Developing skills in communication —1: an interactive approach

Abstract

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION in nursing has always been recognised, but until recently this recognition has not been translated into action. Events over the past two decades have, however, brought into sharper focus the need to develop communication skills to a higher level. Organisational changes have brought nurses into closer contact with other professional and occupational groups. Nurses therefore need to be articulate and assertive when speaking for nursing concerns in multi-disciplinary teams. The growth of industrial relations legislation requires interviewing skills, and in the competition for limited resources in the present economic climate, negotiating skills are an advantage. To turn to direct nursing care: nurses today are dealing with a more informed and, in some instances, demanding clientele, and skill in handling potentially sensitive interpersonal situations is a valuable asset. Last but not least, the introduction of the nursing process has re-emphasised the importance of communication. A notable increase in requests for courses and resources in communication skills received at the Learning Resources Unit in Sheffield during the past year indicates a growing awareness of the need for further training.