Communication

[JessyHsn]

Met my pt today during pre-assessment, and I couldn't understand a thing he said. I take care of him tomorrow in clinical and I have no idea how I'll be able to do it if I can't communicate effectively with him. What can I do to make it easier?

[RN403, BSN, RN]

What is the reasoning behind the communication issue (English not being their primary language, issues with speech r/t stroke)? You could try utilizing communication tools such as a whiteboard if your patient is able to. Have them write out what they are trying to say. Follow what the primary RN and other staff members do as far as communication with the patient goes.

It is frustrating sometimes for both ends when there is difficulty with communication. Just be patient, utilize communication tools as appropriate, and be empathetic towards your patient. You can do this. This will be a great learning experience.

[JessyHsn]

Thank you so much for the encouragement. It didn't go nearly as bad as I thought it would. I actually could make out a lot of what he was trying to tell me on clinical day. I took the time to listen to him. I think I was just overly nervous since I'm still new at this nursing stuff and I hadn't had a lot of experiences with pts yet, and when I walked in the other day to meet him for the first time and couldn't understand him, I just panicked.

[RN403, BSN, RN]

Glad to hear! Taking the time to listen to a patient can work wonders when it comes to communication. A little patience goes a long way. I am sure this was a great learning experience for you that you can use in future scenarios.