Tomrorow I have to talk to a REAL PERSON!

squee-gee · Aug 30, 2007

Hi - I was just thinking about my first "therapeutic communication" with a patient the other day. That was two semesters ago - but it seems as though it was much, much longer! I was soo nervous about going into that room for the first time. In a way, these exercises are more difficult than what RN's in the real world do. They don't have to think of things to say - they are naturally discussing the patient's condition, their health history, living situation, etc., which would precipitate further conversation.

Of course, it does get easier with time. That doesn't help you for tomorrow, but keep it in the back of your mind that soon you'll be waltzing into patients rooms with ease.

In the meantime, try to have a nice smile on your face when you are first introduced. Be polite and courteous (shake hands, etc.). Remember, she's lived a long life, so ask if she had a job? Husband? Children? Grandkids? Where was she raised? Hobbies? Any cooking specialties? How does she like where she's living? Chances are she'll want to hear about why you are in NS, and your past OR experience. You could even share with her the fact that you're a little nervous - maybe she is too.

Hopefully after you've broken the ice you will be able to relax and have a great session. Good Luck!

Crux1024 · Aug 30, 2007

Hi - I was just thinking about my first "therapeutic communication" with a patient the other day. That was two semesters ago - but it seems as though it was much, much longer! I was soo nervous about going into that room for the first time. In a way, these exercises are more difficult than what RN's in the real world do. They don't have to think of things to say - they are naturally discussing the patient's condition, their health history, living situation, etc., which would precipitate further conversation.
Of course, it does get easier with time. That doesn't help you for tomorrow, but keep it in the back of your mind that soon you'll be waltzing into patients rooms with ease.
In the meantime, try to have a nice smile on your face when you are first introduced. Be polite and courteous (shake hands, etc.). Remember, she's lived a long life, so ask if she had a job? Husband? Children? Grandkids? Where was she raised? Hobbies? Any cooking specialties? How does she like where she's living? Chances are she'll want to hear about why you are in NS, and your past OR experience. You could even share with her the fact that you're a little nervous - maybe she is too.
Hopefully after you've broken the ice you will be able to relax and have a great session. Good Luck!

Thanks! That honestly made me feel better..:)

:balloons:

locolorenzo22, BSN, RN · Aug 30, 2007

I remember mine......it was in a senior high-rise with volunteers who wanted us to come in and talk to them....we showed up to a room full of young-old people who wanted to talk our ears off...and we let them. My lady was from the area, had a husband who worked in a factory nearby, and just didn't want to leave.

We talked about family, work, careers, news, just about whatever for 1.5 hours...I even got a tour of her little apartment.

You'll be fine, just talk to her like any other elderly person and you'll do great.