2. Definition of Communication
Communication is “an interaction between 2
or more persons that involves the
exchange of information between a
sender and a receiver” (p. 23).
It involves the expression of emotions,
ideas, and thoughts through verbal and
non-verbal signals.
7. Nonverbal Communication
• All behaviors that express messages without the
use of words
• Body movement
• Physical appearance
• Personal space
• Touch
• Body language
• Should be consistent with spoken word
• Cultural considerations
8. Key Components of Effective
Communication
• Self-awareness
• Empathy
• Genuineness
• Respect for the client
12. Orientation Phase
• Learn about the client and any concerns
or needs
• Roles are defined
• Collect information
• Establish goals
• Clarify misunderstandings
• Establish rapport
13. Working Phase
• Client and nurse are ready to work toward
reaching set goals
• Client anxiety is reduced by the nurse’s
nonjudgmental, supportive approach
• Client is able to respond and participate in
plan of care
15. Essential and Influencing Variables
• The culture, experience, coping ability,
and psychopathology of the client
combined with the culture, experience,
knowledge of psychopathology, and
guidance skills of the nurse influence all
communication, verbal and nonverbal,
between the two.
16. The Anxious Client
• Anxiety can be the result of many
different factors
• Can interfere with communication
• Can interfere with care and treatment
• Extreme anxiety can interfere with
comprehension, attention, and problem-
solving skills
• Anxiety is contagious!
17. Stages of Anxiety
• MILD
• Increased auditory
and visual perception
• Increased awareness
of relationships
• Increased alertness
• Able to problem
solve
• MODERATE
• Selective inattention
• Decreased perceptual
field
• Focus only on
relevant information
• Muscle tension;
diaphoresis
