Communication and Interpersonal Skills Flashcards

A client with hearing loss frequently misunderstands your verbal instructions. What is the BEST adaptation strategy?

Answer: Face the client directly and speak slowly at a normal volume

Facing the client and speaking slowly at normal volume allows lip-reading and uses clear visual cues without distorting sound.

When a client becomes angry and starts raising their voice at you, your FIRST response should be to:

Answer: Remain calm, speak softly, and acknowledge their feelings

Staying calm and acknowledging feelings de-escalates tension and keeps communication productive.

Which statement best describes 'active listening' in a PCA context?

Answer: Giving full attention, making eye contact, and reflecting back what the client says

Active listening involves focused attention, nonverbal acknowledgment, and paraphrasing to confirm understanding.

A client tells you, 'I don't want to talk about it.' The MOST appropriate PCA response is:

Answer: Respect their choice, let them know you're available, and proceed with care

Respecting the client's boundary while leaving the door open maintains trust and honors their autonomy.

Proxemics refers to:

Answer: The use of personal space and physical distance in interactions

Proxemics is the study of how physical distance affects communication and comfort between people.

Your client speaks primarily Spanish and you do not. The BEST immediate action is to:

Answer: Use a professional interpreter or translation service

Professional interpreters ensure accurate, confidential communication; family members may omit or alter information.

When documenting a client's communication about pain, a PCA should:

Answer: Record the client's exact words in quotation marks along with observed behaviors

Exact quotes and observed behaviors provide accurate, objective records that support continuity of care.