Techniques of therapeutic communication I: Active Listening, Sharing Observations, Validation, and Using Touch

Nurses engage with patients using the following therapeutic communication techniques.

The first technique is active listening which involves paying close attention to what a patient says verbally and nonverbally.

For instance, to make a patient feel heard, a nurse should lean forward, turn to face them, establish eye contact, nod their head, and smile when appropriate.

Then, nurses share observations of the patient's appearance, sounds, or behavior which helps to draw attention to the potential problem.

For instance, the nurse notices that the patient is looking exhausted and asks the patient if he had any trouble sleeping last night.

Next, the nurse uses the validation technique to recognize and accept the patient's thoughts, emotions, and needs.

A nurse, for example, validates a newly diagnosed stroke patient by saying, "I understand that you are concerned about your condition because you will not be able to perform your daily activities as before."

Lastly, the professional touch establishes a connection and promotes healing by expressing concern or care.

For example, holding a patient's hand during a painful procedure will comfort the patient.