Chapter 32 – Intro to Pediatrics (communication)
Components Of Effective Communication: In addition to words themselves, the tone
and quality of voice, eye contact, physical proximity, visual cues, and overall body
language convey messages. In choosing communication techniques to be used with
children and families, the nurse considers cultural differences, particularly with regard
to touch and personal space.
1. Touch: can convey warmth, comfort, reassurance, security, trust, caring, and support.
- Infants: holding, cuddling, gentle stroking, and patting.
- Toddlers and preschoolers: held, rocked, and stroked gently on the head, back,
Arms, and legs.
-School aged and Adolescents: hugs, pat on back or hand, need permission w/
Any other contact.
2. Physical Proximity and Environment: Nurse should look at things as the child would
(front desk, triage, hosp. room). Creating a supportive, inviting environment for children
includes the use of child-size furniture, colorful banners and posters, developmentally
appropriate toys, and art displayed at a child’s eye level. The nurse should bring a chair
and sit near the child and family (eye level). Do not overlook privacy or underestimate
its importance. Avoid hallway conversations, particularly outside child’s room.
3. Listening: is an essential component of the communication process. By practicing
active listening the nurse can be effective listeners.
- Active Listening:
1. Attentiveness: give speaker undivided attention, eliminating distractions,
maintain eye contact, and close the door.
2. Clarification through reflection: express to the speaker what was heard and
understood about the content of the message. Example: “I hate the food that comes on
my tray.” “You are unhappy with the food you’ve been given?”
3. Empathy: the nurse identifies and acknowledges feelings expressed in the
message. For example: child is crying after a procedure, the nurse might say, “I know it
is uncomfortable to have this procedure. It is okay to cry. You did a great job holding
still.”
4. Impartiality: understand and avoid prejudicing what is heard with personal
bias, the nurse listens with an open mind. For ex: an adolescent expressing she is
lesbian. During shift report, descriptions of family must be shared objectively and
impartially. Otherwise, perceptions of families may negatively affect how colleagues
approach and interact with families. Talk with the child not to them.
