Communication Interview

ANSWERS

The client interview is an essential part of nursing practice because it involves communicating with the client – who is considered the primary source – to collect subjective data (information that the client shares with you or the client’s family/friends). In addition to the client interview, data may be gathered from secondary sources such as family, friends, care partners, and other healthcare providers. It is a component of your assessment in which you learn about the client and combine this information with objective data (information you collect when performing a physical exam).

Because therapeutic communication and relationships are the foundation of an effective client interview, as a nurse, you must ensure that the client interview is informed by the CNO (2019) Standard on Therapeutic Nurse-Client Relationship. To meet this standard, you must carefully consider communicating with the client during the interview.

The significance of effective communication cannot be overstated. It is a fundamental tenet of a good interview. The interview is frequently used as a catalyst for therapeutic action. For example, if a client does not disclose chest pain, it will be difficult for you to determine what is wrong or ailing the client. Nurses’ care depends on the accuracy of the data they collect, so nurses must develop their relational skills to accurately and holistically collect valuable data from clients. When there is a lack of data, nurses are limited in their ability to provide adequate care. Clients, for example, may not share specific issues if they are unsure whether you care or are interested. Clients may also be afraid to reveal relevant health information for fear of being judged or ridiculed, which may impede your ability to address their health issues.

The purpose of the interview influences the nature of the discussion. An interview, for example, may be brief and focused, or it may be lengthy and in-depth, depending on the client’s health needs/reason for seeking care. The purpose of the interview is frequently influenced by where you work, such as in an acute or primary care setting. As detailed in the following sections, there are common principles and strategies to incorporate when conducting the interview, regardless of the purpose.

QUESTION

Communication Interview

You will conduct a professional interview with a staff nurse and a staff nurse leader to discover their intra/inter-professional communications styles.  It will be important to incorporate learning objectives regarding therapeutic communication styles including their method of caring, assertive, and responsible communication in your discussion/analysis of the interview.