What counts as effective communication in nursing? Evidence from nurse educators' and clinicians' feedback on nurse interactions with simulated patients

Abstract

Aim: To examine the feedback given by nurse educators and clinicians on the quality of communication skills of nurses in interactions with simulated patients. Background: The quality of communication in interactions between nurses and patients has a major influence on patient outcomes. To support the development of effective nursing communication in clinical practice, a good understanding of what constitutes effective communication is helpful. Design: An exploratory design was used involving individual interviews, focus groups and written notes from participants and field notes from researchers to investigate perspectives on nurse-patient communication. Methods: Focus groups and individual i..