Self-awareness of verbal and nonverbal communication is very essential in nursing.

As nurses

we often need to work on improving our communication skills. Knowing my strengths and

challenges are important in improving my awareness. I believe I used many resources to

improve my self-awareness of communication skills in my professional setting. I would get

honest feedbacks from family and friends. My coworkers who give me constructive criticism. At

my workplace they also offer continuing education programs, workshops and in-services to help

us improved in these areas.

According to American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2008), “Effective interprofessional

communication fosters patient-centered care and results in quality outcomes.” I believe the most

effective communication a nurse can bring to collaborative interactions is active listening.

According to Everynurse.org “the ability to actively listen can bring up some important details

about the Patient’s health or their concerns regarding treatment.” Listening without interrupting

the other person. Giving the other person time to express their thoughts or feelings. Making eye

contact, be engaged, understand what is being said, giving feedback, and ask questions are all

important aspects. I feel by doing these there will be a sense of trust that develops and Patient

will feel more comfortable. These are important in my practice because as nurses we listen to

the Patient, understands what is being said and communicate with Physicians when necessary

for recommendations. So a nurse has to communicate effectively as a team daily for success in

Patient outcome. “Communicating effectively in all areas of practice and with all members of

the healthcare team, including the patient and the patient’s support network, is an expectation of

all registered nurses.” American Nurses Association (2015)

References:

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2008). The essentials of baccalaureate

education for professional nursing practice.

Everynurse .org

American Nurse Association (2015)