Nurses form strong, trusting relationships with patients by spending consistent one-on-one time at the bedside. This trust allows them to understand patient needs more deeply and advocate effectively, while also guiding and supporting loved ones through the care process.
While monitoring patient data and physical improvements is a significant part of the job, emotional and mental well-being are no less important. BMC notes that psychosocial distress affects patient recovery and can contribute to physical symptoms like pain. Nurses are uniquely positioned to support patients emotionally and can enhance these skills through the online Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program from Lamar University.
Giving Support
Nurses spend a substantial amount of time with the patients in their care. Patients often express more negative thoughts, moods and behaviors after visiting hours end, leaving nurses as their sole source of support during these times.
Illness, injury, trauma or a terminal diagnosis can all cause setbacks to a patient’s psychosocial health. PubMed found that patients may experience depression, anxiety, despair and disturbed body image while receiving care. Patients can feel alone in their experience despite having a strong support network of family and friends.
How Nurses Can Help
The best thing a nurse can do is develop strong communication and assessment skills. Recognizing the indicators of a less-than-optimal psychosocial state allows the nurse to know when to intervene. Observation is a useful tool to interpret when a patient might want to talk about their thoughts and feelings about an injury or illness.
Some nurses may feel ill-equipped to have these kinds of discussions, not knowing how to lead a conversation on such topics. Taking a few minutes to ask questions and listen is an excellent way to identify what specific challenges each patient is facing. Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the traditions and spiritual practices of patients in the area can provide the nurse with information about priorities and taboos.
Areas that have a high incidence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) require an insight into signals of distress or potential barriers to healing. Developing strong communication skills is essential to effectively navigate these sensitive and challenging conversations. Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program equips nurses with the ability to assess sociological, psychological, cultural and familial factors in treatment. The curriculum also covers community care and communication skills, helping nurses learn how to start conversations, listen carefully and understand patients’ values to provide better emotional support.
Some topics and concerns that come up during discussions with patients and their families may fall outside your scope of practice. In these cases, resources within your organization, community and state can provide valuable support to the entire patient care team.
Emotional Support and Patient Outcomes
Studies have been conducted to assess the effects of emotional support on patient outcomes. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reported on a 2023 systematic review examining psychological interventions for surgical patients. The study found that those who received psychological support experienced significantly lower levels of postsurgical pain and anxiety compared to those who received standard care.
Cost effectiveness is paramount for healthcare facilities and insurance companies. Addressing psychosocial aspects of patient health can help reduce the length of stay after procedures and treatments. Healthy minds and happy hearts have been proven to contribute to recovery. By developing holistic care skills through Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program, nurses create meaningful connections that improve patient outcomes and enhance their own job satisfaction and professional growth.
Learn more Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program.
