Nurses’ Communication with Patients: Examining Relational Communication Dimensions and Relationship Satisfaction

Effective communication between nurse and patient is paramount in establishing the relationship that provides the basis for patient care that influences healthcare outcomes. This study examined the dimensions of nurse-patient relational communication, identified the importance of nurses’ use of patient-preferred Relational Preference behaviors, and explored nurses’ satisfaction with nurse-patient interactions. The Nurse-Patient Communication Survey instrument asked nurses to recall a specific communication event with a patient. Responses implied a two-dimensional model of nurse-patient communication composed of caring and composure. Nurses had high levels of relational satisfaction that were positively and significantly associated with the use of Relational Preference behaviors. Post hoc testing revealed the caring communication dimension significantly contributed to nurses’ overall satisfaction with patient relationships.