Practical Nurse (PN) Management Practice Exam

Maintaining eye contact is a fundamental non-verbal communication technique that can effectively foster trust and rapport between the Practical Nurse and the patient. Eye contact signals attentiveness and interest, making the patient feel valued and respected. It encourages openness and helps to create a more engaging conversation, allowing patients to feel comfortable sharing their concerns and experiences. Trust is built when the nurse appears genuinely focused and present, which is crucial in fostering a therapeutic relationship. In the context of communication, practices that involve interrupting a patient, avoiding presence, or using complex jargon can negatively impact the interaction. Interruptions can lead to frustration and a feeling of being dismissed, which can erode trust. Avoiding physical presence could result in perceived disinterest, while complex medical terminology might confuse patients, making them feel alienated rather than understood. Thus, maintaining eye contact stands out as a clear and effective strategy for enhancing communication and building a trusting nurse-patient relationship.