NURS 315: Communication Chapter 1

Introduction to Communication

• Communication involves sharing ideas, thoughts, and feelings to ensure mutual understanding.
• Influenced by learned behaviors from childhood, communication skills can be improved through observation and practice.

Importance of Communication

• Effective communication is essential for individual and organizational success.
• In healthcare, it affects patient care quality, teamwork, patient safety, satisfaction, and overall efficiency.
• Miscommunication can lead to misunderstandings, impacting health outcomes significantly.

Definition of Communication

• Defined as the successful transfer of a message and meaning from one party to another using symbols, words, and images.
• Emphasizes dynamic interaction between sender and receiver.

Objectives/Aims of Communication

• Facilitates human relations and empathy.
• Persuades and influences attitudes and understanding.
• Encourages free exchange of information, suggestions, and complaints.
• Aims to reduce misinformation.

Models of Communication

• Linear Model: Simple sender-message-receiver structure.
• Interactive Model: Introduces feedback and context in communication.

Communication Process and Elements

• Includes ten major elements:
  • Referent: Initiates communication.
  • Sender: The communicator responsible for message transmission.
  • Message: The core information being communicated.
  • Encoding: Conversion of ideas into symbols or language.
  • Communication Channel: Pathway for message delivery (e.g., verbal, written, digital).
  • Receiver: Individual receiving and interpreting the message.
  • Decoding: Interpretation of the received message.
  • Feedback: Confirmation of message reception and understanding.
  • Interpersonal Variables: Influences from sender/receiver’s background and context.
  • Environment: The physical and emotional context supporting communication.

Principles of Communication

• Utilize appropriate language and medium to match the communication purpose.
• Ensure timely and contextually fitting delivery of messages for enhanced understanding.
• Adapt the message to address the receiver's needs and perspectives.
• Prioritize receiver feedback for effective communication.
• Align immediate communication with long-term organizational goals.

Barriers to Effective Communication

• Organizational Barriers: Policies, regulations, status differences.
• Semantic Barriers: Ambiguous language, assumptions, translation errors.
• Physical Barriers: Health issues, environmental noise, distance.
• Psychological Barriers: Emotions, distractions, fear, lack of interest.
• Cross-Cultural Barriers: Differences in ethnicity, religion, and social context.
• Perceptional Barriers: Misunderstandings resulting from varying levels of knowledge.

Types of Barriers in the Communication Process

• Encoding Barriers: Include insensitivity to the receiver and overload of information.
• Transmitting Barriers: Physical distractions and long communication chains.
• Decoding Barriers: Lack of knowledge, interest, and communication skills.
• Responding Barriers: Absence or inadequacy of feedback mechanisms.

Effective Communication Skills

• Aim for clarity and avoid ambiguity.
• Improve active listening: acknowledge understanding, use silence, ask questions, paraphrase, and reflect meanings.
• Understand non-verbal cues and body language; focus on emotional undertones.
• Enhance speaking skills: clearly articulate thoughts, use respectful language, and express emotions appropriately.

Conclusion

• Communication is a dynamic and multifaceted process requiring active participation and feedback.
• Therapeutic communication in healthcare focuses on delivering care effectively through understanding and responsiveness.