The Importance Of Communication In Nursing

The Importance of Communication in Nursing

The aim of this assignment is to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and the importance of communication within nursing by relating it to an example from clinical practice. The clinical practice example is based in a healthcare setting on a hospital ward (appendix 1). With reference to The Code of Professional Conduct (NMC, 2008), confidentiality will be observed throughout, therefore the patient’s details have been changed to Mr Jones. The example will demonstrate the achievement of two clinical competencies from the clinical practice assessment in the domain of care delivery (see appendix 2). Within the essay, communication will be broadly explored followed by communication that directly…show more content…
It is evident that she is aware of barriers to effective communication. Additionally, it is made apparent that communication skills are vitally and fundamentally important in clinical practice. When there is effective communication it creates positive health practices. The need for a therapeutic relationship (patient-centred) is to be the main focus of the student/nurse. The key success in this role is accurate assessment of the patient’s needs, abilities and commitment to meeting them with sensitivity. Assessment is impossible without the ability to communicate using both verbal and non-verbal skills to explore, and allow expression of the patient’s feelings. The key of effective communication is making the right choice of intervention based on assessment of the individual, the situation and resources. It is important to adapt our communication style with others rather than adopt a ‘one-size-fits all’ approach.

APPENDIX 1 – The Practical Example

Mr Jones retired 71 year old man who lives with his wife at home. He had been admitted following a stroke that occurred in the right hemisphere of his brain, leaving the left side of the body with physical impairments. Mr Jones experiences visual neglect, which has resulted from his stroke. The patient is consequently unable…show more content…
(2003) ‘Defining Communication’, in Ellis, R., Gates, B. and Kenworthy, N. (eds.) Interpersonal Communication in Nursing: Theory and Practice. 2nd ed. London: Churchill Livingstone, p.3-15.

Ewles, L and Simnett, I. (2003) Promoting Health: A Practical Guide. 5th edn. London: Bailliere Tindall.

Halligan, P., and Marshall, J. (1998) ‘Neglect of Awareness’, Consciousness and Cognition, 7, p356-380.

Hargie, O. and Dickson, D. (2004). Skilled Interpersonal Communication: Research, Theory and Practice. 4th edn. London: Routledge.

Intercollegiate Stroke Working Party. (2004) National Clinical Guidelines for Stroke: 2nd edn. London: Royal College of Physicians.

Lloyd, M and Bor, R. (2004) Communication Skills for Medicine. 2nd edn. London: Churchill Livingstone.

Newman, A. (2003) ‘Self-Concept in the Nurse-Client Relationship’, in Arnold, E. and Underman Boggs, K. (eds.) Interpersonal Relationships: Professional Communication Skills for Nurses. 5th edn. Philadelphia, USA: Saunders Elsevier. p.64-90.

National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) (2008) Stroke: Diagnosis and Initial Management of Acute Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA): National Clinical Guideline for Chronic Conditions. London: NICE (National Institute for Clinical