Organizational, Interpersonal, and Group Communication Page 484
You are the nursing supervisor of an assisted living facility (ALF). Recently you have received multiple complaints from several residents about the lack of assistance and care they receive from one of the day shift nursing assistants (NAs). You are surprised because this NA received the “Employee of Year” award just last year. As the nursing supervisor, you must approach and discuss these complaints with the NA.
Question #1
Nonverbal communication is very powerful.
a) Identify at least four types of nonverbal communication.
b) Describe how your nonverbal behavior should be congruent with your verbal communication in this scenario.
Question #2
a) Explain how you will communicate effectively with the NA who is a different gender than yourself.
Guidelines:
- Initial post: Respond to the discussion questions posted in Discussion board by Monday (11:59pm) must be at least 150 to 200 words in length to earn credit for the assignment
- Peer response: Each Student must respond to at least (2) other students‘ INITIAL post (must be at least 100 words in length by Wednesday (11:59pm) to earn credit for the assignment
- The initial and response posts must each have a minimum of two (2) outside references (i.e., textbook, medical/nursing resources, etc.) to earn credit for assignment
- Cite your references APA 7th
Title: Organizational, Interpersonal, and Group Communication in Addressing Complaints in an Assisted Living Facility
Introduction: Organizational, interpersonal, and group communication are essential components in maintaining effective operations and quality care within healthcare settings, such as assisted living facilities (ALFs). This essay discusses two critical aspects of communication in the context of addressing residents’ complaints about a nursing assistant (NA) at an ALF.
Question #1: a) Nonverbal communication encompasses a wide range of cues that convey messages without words. In this scenario, it is crucial to identify four types of nonverbal communication:
- Facial Expressions: The nursing supervisor’s facial expressions should exhibit empathy, concern, and active listening while discussing the complaints with the NA. Maintaining a neutral or approachable facial expression can foster a non-threatening atmosphere for communication.
- Body Language: Gestures, posture, and body movements play a significant role in nonverbal communication. The supervisor should maintain an open and non-defensive posture to encourage the NA to express their perspective freely.
- Eye Contact: Appropriate eye contact indicates attentiveness and sincerity. The supervisor should make consistent but not intrusive eye contact to establish trust and convey active engagement in the conversation.
- Tone of Voice: The tone should match the verbal message. Using a calm and respectful tone is vital for discussing the complaints with the NA, ensuring that the message is received positively.
b) The nonverbal behavior of the nursing supervisor should align with their verbal communication in this scenario. Congruence between verbal and nonverbal cues is essential to establish credibility, trust, and understanding. In this case, if the supervisor conveys concern verbally but maintains a defensive posture or avoids eye contact, the NA may perceive inconsistency and insincerity, hindering effective communication. Ensuring that nonverbal cues align with the verbal message promotes clarity and trust in the dialogue.
Question #2: a) Effective communication with an NA of a different gender requires sensitivity and respect for gender-related cultural norms and differences. To communicate effectively, the nursing supervisor should:
- Recognize and acknowledge the individual’s gender identity and preferred pronouns, promoting a respectful and inclusive environment.
- Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes based on gender, ensuring that communication is free from bias or discrimination.
- Actively listen to the NA’s concerns, providing them with an opportunity to express their perspective and feelings without interruption.
- Use inclusive language that respects the NA’s gender identity and promotes a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.
Conclusion: Effective communication within healthcare organizations like ALFs is vital for addressing complaints, resolving issues, and maintaining the quality of care. Understanding nonverbal cues and adapting communication strategies to accommodate diverse backgrounds and genders are crucial skills for nursing supervisors to foster positive relationships and ensure the well-being of both residents and staff. By applying these principles, healthcare professionals can create a supportive and inclusive environment in which issues can be addressed and resolved effectively.