According to studies, an excellent nurse-patient relationship is essential for the patient’s healing process. Patients who have a good relationship with their nurses heal faster, have less pain, and are more likely to follow their discharge instructions. Besides the obvious benefits to the patient, a good nurse-patient relationship is also beneficial to the nurse. Nurses who have good relationships with their patients have been proven to have less job-related stress, less burnout, and more job satisfaction.
Many factors contribute to a good nurse-patient relationship. Some of these factors include:
- Establishing Rapport with Patient:
Rapport is a relationship of mutual understanding and trust. It is the foundation of any good relationship. To establish rapport with a patient, the nurse must communicate effectively. It includes being a good listener and using open-ended questions. Also, the nurse should try to understand the patient’s point of view and where they come from. However, it is also crucial for the nurse to maintain a professional boundary with the patient. Through online courses, aspiring professionals can learn more about developing rapport in a healthcare setting. Online RN to BSN programs can help practitioners hone their professional skills. And for those who are already in management positions, nursing leadership courses can provide additional insights.
- Showing Genuine Concern for The Patient:
A nurse should always show genuine concern for their patients. It includes respecting the patient’s privacy, being compassionate, and providing emotional support. It is also essential for the nurse to be available when the patient needs them. In addition to being physically present, the nurse should also be mentally present and focused on the patient. However, it is also vital for the nurse to know their limits and not take on too much. And if a patient is having a hard time, the nurse should be sure to take care of themselves.
- Effective Communication:
Effective communication is essential for a good nurse-patient relationship. The nurse should make sure that they are clear and concise when communicating with the patient. They should also use language that the patient will understand. In addition, the nurse should make sure to listen to the patient and understand their needs. Also, the nurse should make sure to respect the patient’s privacy and communicate in a culturally sensitive manner.
- Respecting the Patient’s Autonomy:
Patients have the right to make their own decisions about their health. And while the nurse may not always agree with the patient’s decisions, the nurse needs to respect the patient’s autonomy. It includes allowing the patient to make their own treatment decisions, respecting their privacy, and giving the patient control over their own care
- Quality Care:
Quality care is essential for a good nurse-patient relationship. It includes providing accurate information, being attentive to the patient’s needs, and respecting the patient. In addition, the nurse should make sure to follow up with the patient after they have been discharged. And if the nurse makes a mistake, they need to apologize and make things right.
- Advocate for The Patient:
The nurse should always advocate for the patient. It includes making sure the patient’s rights are respected, fighting for the patient’s best interests, and being a voice for the patient. Also, the nurse should make sure to keep the patient informed about their rights and options. And if the patient is having a hard time, the nurse should be sure to support them.
- Being a Good Teacher:
A good nurse is also a good teacher. It includes being patient, being clear and concise, and using language that the patient will understand. In addition, the nurse should make sure to explain things in a culturally sensitive manner. Also, the nurse should teach the patient about their illness, the treatment options, and how to take care of themselves.
- Being a Good Team Player:
A good nurse is also a good team player. Being a good team player refers to working well with other healthcare team members, such as doctors and pharmacists. It also includes being a good advocate for the patient and communicating effectively with the team. In addition, the nurse should make sure to follow the doctor’s instructions and other members of the team. And if the nurse faces challenges or problems with another team member, It is best to discuss differences and resolve such matters professionally
- Using Therapeutic Communication Techniques:
Therapeutic communication is a vital part of a good nurse-patient relationship. It includes using open-ended questions, reflecting back on what the patient has said, and using active listening. In addition, the nurse should also use nonverbal communication, such as eye contact and body language.
- Establishing Trust with The Patient:
Trust is essential for a good nurse-patient relationship. This includes things like being honest, being open, and being transparent. In addition, the nurse should make sure to keep the patient’s information confidential. Also, the nurse should be sure to follow through on their promises. And if the nurse makes a mistake, they need to apologize and make things right.
- The nurse respects the patient’s cultural beliefs and values:
Cultural sensitivity is essential for a good nurse-patient relationship. It includes being aware of the patient’s cultural beliefs and values and respecting them. Nurses should also use language that the patient can easily understand, consider the patient’s personal and mental circumstances, and provide culturally competent care.
Bottom Line:
A good nurse-patient relationship is essential for providing quality patient care. There are many things that a nurse can do to build a good relationship with their patient. These things include being a good listener, respectful, and a good advocate. In addition, it is essential for the nurse to be a good teacher and to use therapeutic communication techniques. Finally, the nurse should establish trust with the patient and respect the patient’s personal beliefs and values. Nursing is a gratifying career, and since nurses spend most of their professional lives taking care of patients, it’d be best to work on the qualities mentioned above to make life easier
