Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Providing competent care through a therapeutic relationship relies heavily on what skills?

1. Critical thinking skills

2. Technical skills

3. Therapeutic communication skills

4. Financial management skills

The correct answer is: Therapeutic communication skills

A therapeutic relationship is fundamental in nursing practice as it fosters trust, understanding, and effective communication between the nurse and the patient. Therapeutic communication skills are essential because they enable nurses to engage with patients in a meaningful way, facilitating open dialogue that encourages patients to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. This type of communication is characterized by active listening, empathy, and appropriate verbal and non-verbal responses, which help build rapport and create a safe environment for the patient. In this context, therapeutic communication skills are what empower nurses to assess and address the needs of patients comprehensively. They play a crucial role in gathering information, providing emotional support, and encouraging patient participation in their own care. Such skills are vital for establishing a connection where the patient feels valued and understood, which can significantly enhance the overall quality of care provided. While critical thinking skills are important for making informed clinical decisions, and technical skills are necessary for performing nursing procedures effectively, it is the ability to communicate therapeutically that truly elevates the nurse-patient relationship and contributes to better health outcomes. Financial management skills, though useful in a broader healthcare context, are not directly relevant to forming therapeutic relationships in clinical practice.