Principles of Effective Communication
Principles of Effective Communication ( 6 Questions)
A client is admitted to the hospital with chest pain and shortness of breath. The nurse notices that the client speaks English with a heavy accent and uses some unfamiliar words. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to ensure effective communication?
Ask the client to speak slower and louder. - This is an incorrect action, as asking the client to speak slower and louder can be perceived as rude or disrespectful by the client. It can also increase anxiety and stress for both parties, and impair communication.
Use a professional interpreter if available.
Rationale: The nurse should use a professional interpreter if available when communicating with a client who speaks a different language or has limited English proficiency, as this ensures accurate and culturally sensitive communication. The interpreter should be trained in medical terminology and confidentiality, and should not be a family member or friend of the client.
Avoid asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. - This is an incorrect action, as avoiding questions that require more than a yes or no answer can limit the amount of information obtained from the client, and prevent the nurse from assessing the client's needs, preferences, and concerns. The nurse should ask open-ended questions that encourage elaboration, clarification, and feedback from the client.
Assume that the client understands everything the nurse says. - This is an incorrect action, as assuming that the client understands everything the nurse says can lead to miscommunication, errors, and adverse outcomes. The nurse should verify the client's understanding by asking them to repeat back or demonstrate what they learned, and provide written materials in their preferred language if possible.
Correct answer: B) Use a professional interpreter if available.
Rationale: The nurse should use a professional interpreter if available when communicating with a client who speaks a different language or has limited English proficiency, as this ensures accurate and culturally sensitive communication. The interpreter should be trained in medical terminology and confidentiality, and should not be a family member or friend of the client.
Incorrect options:
A) Ask the client to speak slower and louder. - This is an incorrect action, as asking the client to speak slower and louder can be perceived as rude or disrespectful by the client. It can also increase anxiety and stress for both parties, and impair communication.
C) Avoid asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. - This is an incorrect action, as avoiding questions that require more than a yes or no answer can limit the amount of information obtained from the client, and prevent the nurse from assessing the client's needs, preferences, and concerns. The nurse should ask open-ended questions that encourage elaboration, clarification, and feedback from the client.
D) Assume that the client understands everything the nurse says. - This is an incorrect action, as assuming that the client understands everything the nurse says can lead to miscommunication, errors, and adverse outcomes. The nurse should verify the client's understanding by asking them to repeat back or demonstrate what they learned, and provide written materials in their preferred language if possible.