7. Communication 3

Question 1

What are the learning objectives for Module 7?

Answer 1

• Understand the therapeutic relationship and professional boundaries
• Compare different communication techniques
• Apply the principles of therapeutic communication and skills of understanding to specific situations

These objectives guide the learning process in communication within a therapeutic context.

Question 2

What are the three phases of a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship?

Answer 2

• Orientation Phase
• Working Phase
• Termination Phase

Each phase has distinct goals and activities that facilitate the therapeutic relationship.

Question 3

What are the three categories of questions used in therapeutic communication?

Answer 3

• Open-ended questions
• Focused questions
• Closed-ended questions

These categories help guide the conversation and elicit appropriate responses from patients.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of active listening in nursing?

Answer 4

Enhance trust, demonstrate respect, and facilitate a deeper understanding of the patient’s experience

Active listening involves both verbal and nonverbal communication skills.

Question 5

What does the acronym SOLER represent?

Answer 5

• S: Sit facing the patient
• O: Keep an Open posture
• L: Lean toward the patient
• E: Establish and maintain intermittent Eye contact
• R: Relax

SOLER is a framework for nonverbal active listening.

Question 6

Name four active listening responses and their purpose.

Answer 6

• Clarification: Asking a brief question to better understand a message
• Restatement: Repeating the patient’s words to validate or clarify a statement
• Paraphrasing: Transforming the patient’s message into your own words
• Reflection: Focusing on the emotional part of a message to show empathy

These responses help in understanding and validating the patient’s feelings.

Question 7

How does summarization differ from paraphrasing?

Answer 7

Summarization pulls together several ideas and feelings from a longer interaction

Paraphrasing checks for understanding of a specific statement.

Question 8

Why is silence a powerful therapeutic technique?

Answer 8

Allows the patient time to think and reflect

It demonstrates patience and a willingness to listen without rushing.

Question 9

What is the difference between sharing observations and making assumptions?

Answer 9

• Sharing observations: Commenting on what you see without judgment
• Making assumptions: Drawing unwarranted conclusions

This distinction is crucial for maintaining a non-defensive environment for the patient.

Question 10

How should a nurse use self-disclosure in a therapeutic relationship?

Answer 10

Sparingly and only when relevant to benefit the patient

The focus must remain on the patient, not the nurse’s own story.

Question 11

Name three non-therapeutic (or blocking) communication techniques.

Answer 11

• False Reassurance
• Giving Advice
• Asking Personal Questions

These techniques can hinder effective communication and patient care.

Question 12

What is the importance of using plain language in patient communication?

Answer 12

Ensures patient comprehension and participation in their care

Avoiding medical jargon is essential for informed consent.

Question 13

What is validation in therapeutic communication?

Answer 13

A special form of feedback to ensure shared understanding of a message

It checks that word meanings and interpretations are aligned.

Question 14

How can a nurse use feedback effectively?

Answer 14

• Specific
• Directed to behavior
• Honest
• Reflective

Effective feedback should focus on topics the patient can control.