When a patient expresses fear about a procedure, which approach reflects therapeutic communication?

• A. Dismissing the fear and rushing to the procedure.
• B. Practice active listening, acknowledge feelings, provide clear explanations, invite questions, involve the patient in decisions, and document.
• C. Provide only a technical explanation without checking understanding.
• D. Ignore questions and avoid documenting.

Answer: (B)

Therapeutic communication with a patient who is fearful about a procedure centers on validating emotions and supporting understanding. It means actively listening, acknowledging the fear, and offering clear, honest information about what will happen, including steps, risks, and benefits. It also involves inviting questions, involving the patient in decisions about the plan when possible, and documenting the discussion and any consent given. This approach helps the patient feel heard and respected, reduces anxiety by resolving uncertainties, supports informed consent, and enhances safety through shared decision-making and clear records.

Dismissing the fear and rushing the procedure skips empathy and consent, which can undermine trust. Providing only a technical explanation without checking understanding leaves the patient unsure and unlikely to grasp what to expect. Ignoring questions and avoiding documentation neglects autonomy and safety, increasing the risk of miscommunication and dissatisfaction.