What it means
A therapeutic communication skill. The listener gives full attention, uses open body language and eye contact, notices feelings as well as words, and checks understanding by restating or clarifying ("You're saying that…"). It avoids interrupting, judging, giving advice too soon or changing the subject. It helps clients feel heard and helps the nurse gather accurate information.
For the nurse
Exam questions often reward the answer that reflects the client's feelings or asks them to say more, over answers that reassure, advise or explain away.
In a chart
"Client: 'I don't know how I'll manage at home.' Nurse: 'You're worried about managing on your own. Tell me more.'"
At a glance
| Spanish | escucha activa |
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Related terms
nonverbal communication
Sending messages without words, through facial expression, eye contact, posture, gestures, touch and tone of voice.
coping mechanism
A thought or action a person uses, on purpose or by habit, to handle stress or difficult feelings.
patient-centered
Built around the client's own needs, values and wishes, with the client as a full partner in decisions.