Principles of Effective Communication
Principles of Effective Communication ( 6 Questions)
A nurse is preparing to discharge a client who has diabetes mellitus. The nurse provides education on self-care measures, such as blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration, diet, exercise, and foot care. Which of the following statements by the nurse demonstrates effective communication?
"Do you have any questions about what I just told you?" - This is an ineffective statement,
as it implies that the nurse expects the client to have questions, which may discourage them from
asking or expressing their concerns. It also puts the burden of communication on the client, rather
than on the nurse. A better way to phrase this question is "What questions do you have about what
I just told you?"
"How do you feel about managing your diabetes at home?" - This is an ineffective statement,
as it is too vague and broad, and may not elicit specific or useful information from the client. It also
focuses on the client's feelings, rather than on their knowledge, skills, and behaviors. A better way to
phrase this question is "How confident are you in managing your diabetes at home?"
"What are some of the challenges you face in managing your diabetes?"
Rationale: The nurse demonstrates effective communication by asking the client what are some of
the challenges they face in managing their diabetes, as this shows empathy, respect, and interest in
the client's perspective. It also allows the nurse to identify any barriers or difficulties that may affect
the client's adherence to self-care measures, and provide appropriate support and resources.
"You need to follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications." - This is an ineffective
statement, as it is authoritative and paternalistic, and may undermine the client's autonomy and
motivation. It also focuses on the negative consequences of non-adherence, rather than on the positive
benefits of adherence. A better way to phrase this statement is "Following these instructions will help
you control your blood glucose and prevent complications."
Correct answer: C) "What are some of the challenges you face in managing your diabetes?"
Rationale: The nurse demonstrates effective communication by asking the client what are some of
the challenges they face in managing their diabetes, as this shows empathy, respect, and interest in
the client's perspective. It also allows the nurse to identify any barriers or difficulties that may affect
the client's adherence to self-care measures, and provide appropriate support and resources.
Incorrect options:
A) "Do you have any questions about what I just told you?" - This is an ineffective statement,
as it implies that the nurse expects the client to have questions, which may discourage them from
asking or expressing their concerns. It also puts the burden of communication on the client, rather
than on the nurse. A better way to phrase this question is "What questions do you have about what
I just told you?"
B) "How do you feel about managing your diabetes at home?" - This is an ineffective statement,
as it is too vague and broad, and may not elicit specific or useful information from the client. It also
focuses on the client's feelings, rather than on their knowledge, skills, and behaviors. A better way to
phrase this question is "How confident are you in managing your diabetes at home?"
D) "You need to follow these instructions carefully to avoid complications." - This is an ineffective
statement, as it is authoritative and paternalistic, and may undermine the client's autonomy and
motivation. It also focuses on the negative consequences of non-adherence, rather than on the positive
benefits of adherence. A better way to phrase this statement is "Following these instructions will help
you control your blood glucose and prevent complications."