Nurse-Patient Relationship, Legal
Aspects
What it Communication? - Answera two-way process involving the sending and
receiving of messages
In the Communication process what is the sender? - Answerthe person or group who
wishes to communicate a message to another
In the Communication process what is the message? - Answerwhat is said or written,
the body language that accompanies the words
In the Communication process what is the Response/Feedback? - Answermessage
that the receiver returns to the sender. can be either verbal, nonverbal, or both
In verbal communication what is Pace and intonation? - AnswerThe manner of
speech, as in the rate or rhythm and tone, will modify the feeling and impact of a
message
In verbal communication what is Simplicity? - Answerincludes the use of commonly
understood word
In verbal communication what is CLARITY AND BREVITY ? - Answermessage that is
direct and simple will be effective. saying precisely what is meant, and using the fewest
words necessary
In verbal communication what is TIMING AND RELEVANCE? - Answerthe messages
need to relate to the person or to the person's interests and concerns; at the appropriate
moment.
In verbal communication what is ADAPTABILITY? - AnswerWhen the nurse
understands they need to alter spoken messages in accordance with behavioral cues
from the client.
Example: A nurse who usually smiles, appears cheerful, and greets notices that the
client is not smiling and appears distressed. It is important for the nurse to then modify
their tone of speech and express concern by facial expression while moving toward the
client
In verbal communication what is Credibility? - Answerworthiness of belief,
trustworthiness, and reliability.
, By being consistent, dependable, and honest.
What is nonverbal communication ? - Answerbody language, includes gestures, body
movements, use of touch, and physical appearance. Tells others more about what a
person is feeling than what is actually being said, because its controlled less
consciously.
In observing nonverbal communication in a patient what's the significance of Personal
appearance? - Answerit conveys social and financial status, culture, religion, group
association, and self-concept.
Example: a person known for immaculate grooming becomes careless about
appearance, the nurse may suspect a loss of self-esteem or a physical illness
In observing nonverbal communication in a patient what's the significance of Posture
and gait? - Answerways people walk and carry themselves are often reliable
indicators of self-concept, current mood, and health. Erect posture and an active,
purposeful stride suggest a feeling of well-being. Slouched posture and a slow, shuffling
gait suggest depression or physical discomfort. Tense posture and a rapid, determined
gait suggest anxiety or anger. EX: "You look like it really hurts you to move. I'm
wondering how your pain is and if you might need something to make you more
comfortable?"
In observing nonverbal communication in a patient what's the significance of Facial
expressions? - AnswerShows feelings of surprise, fear, anger, disgust, happiness,
and sadness can be conveyed by facial expressions. Although the face may express
the person's genuine emotions, it is also possible to control these
In observing nonverbal communication in a patient what's the significance Gestures? -
AnswerHand and body gestures may emphasize and clarify the spoken word, or they
may occur without words to indicate a particular feeling or to give a sign. A father
awaiting information about his daughter in surgery may wring his hands, tap his foot,
pick at his nails, or pace back and forth.
What are Developmental Factors that Influence the the Communication Process? -
Answerage (teen vs older adult)
gender (male vs female)
Educational Background ( reading, writing, intellectual)
What are Physical Factors that Influence the the Communication Process? -
AnswerDistance patients prefer durning interactions.
. Intimate 0 to 1 1/2 feet (touching- bathing, head to toe asessment)_
Personal: 1 1/2 to 4 feet ( discussing issues with patient)
Social: 4 to 12 feet (visitors, md's talking to pt)