Example of effective communication

If you tell the physician your concerns in a manner that would not hurt his pride or would insult him, you will be able to come in to an understanding in a particular situation.

Aggressive communication would only lead to bickering and would create conflict between two parties. But you must have to take into consideration the most important party involved – the patient.

An example would be this:

On one of her evening shifts, Nurse Sally Stevens, an R.N. with 17 years of nursing experience, was caring for a new patient, a 46-year-old female diabetic, who was suffering from tremors due to a bout of Lithium toxicity. After an i.v. was started, the patient, Miss Hawkins, developed some kidney complications, prompting doctors to bring in a renal specialist. After reviewing her charts, the specialist ordered an i.v. containing dextrose.

Knowing that the dextrose could negatively affect her patient’s diabetic condition, Nurse Sally voiced her concerns. In a non-aggressive tone, Nurse Sally said, “Doctor, Miss Hawkins’ blood sugar was 315 at 4pm. I noticed that you’ve changed her i.v. fluids to Dextrose. Do you want to change the i.v. fluids?”

Because of Nurse Sally’s ability to communicate effectively, Miss Hawkins received the best possible medical care.

Taken from: http://ezinearticles.com/?Positive,-Assertive-Pushback-For-Nurses&id=984220