Abstract
Empathy is a social-affective dimension at the very base of interaction and relationships (Cunico, Satrori, Marognolli & Meneghini, 2012). Understanding how others see the world is an important way to becoming a more effective communicator (Adler, Rolls & Proctor II. 2018). Empathy plays a large role in nurse/client relationships, is the quality responsible in establishing a caring environment (Cunico et al, 2012), and provides health care professionals the ability/ capacity to improve patient outcomes. (Heidke, Howie &Tabassum, 2018; Ozcan, Oflaz, &SutcuCicek, 2010). Empathy must be the essence of every nurse/patient encounter. (Ward, Cody, Schall, &Hojat, 2012) and can be the difference between the experience of a cold, sterile experience and one that has a truly human interaction. (LaRocco, 2010). The relationship between nurse and patient is fundamental to the art and science of nursing and its significance to nursing is synonymous with the profession (Ward et al, 2012). There is discussion regarding the increase in technical/diagnostic/therapeutic skills nurses are required to have that may affect the humanistic elements of nursing care and this is becoming more evident as technology becomes more prevalent in our lives. Technology is all around us and is an important way in which people take part in conversations within their area of interest, establish their expertise, and construct an online identity. People everywhere are posting their thoughts, opinions, photos, and videos and people everywhere have opinions about their posts. As this form of communication morphs and expectations change, we need to be aware of the implications of our actions online, as once an item is online, it is out of our hands.To be in successful relationships with others, one’s communication skills must be developed and honed, including one’s ability to communicate professionally and effectively within Social Media spaces.
Critical thinking and communication skills are taught in nursing schools but empathy may be the most difficult skill to teach. An important aspect to developing empathic skills/competencies comes through the development of the awareness of cognitive processes, not just emotional processes (Adler et al, 2018).
In this presentation, we will discuss the importance of active learning activities and well developed assignments to support students in developing their empathy and communication skills. Audience will learn about current literature in teaching empathy to nursing students including cognitive and emotional domains.Also understand the added layer of teaching students in this digital age regarding student in empathy and interpersonal communication. Nurses in practice will better understand students today and their unique learning needs and the importance of integrating theory into their practice.