Family / Therapeutic Communication
?
Rivera, Marcus | ICU Day 2
Elena Rivera is standing close to Marcus's bed, straightening his blanket repeatedly. Marcus is restless and diaphoretic. Elena looks up when you enter, eyes red from crying.
Therapeutic Communication Rationale
You acknowledged Elena's fear without dismissing it, invited her to share rather than interrogating her, and responded to her disclosure with warmth instead of blame. That is the foundation of therapeutic communication with a family member who is scared and coping through minimization.
Elena did not disclose the seizure history on admission because she was afraid of judgment. Your approach gave her a reason to trust you.
🔑 Clinical information unlocked
Elena discloses that Marcus had a seizure at home approximately three years ago. You document this and flag it for the team.
Elena withdrew from the conversation.
Elena became quiet and stopped engaging. Important information about Marcus's history may have been missed.
Therapeutic communication with family members requires patience and a non-judgmental approach. When a family member feels blamed or dismissed, they stop sharing. In this case, that silence has clinical consequences.
Try again and focus on acknowledging Elena's feelings before redirecting to clinical questions.
Well done.
You uncovered critical history about Marcus. Take this card to your preceptor M. Torres.
Take card #?
?