“Therapeutic communication consists of specific techniques, including the use of open-ended questions, touch, focusing, giving information, acknowledging, clarifying, reflecting, silence, and offering self (Berman & Snyder, 2012), with the goal of establishing a nurse-patient relationship based on mutual trust and respect. It is patient-centered as opposed to provider-centered.” (Kleier, 2013, p. 110) The ‘Handover’ video presented within one of the Pregnant Stroke vignettes shows a noteworthy example of effective therapeutic communication. Through inter-professional communication between the paramedic, James, and the nurse, Louise, both of the health-care professionals were able to create a safe, comfortable environment for their patient. “The nurse's key goal is to gain the patient's cooperation and trust often in a limited amount of time.” (Rosenberg, Gallo-Silver, 2011, p. 2) To do this, the nurse and/or health professional must use a range of techniques to achieve the greatest possible outcome for that individual. As Sally, the patient, is pregnant and had just experienced a stroke, it is crucial to keep her calm and reassure her that she is in the best possible care.
As a result of James providing the nurse with all of the critical information needed, Louise was able to start forming a relationship with Sally. This pre-interaction phase is crucial in building a rapport with the patient. “If the person doesn’t feel respected or safe they may withhold important details about their health, particularly if they feel they could be judged by revealing information that the nurse may not approve of.” (Berman, Kozier & Erb, n.d, 2015, p. 527) Failure to meet this pre-interaction stage may result in a misdiagnosis, in which (Berman, Kozier & Erb, n.d, 2015, p. 527) discusses may ultimately
