Communication Skills Flashcards

A patient begins crying during a conversation. The most therapeutic response is to:

Answer: Sit quietly with the patient and offer a tissue

Sitting quietly and offering comfort demonstrates empathy and allows the patient to feel supported without dismissing their emotions.

Which scenario demonstrates the use of 'I' statements in conflict resolution?

Answer: 'I feel frustrated when my input is not acknowledged during rounds.'

'I' statements focus on the speaker's feelings without placing blame, which reduces defensiveness and promotes constructive dialogue.

Proxemics in healthcare communication refers to:

Answer: The physical distance maintained between communicators

Proxemics is the study of personal space and how distance affects communication, especially in clinical encounters.

A patient nods and says 'yes' but looks confused. You should:

Answer: Ask the patient to explain the information back to you in their own words

The teach-back method confirms true understanding by having patients restate information in their own words, identifying any gaps.

Which of the following best describes 'active listening'?

Answer: Giving full attention, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back what was said

Active listening involves fully concentrating on the speaker, understanding the message, and responding thoughtfully.

When communicating with an elderly patient who speaks slowly, you should:

Answer: Allow them adequate time to speak without interruption

Allowing adequate time shows respect and ensures the patient can communicate fully without feeling rushed or dismissed.

The primary purpose of a patient intake form in the context of communication is to:

Answer: Gather baseline information to guide accurate and informed patient care

Intake forms systematically collect patient history, complaints, and demographic data to inform the care team before clinical interaction.