How to use intentional silence
This article explains intentional silence, which can provide a therapeutic nursing presence that demonstrates compassion and respect for the patient.
Intentional silence can enhance the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and patient.
Intentional silence can be used to reduce the patient’s emotional lability by ensuring that they feel listened to.
It is important that nurses are able to respond therapeutically to rhetorical statements and/or those concerning serious or severe clinical circumstances.
The nurse can use intentional silence to support the patient in acknowledging, processing and reflecting on changes in their health.
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