XA3002 Assignment Professional Communication

Professional Communication

Positive patient outcomes and interprofessional relationships require professional communication and emotional intelligence in nursing. But inadequate adherence to and understanding of these principles exist among nursing professionals, creating communication barriers that can affect patient outcomes and team functioning. Much of the conversation is around effective communication processes, and not much thought is given to the actual event afterwards, and how the nurse is able to be emotionally intelligent when it is stressful. This paper aims to clarify the importance of professional communication and emotional intelligence in nursing practice, discuss the correlation between these two and the ethical requirements, and explore the impact of professional communication and emotional intelligence on patient (family) and nurse relationships, as well as nurse relationships with others in the healthcare setting.

Part 1 Interview Reflection

• Feelings Regarding the Interview

I have learned much more respect for the nurse throughout this interview because of the importance of interpersonal communication in their line of work. The method the nurse uses in providing care to patients and staff is characterized by clear communication. Her description of managing aggressive interactions with the family member of the person with whom she is caring, particularly when she is describing a specific circumstance by focusing on the importance of being courteous and respectful, was influential on me. Such a way of communication involves listening to the patients without any form of distraction, without interruptions, and even providing affirmation to ensure that the patient has been well understood (Zulman et al., 2020). For instance, she mentioned a patient who was quite anxious about the surgery and was able to calm them and make them feel safe through listening to them with empathy and communicating with them.

Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

The interview highlighted the importance of verbal and nonverbal communication in the nursing profession. The nurse described the use of simple language in the process of verbal communication, particularly when talking to the patient about medical terms. She emphasized using “a patient’s tone and tempo. She uses simple words and phrases to aid comprehension by older patients, for instance. The nurse emphasized such elements as “eye contact,” “trust and empathy,” and “open body language” as important components of nonverbal communication. Her example demonstrated that the nonverbal communication skills could have a beneficial impact on the patient, for example, a gentle hand on a patient’s hand and eye contact.

Communication Skills Employed

The nurse was empathetic, patient, clear, and courageous. She explained that she employs active listening skills every day to better understand the needs of her patients and empathy in dealing with pain or suffering. For instance, she attends to the patient’s symptoms without interrupting the patient to elicit all the information she needs to make the correct diagnosis and plan the treatment. Another focus of the nurse was being assertive, particularly in advocating for the patient’s needs within a multidisciplinary team. Described a time when she had to speak up for a patient who was becoming more ill than the doctor realized, ensuring the patient was cared for in a timely and appropriate fashion (Drossman et al., 2021).

Part 2 Professional Communication and Emotional Intelligence

• Importance of Professional Communication in Nursing

The purpose of this class is to examine how professionals communicate in the nursing field.

Communication in the nursing environment is essential as it plays a role in patient care and safety, collaboration among nurses, and patient care outcomes. Stakeholders, nurses, doctors, and patients benefit from communication as it boosts patient satisfaction, reduces errors, and develops a positive hospital culture (Fuchshuber & Greif, 2022). For instance, when a nurse is transferring a patient to another caregiver, they need to provide adequate information on the patient’s condition in a clear and concise manner to prevent misunderstandings and bad outcomes. Communication is a two-way street, as listening and feedback are two aspects of professional communication. This is essential in nursing since it aids in establishing a therapeutic relationship with patients and families. For instance, if a nurse explains a complex medical process simply and helps the patient understand, the patient’s confidence and adherence to the treatment improve.

• Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Nursing

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is significant within the nursing profession as it requires the nurse to manage their own emotions alongside the emotions of the patient, client, or family, as well as to navigate interpersonal relationships (Mansel & Einion, 2019). By developing Emotional Intelligence, nurses can minimize stress, establish patient-staff relationships, and be compassionate towards patients during care provision. A nurse who is highly developed in emotional intelligence is able to feel a patient’s fear/anxiety even if they don’t actually express it. The emotional aspect of the patient can be understood and responded to with empathy to improve the patient’s well-being. EI helps nurses resolve conflicts and work together (Latsou et al., 2022).

Connection to the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics

Professional communication and emotional intelligence fit with the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics, which stresses respect, advocacy, and accountability (American Nurses Association, 2015). Good communication is essential for promoting patients’ rights and seeking their involvement in planning their care. The nurse exhibited patient advocacy by communicating effectively and courteously with patients and the health care team. For instance, the ANA Code of Ethics encourages nurses to ensure patient dignity and autonomy through conscious, sensitive communication and informed consent discussions (American Nurses Association, 2015). Using emotional intelligence, nurses uphold these ethical values and make the patient feel valued, respected and involved in their care.

• Communication with Patients, Families, and Other Healthcare Professionals

Interactions with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals are greatly influenced by effective communication and emotional intelligence. Improved communication with patients and families will allow for better comprehension of the care plan, outcomes, and risks, leading to improved decision making and patient satisfaction (Molina-Mula & Gallo-Estrada, 2020). For instance, if a nurse is able to discuss a patient’s condition and treatment options with compassion and understanding, it can help alleviate fear and build trust. Communication and empathy are key when interacting with other healthcare workers. Especially in patient interaction, where it involves working in teams, problem solving, expectations of conflict, and collaboration. For instance, effective communication between nurses and doctors in critical care environments can help to minimize errors and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, interpersonal skills and emotional aspects are two important dimensions of nursing that involve a lot of concern in terms of patient care, collaboration, and ethics. During the nurse interview, I was able to witness how these skills help to build trust, improve the understanding of the patient, and ensure advocacy. Communication is the basis for interpersonal skills, effective communication, emotional self, and others management, and effective contribution to a healthy work environment. All these traits should be developed and demonstrated to further the vision of patient care improvement and elevate ethical nursing practice.