The benefits of triad communication in home health care

Triad communication can be used by the nurse to facilitate communication with a patient and a caregiver in home health care. The family members may be involved as listeners or in discussion with the patient, the nurse, or both. The caregiver is selected based on specific communication objectives and the third person's ability to assist in meeting these objectives. Triad communication can (a) support the family and patient, (b) increase the caregiver's understanding, (c) increase compliance, (d) increase the nurse's understanding, (e) reinforce instruction, (f) decrease manipulation, (g) promote communication between family members, and (h) facilitate positive patient-family relationships.