Which action by the nurse demonstrates effective communication with a patient?

Asking open-ended questions and actively listening is a cornerstone of effective communication in nursing. This approach encourages the patient to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns freely. Open-ended questions allow for a more in-depth understanding of the patient's experience, fostering an environment where the patient feels valued and heard. Active listening involves not just hearing the words spoken, but also understanding the emotions and context behind them, which can significantly enhance the nurse-patient relationship.

This method contributes to building trust, which is essential for successful patient interactions and can lead to improved health outcomes. By engaging the patient in this way, the nurse can gather more comprehensive information, tailor care to the individual needs of the patient, and facilitate shared decision-making, all of which promote a patient-centered approach to care.