Challenges to communication: supporting the patients with SCI with their diagnosis and prognosis

This article discusses some of the common dilemmas that nurses experience when communicating with patients who have recently sustained a spinal cord injury. Drawing on the literature, this article highlights that the nurse's role in giving bad news is unique. Nurses are often in the position of clarifying information as patients become aware of their limitations. This awareness prompts the need for support for both patients and their families. Nurses must interact with patients during their adjustment to their losses, and this requires good communication skills. The experiences of other health professionals, particularly physicians, are helpful in providing guidance for nurses who reinforce information regarding the patient's diagnosis/prognosis. They must continue to interact with patients during their adjustment to their losses, and this requires good communication skills. This article offers insight into problems as well as strategies to assist nurses in developing their communication skills.