Question

Below is a conversation between a nurse and a patient.

Nurse (using eye contact): “Based on your test results, you have strep throat.”
Patient (weeping inconsolably): “I am never going to get better.”
Nurse: “We can prescribe antibiotics that will help you feel better.”
Patient: “Sure, like pumping me full of drugs will help.”
Nurse: “Try the antibiotics until they are finished, and see how you feel.”

Which best describes the communication between the nurse and the patient?
The nurse is using ineffective communication, and the patient is confused by her directions.
The patient is using ineffective communication by being sarcastic and overly emotional.
The patient is using only verbal communication.
The nurse is using only verbal communication.

Answer 1

The patient is using ineffective communication by being sarcastic and overly emotional.

Reason: the patient’s weeping is nonverbal emotional communication and her sarcastic remark undermines clear exchange. The nurse used both verbal information and eye contact (nonverbal) and gave clear instructions.