Patient and Family Communication Flashcards

What is the nursing assistant's role in family education about the dying process?

Answer: Reinforce information already given by the nurse, answer simple questions, and refer complex questions to the nurse

Nursing assistants reinforce teachings provided by the nurse, answer simple supportive questions, and refer clinical or complex questions to the nurse.

When a patient expresses anger, the best response from the nursing assistant is to:

Answer: Listen without judgment and acknowledge the patient's feelings

Acknowledging and validating a patient's feelings without judgment is therapeutic and helps the patient feel heard and supported.

Which of the following is an example of nonverbal communication?

Answer: Maintaining appropriate eye contact and a calm expression

Nonverbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, eye contact, posture, and touch, all of which convey empathy and attentiveness.

Which type of question encourages a patient to share more about their feelings?

Answer: Open-ended questions

Open-ended questions invite the patient to share more detail and express their feelings, promoting therapeutic conversation.

When should the nursing assistant use touch as a communication tool in hospice care?

Answer: When appropriate and with the patient's consent, to convey comfort and empathy

Appropriate touch, such as gently holding a hand with the patient's consent, can convey warmth, empathy, and compassion in palliative care settings.

If a patient says, 'I feel like a burden to my family,' the most therapeutic response is:

Answer: 'Tell me more about how you're feeling.'

Encouraging the patient to share more promotes therapeutic communication, validates their feelings, and allows deeper support of emotional needs.