Question

A hospice nurse sits at the bedside of a male patient in the final stages of cancer. He and his parents made the decision that he would move home and they would help him in the final stages of his disease. The family participates in his care, but lately the nurse has increased the amount of time she spends with the family. Whenever she enters the room or approaches the patient to give care, she touches his shoulder and tells him that she is present. This is an example of what type of touch? A. Caring touch B. Protective touch C. Task-oriented touch D. Interpersonal touch

Short answer

The described scenario is an example of A. Caring touch.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Context of Touch

Review the scenario to understand the nurse's intention behind the touch. Consider the setting, the relationship between the nurse and the patient, as well as the nurse's verbal communication combined with the act of touching the patient's shoulder.

Identifying the Purpose of Touch

Assess the purpose of the touch. It's important to determine if the touch is meant to comfort, protect, perform a specific task, or support an interpersonal connection.

Matching the Purpose to the Type of Touch

Compare the characteristics of the touch with the definitions of the different types of touch. Caring touch often involves providing comfort and emotional support. Protective touch is usually used to safeguard the patient. Task-oriented touch is primarily used to accomplish a task. Interpersonal touch is used to establish a personal connection.

Key concepts

Caring Touch

In nursing, caring touch is an essential component that symbolizes comfort, compassion, and empathy. It can be a silent, yet powerful form of communication that conveys support to patients during their vulnerable moments. This type of touch goes beyond mere physical contact; it represents a human connection that recognizes a person's need for care.

For instance, when a nurse gently touches a patient's shoulder and offers reassurance, as described in the hospice nurse scenario, it's a classic example of caring touch. Such an act can have a profound impact on the patient’s emotional well-being, often providing a sense of security and warmth.

It's crucial to understand that caring touch should always be purposeful and thoughtful, considering the patient's personal preferences, cultural background, and comfort level. Overall, caring touch facilitates healing by creating a nurturing and tranquil environment for patients.

Protective Touch

The notion of protective touch in the nursing context is intricately linked to the safety and well-being of the patient. A nurse may apply this type of touch to prevent a patient from harm or to stabilize them during a procedure.

For example, a nurse might place a hand on a patient's arm to guide them safely from a bed to a chair, thus preventing falls and injuries. Protective touch also extends to situations where a nurse may need to interrupt or prevent harmful behaviors, such as when a patient attempts to remove medical equipment.

When implementing protective touch, the nurse’s priority is the physical safety of the patient. However, even within this context, the touch should convey a sense of security and compassion, ensuring that the patient feels cared for rather than restricted.

Task-Oriented Touch

Task-oriented touch is a type of touch that nurses utilize to perform specific medical or procedural duties. It refers to the physical contact required to carry out tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medication, or dressing wounds.

While task-oriented touch is primarily functional, it should not be devoid of human compassion. Nurses can convey a great deal of kindness and professionalism by performing these tasks gently and respectfully. Communicating what will happen before initiating contact can help in maintaining patient dignity and reducing anxiety.

Although task-oriented, this type of touch still offers an opportunity for nurses to connect with their patients, allowing for a blend of efficiency and empathetic care that supports the healing process.

Interpersonal Touch

Finally, interpersonal touch in nursing is about building a personal connection between the nurse and the patient. More than just physical contact, this touch fosters a therapeutic relationship that can contribute greatly to the patient's psychological and emotional recovery.

Interpersonal touch could be a handshake, a pat on the back, or a supportive squeeze of the hand. It serves as a bridge to communicate trust, encourage collaboration in care, and convey genuine concern for the individual’s well-being.

Nurses use interpersonal touch not only to comfort but to communicate on a deeply personal level, acknowledging the human desire for connection, especially in times of stress or illness. Its proper use can enhance patient satisfaction and can play a vital role in holistic care.