The Good & the Bad of Nursing Communication

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Communication in the world of nursing, or any medical field where the patient is susceptible to risk, is essential. Any miscommunication can lead to irreversible and sometimes, life threatening mistakes. With this knowledge you would think that all nurses would make communication a priority in the workplace. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. From the experiences I have had thus far in dealing with multiple nursing staff members, I have noticed an extent of what is known as horizontal violence. I have even been a victim of this violence myself. Horizontal violence is best described as a form of bullying. In my experiences, this has been demonstrated through disregard. Understandably, student nurses aren't ideal to be working with because we have not acquired the same amount of knowledge as experienced working nurses. Thus, I feel as those other nurses disregard us and refrain from explaining significant information needed to properly care for the patient. Regardless of the motives behind this treatment, it does occur, I have experienced it firsthand. With this, comes the feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty while caring for the patient. From all this miscommunication the only person who is affected is the patient. This is why it is so important as future nurses to realize that the patient is the priority, and that effective therapeutic communication between staff and students is one of the most important forms of patient care. 

Thankfully, I have also encountered the good side of communication as well. There have been multiple nurses who have been abundantly helpful in explaining patient scenarios. This allowed us to work together as a team to provide the best patient care possible. When communication was effective, the overall hospital experience felt more peaceful. I left with a sense of reassurance, I knew I had made a difference in the life of my patient. For me, this proved that communication is a vital aspect of nursing. Without communication, patient care is compromised. Thus, it is important to keep in mind what the Lord says about communication in the bible:

"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear" Ephesians 4:29