Question

An experienced nurse is explaining the use of touch from a caring perspective. What information does the nurse include in the discussion with the student about touch? A. Nurses touch patients only while performing procedures or doing assessments. B. Touch is a type of verbal communication. C. Nurses use touch only when a patient is in pain. D. Touch forms a connection between nurse and patient.

Short answer

Option D (Touch forms a connection between nurse and patient) is included in the discussion about touch from a caring perspective.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Purpose of Touch

Understand that touch used by nurses serves several purposes beyond physical assessments or procedures: it can communicate care, provide comfort, and establish a connection with the patient.

Eliminating Incorrect Options

Eliminate options that restrict the use of touch to specific situations, such as only during procedures (Option A) or only when a patient is in pain (Option C), or that miscategorize touch as a form of verbal communication (Option B), because touch is nonverbal.

Identifying the Correct Option

Determine that the correct option is the one that recognizes touch as a means to form a therapeutic connection between nurse and patient, which aligns with a caring perspective.

Key concepts

Therapeutic Communication

Therapeutic communication in nursing is a cornerstone of the caregiver-patient relationship. It encompasses techniques that support physical and emotional well-being by creating a connection, conveying empathy, and providing psychological support. Nurses are trained to use words, gestures, and expressions that facilitate understanding, rapport, and trust. This form of communication not only includes the spoken word but also incorporates active listening, silence, and the nuanced use of nonverbal cues.

Effective therapeutic communication requires a sense of timing, personal sensitivity, and the recognition of personal boundaries. Such interactions can alleviate anxiety and fear, help clarify medical information, and prepare patients for procedures. Through therapeutic communication, nurses promote a healing environment, encouraging patients to express their feelings and concerns, a critical step towards patient-centered care.

Nurse-Patient Relationship

The nurse-patient relationship is a dynamic and collaborative connection that is central to nursing practice. It is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and compassion. From the initial meeting, nurses establish rapport with patients, which helps in developing a mutually beneficial alliance focused on the patient's well-being.

In building this rapport, nurses maintain professionalism while personalizing the care they offer. Consistency, attentive listening, and demonstrating respect for a patient's values and beliefs enhance this relationship. Importantly, clear and honest communication is key, as it enables the patient to be an active participant in their own care. Ideally, this relationship empowers patients, fosters independence, and has positive implications for their health outcomes.

Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication is often as important as verbal exchanges in the nursing context. Gestures, facial expressions, and body language convey a wealth of information and can reinforce the spoken message or, conversely, can contradict and confuse. Nurses utilize nonverbal methods of communication to demonstrate empathy and understanding, comfort patients, and offer reassurance.

Touch, a key component of nonverbal communication, is used by nurses to form meaningful connections with patients. When used appropriately, touch can convey caring and support, and can be thoroughly comforting to a patient. It is an intrinsic part of human connection that can foster a sense of safety and trust. However, cultural sensitivities and individual preferences regarding personal space must always be considered and respected. In the context of therapeutic touch, the nurse must gauge the patient's response and proceed with care and empathy.