe sharing sensitive information.

What is the relevance of noticing in clinical judgement?

It's the initial observation that guides further assessment.

What should a nurse do when a client exhibits distress during an interview?

Address immediate patient needs and consider deferring the interview.

What are the verbal techniques of empathy?

Reflecting feelings, using paraphrasing, and validating emotions.

What is the impact of poor communication on the nurse-client relationship?

It can lead to lack of trust and negative patient outcomes.

What is the role of documentation in the assessment process?

To provide a clear record of the client's health status and interventions.

What type of data can nurses collect from clients?

Subjective data (client's self-reported symptoms) and objective data (observable signs).

What is the significance of congruency in communication?

Words and feelings must align to convey authenticity.

How are therapeutic communication skills developed?

Through practice and commitment to enhancing interactions.

What is a qualitative characteristic of verbal communication?

It includes the tone, pitch, and clarity of spoken words.

What should nurses avoid when interacting with clients?

Interrupting, being judgmental, or using jargon.

How does the therapeutic communication process ensure quality care?

It fosters strong relationships that promote client engagement.

What is one reason clients may withhold information?

Fear of judgment from the healthcare provider.

What is the difference between subjective and objective data?

Subjective data is reported by the client; objective data is measured or observed.

How can active listening improve patient outcomes?

By making patients feel heard, which improves trust and communication.

What is a common mistake during health history interviews?

Asking too many closed-ended or focused questions.

What are the key components of the client interview process?

Pre-interaction phase, orientation, working phase, and termination.

How is compassion defined in nursing?

A virtuous response that addresses a person's suffering through understanding and action.

What should be done when collecting objective data?

Use sensory observations during physical assessments.

Why is self-awareness important for nurses?

It helps recognize one's own biases and improve communication skills.

What does the term 'active dimension' refer to in helping?

Addressing obstacles and facilitating positive changes.

How can nurses encourage clients to communicate openly?

By showing genuine interest and respecting their feelings.

What does therapeutic communication rely on to be effective?

Empathy, concern, and a solid understanding of communication techniques.

What is the impact of emotional responses on clinical practice?

They can greatly influence patient interactions and overall care.

Why is it essential to use clear language with clients?

To avoid misunderstandings and ensure effective communication.

How does one establish rapport with clients?

Through empathy, active listening, and establishing trust.

What is the significance of non-verbal cues in communication?

They often convey more than words alone.

How often should reflection and feedback be integrated into communication?

Continuously, to improve understanding and relations.

What benefits do clients gain from effective therapeutic communication?

Enhanced feelings of safety, engagement, and care.

How should nurses approach difficult subjects in conversation?

With sensitivity, openness, and non-judgmental attitudes.

What is one way to facilitate better client participation in their care?

Encouraging clients to express their needs and preferences.

What overall goal does therapeutic communication strive toward?

To nurture a supportive environment that fosters patient well-being.