Indeed, nurses are among the true heroes of healthcare. They work tirelessly to make sure their patients get the best care possible.
As per one study in the United States, the registered nurse market size is expected to reach USD$763.24 billion in 2030, with a yearly growth rate of 5.62%. This number shows us how important nurses are in healthcare and how much people need their services.
Now, you’re pursuing the same career, and completing your pre-nursing internship is such an exciting next step. It’s a great chance to apply your knowledge in actual situations and gain invaluable lessons that just can’t be learned in textbooks.
One of the most notable skills you’ll need to develop is communicating effectively with patients. It’s at the heart of the nursing profession, and honing this skill early on will set you up for success in your future endeavors.
In this article, we’ll discuss tips to help you navigate patient interactions during your pre-nursing internship. Let’s begin.
1. Establish Trust Through Active Listening
Building trust with patients begins with active listening. They’re likely feeling a mix of emotions – anxiety, fear, or maybe just plain discomfort. One of the best things you can offer is your undivided attention. It might sound like common advice, but its importance can’t be overstated.
Active listening goes beyond simply hearing what someone says. It’s about tuning in to what the patient’s saying, how they’re saying it, and even picking up on their body language. Make eye contact (when appropriate), nod occasionally to show you’re engaged, and avoid interrupting.
Moreover, while ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ questions are useful, inquiries such as ‘Can you tell me more about how you’re feeling? How did your symptoms start?’ demonstrates elaboration and deep care, allowing patients to feel heard and understood. As you may know, patients simply need someone to talk to and listen to them.
2. Use Clear And Simple Language
Medical jargon or terminology can be confusing. As a pre-nursing intern, it’s important to meet patients where they are in terms of understanding. That said, use clear and everyday language when assessing the patient’s procedures, diagnoses, or treatment plans.
For example, instead of throwing out a word like ‘tachycardia,’ you could simply say their heart rate is a bit elevated or faster than usual. That’s going to make way for a more open and effective conversation about their health.
3. Respect Privacy And Confidentiality
Privacy and confidentiality are non-negotiable. And they need to be honored and protected at all costs. As such, make it a routine to knock before entering a patient’s room, ensure the door is closed for private conversations, and never discuss patient cases in public areas where others can overhear.
Your responsibility is to create an environment where patients feel safe to open up and seek the care they need without fear of judgment or breach of privacy.
4. Practice Cultural Sensitivity
As a pre-nursing intern, you’ll be interacting with patients from all walks of life. So, to provide exceptional care for each individual, developing cultural sensitivity is essential. However, this goes beyond simply respecting religious beliefs and dietary restrictions. It’s about fostering trust and ensuring culturally appropriate care by understanding your patients’ unique backgrounds and traditions.
Building rapport with patients and practicing cultural sensitivity starts with open communication. Actively listen to your patients, and don’t hesitate to ask respectful questions to gain a deeper understanding of their cultural background. This open dialogue creates a safe space for patients to share their needs and preferences.
5. Show Empathy And Compassion
Patients facing health concerns often feel vulnerable and scared. In fact, a staggering 39% of Americans report feeling anxious before a doctor’s appointment. This heightened anxiety highlights the importance of empathy in healthcare settings.
That said, step into their shoes, acknowledge their emotions, and offer words of comfort and support. This can go a long way in alleviating their pain or worries. Nonetheless, it’s vital not to make promises that can’t be fulfilled. That means refrain from mentioning something that you’re not sure about, such as claiming a condition is curable when uncertain.
You can also provide practical assistance, like helping them understand their diagnosis or connecting them with resources that can answer their queries or concerns. Remember, genuine care built on empathy and compassion can make a world of difference in a patient’s tough experience and outlook in life.
6. Seek Guidance When Needed
Every interaction with a patient is a valuable learning experience. But don’t be afraid to ask your mentors or supervisors for tips on how to communicate effectively with patients. Seek feedback too and take constructive criticism gracefully, using it as an opportunity to grow and develop as a future nurse. Ultimately, this feedback will help you improve your interactions with patients and become a more effective caregiver.
Final Thoughts
Your pre-nursing internship is just the start of an exciting journey into the nursing field. The main thing is that each patient interaction gives you an opportunity to positively impact someone’s health journey. That’s what nursing is all about.
If you’re searching for an organization to pursue your nursing career, visit online resources today. Our renowned internship program provides aspiring nurses with invaluable hands-on training in a supportive, nurturing environment. Be one of our interns and kickstart your journey towards becoming a compassionate and skilled nurse.
