"You cannot not communicate." This sentence by the famous philosopher Paul Watzlawick shows how important communication is in every moment of our lives. It is particularly indispensable in care.

Imagine you enter the room of a new patient, Mr. Becker, who barely speaks. The room is quiet, only the regular beeping of the monitor can be heard. Mr. Becker is lying in bed, fumbling nervously for his water bottle, which he can't find. You go to him and speak calmly: "Mr. Becker, let me help you." At the same time, you gently place a hand on his shoulder and hand him the bottle. His face relaxes and he nods gratefully. In this moment, you sense how communication - even without many words - can create trust and security.

In this article, you'll learn how to improve your care communication skills to reduce anxiety, strengthen relationships and provide empathetic care.

What is communication?

Communication means exchanging information between a sender and a receiver. But it is far more than just a technical process. It is the basis for building relationships and understanding your patients better.

Whether verbal, non-verbal or written - every type of communication helps the other person to feel safe and understood. Communication in nursing is not just the exchange of facts, but also an essential part of building relationships.

Types of communication in nursing

Verbal communication

Verbal communication includes spoken and written language. Your tone of voice, volume and choice of words influence how your messages are understood.

Example: Imagine you are explaining the course of a treatment to a patient. If you use simple, understandable terms such as "nausea" instead of "nausea", she will feel more confident and respected.

Nonverbal communication

Body language is often stronger than words. A smile, a nod or an open posture can express a lot.

Example: Mrs. Meier, who suffers from dementia, seems confused and withdrawn when you greet her in the morning. But when you sit down with her, smile gently at her and hold her hand, her face relaxes and she begins to smile. Later in the day, she greets you by herself - a sign of newfound confidence.

Basics of communication in nursing

Active listening

Listen carefully and summarize what you have heard to avoid misunderstandings.

Show empathy

Put yourself in the shoes of the people you care for in order to better understand their needs.

Clarity

Communicate precisely and simply to build trust.

Respect

Respect the dignity and values of your patients.

Cultural aspects of nursing communication

Cultural differences can influence communication. While in Western countries the focus is on working together as partners, patients from other cultures often expect the nurse to make decisions.

Practical examples:

• Mr. Yamamoto, an elderly Japanese patient, avoids direct eye contact. Instead of pushing him, you accept his behavior and show cultural sensitivity.
• Mrs. Khan, A patient from Pakistan expects decisions to be discussed with her family. You talk to her daughter to understand her wishes and strengthen her trust in your care.

Barriers in communication

Language barriers

Use interpreters or simple visual aids to make communication easier.

Sensory limitations

Adapt your communication, e.g. through sign language or white space:pre-wrap;">. e.g. through sign language or visual aids.

Cognitive impairments

Use short, clear sentences to avoid misunderstandings with people with dementia.

Giving and receiving feedback

Giving feedback

Stay specific and factual. Use I-messages to formulate criticism respectfully.

Accept feedback

Listen carefully and use feedback to develop yourself further.

Communication models in nursing

The 4-ears model by Schulz von Thun

Each message has four levels:

• Subject level: What is said (facts).
• Relationship layer: What the message says about the relationship.
• Self-revelation: What the sender reveals about themselves.
• Appell: What the sender wants to achieve.

Carl Rogers' basic attitudes

• Empathy: Feel with your patients.
• Acceptance: Respect the people you care for.
• Congruence: Be authentic and honest in your behavior.

Communication in special situations

Foster care

Communicating with dying patients requires sensitivity. Listen, take fears seriously and support relatives in saying goodbye.

Crisis situations

Calm and clear communication is essential in the event of a sudden death. Answer questions patiently and offer support.

Training and education

Communication training

Exercises and role-plays can help you improve your skills.

Intercultural Competence

Training makes you aware of cultural differences and gives you practical tips.

Communication is at the heart of care. It enables you to build trust, avoid misunderstandings and create an appreciative relationship with your patients. Use your verbal and non-verbal skills to increase the well-being of the people you care for - with empathy, clarity and respect.

Nora's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Empathy: The ability to empathize with the feelings of others.
• Congruence: Authenticity and consistency between inner attitude and outer behavior.
• Nonverbal communication: Body language, facial expressions and gestures that convey information without words.
• Intercultural Communication: Exchange between people of different cultural backgrounds.
• Active listening: Concentrated listening with the aim of really understanding the person you are talking to.