Importance of Effective Nurse-Patient Communication in Therapeutic Relationship and Patient Safety

Running head: NURSING
Nursing
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Author’s note

1NURSING
Therapeutic nurse-patient relationship is defined as a relationship that is based on trust
and respect, non-judgmental attitude and taking all steps to meet physical, spiritual and
emotional needs of patient. This form of therapeutic relationship is fostered by the
implementation of effective nurse-patient communication process. This essay aims to explain the
benefit effective nurse-patient communication is necessary on therapeutic nurse-patient
relationship and patient safety and apply the concept of verbal and non-verbal communication,
patient centred care and documentation in the case scenario of Helen Henderson, a 43 year old
female Catholic, who is not very active and leads a stressful lifestyle. She feels very tired and
has come to a registered nurse to know about healthy eating and changes needed in her lifestyle.
The essay demonstrate the effectiveness of verbal and non-verbal communication technique on
completing appropriate assessment of Helen and understanding her key health concerns. By the
application of patient-centred care principle, the essay demonstrates the benefit of considering
patient’s preference on patient satisfaction with care. The technique of effective documentation
shows that accurate recording of patient information promotes safety of patient.
The impact of verbal and non-verbal communication processes between nurse and patient
shows how nurse can develop therapeutic relationship with patient. The significance of effective
nurse-patient communication is that it strengthens nurse-patient relationship by the proper
exchange of information and identifying all immediate needs and concern of patient that could
affect their health outcomes (Hill, Hall & Glew, 2014). For example, in the case scenario of
Helen Andersen, who is not very active and has a stressful life, he wants suggestion from nurse
regarding how to change his lifestyle. The nurse who is involved in assessing this patient can
use verbal and non-verbal communication skills to identify the factors that influence Helen’s
ability to engage in active life style. This would involve displaying both verbal and non-verbal

2NURSING
communication skills to get all necessary information from patient. To ensure that Helen is
comfortable and she has complete trust on nurse, the nurse needs to first engage in rapport
building with Helen by introducing her to patient and explaining the purpose of the session
(Murray & McCrone, 2015). Secondly, according to Glew, Hillege and Hardy (2014), the nurse
needs to use verbal communication skills such as clear language and proper method of inquiry to
understand barriers in life that prevent her from physical activity. In addition, use of non-verbal
skills by nurse like using touch to provide reassurance, share warmth and emotional support can
enhance self-esteem and increase motivation of patient to bring positive changes in her lifestyle.
While using non-verbal means of communication, it is important for nurse to respect patient’s
dignity and cultural values because according to NMBA standard 2, engaging in therapeutic
relationship involves communicating effectively and respecting patient’s dignity and cultural
values (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, 2016). Hence, this form of communication
skill will help to identify patient’s concern, develop therapeutic relationship and plan
individualized care plan for patient.
Nurse’s interaction with patient at vital point of care helps to fulfil person-centred care
values and understand all preferences of patient regarding their care process and treatment. As
active communication and listening skills makes patient comfortable and increase their trust in
the care provided, this helps to develop therapeutic relationship with patient (Kourkouta &
Papathanasiou 2014). The main advantage of this form of therapeutic communication with
patient is that it not only increases patient’s engagement in care but also promotes adherence
with treatment (Delaney, 2018). Hence, any likelihood of patient safety issues or ethical concerns
due to violation of patient’s autonomy or preferences is minimized by the nurse’s capability to
engage in effective communication process using patient centred approach (Levett-Jones, 2016).