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Communication Challenges and Strategies
Communication Challenges and Strategies ( 7 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has aphasia after a stroke. Which communication strategy should the nurse use to facilitate understanding?
Speak loudly and slowly to the client. - This is not an appropriate strategy, as speaking loudly can be perceived as shouting or anger, and speaking slowly can be patronizing or insulting. The nurse should speak clearly and at a normal pace, using simple and familiar words.
Use gestures and pictures to supplement verbal communication.
Rationale: The nurse should use nonverbal communication methods, such as gestures, pictures, or writing, to supplement verbal communication and enhance the client's comprehension. These methods can also help the client express their needs and preferences.
Ask the client yes or no questions only. - This is not an optimal strategy, as it limits the client's ability to communicate their feelings, thoughts, and concerns. The nurse should ask open-ended questions whenever possible, and allow the client time to respond.
Avoid eye contact with the client to reduce anxiety. - This is not a helpful strategy, as eye contact is an important aspect of communication that conveys interest, respect, and empathy. The nurse should maintain eye contact with the client, unless it is culturally inappropriate.
Correct answer: B) Use gestures and pictures to supplement verbal communication.
Rationale: The nurse should use nonverbal communication methods, such as gestures, pictures, or writing, to supplement verbal communication and enhance the client's comprehension. These methods can also help the client express their needs and preferences.
Incorrect options:
A) Speak loudly and slowly to the client. - This is not an appropriate strategy, as speaking loudly can be perceived as shouting or anger, and speaking slowly can be patronizing or insulting. The nurse should speak clearly and at a normal pace, using simple and familiar words.
C) Ask the client yes or no questions only. - This is not an optimal strategy, as it limits the client's ability to communicate their feelings, thoughts, and concerns. The nurse should ask open-ended questions whenever possible, and allow the client time to respond.
D) Avoid eye contact with the client to reduce anxiety. - This is not a helpful strategy, as eye contact is an important aspect of communication that conveys interest, respect, and empathy. The nurse should maintain eye contact with the client, unless it is culturally inappropriate.