What is the primary definition of communication in nursing?

The primary definition of communication in nursing is centered around the exchange of information. Communication is essential in nursing as it involves both verbal and non-verbal interactions with patients, their families, and other healthcare team members. Effective communication aids in understanding patient needs, sharing critical health information, and fostering a therapeutic relationship. It is the foundation of all interactions in healthcare, influencing patient care, safety, and outcomes.

While documenting patient care accurately is important, it is just one aspect of communication rather than its core definition. Similarly, administering medication is a technical process that relies on effective communication but does not define what communication is in a broader sense. Interactions between healthcare professionals are indeed a form of communication, but they represent a specific context rather than the overarching definition of the term within nursing. Thus, understanding communication as the exchange of information encompasses all these aspects and highlights its fundamental role in nursing practice.