COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES AGE GROUP

Question 1

Infant communication techniques

Answer 1

1. Infants respond to nonverbal communication behaviors of adults, such as holding, rocking, patting, cuddling, and touching.
2. Use a slow approach, and allow the infant to get to know the nurse.
3. Use a calm, soft, soothing voice.
4. Be responsive to cries.
5. Talk and read to infants.
6. Allow security objects such as blankets and paci-
   ers if the infant has them.

Question 2

Toddler communication techniques

Answer 2

1. Approachthetoddlercautiously.
2. Remember that toddlers accept the verbal communications of others literally.
3. Learn the toddler’s words for common items and use them in conversations.
4. Use short, concrete terms.
   5.Prepare the toddler for procedures immediately before the event.
5. Repeatexplanationsanddescriptions.
6. Useplayfordemonstrations.

Question 3

Preschool communication techniques

Answer 3

1. Seek opportunities to offer choices.
2. Speak in simple sentences.
3. Be concise and limit the length of explanations.
4. Allow asking questions.
5. Describe procedures as they are about to be performed.
6. Use play to explain procedures and activities.
7. Allow the handling of equipment or instru-
   ments, which will ease fear and help to answer
   questions.

Question 4

School Age communication techniques

Answer 4

1. Establish limits.
2. Provide reassurance to help in alleviating fears and anxieties.
3. Engage in conversations that encourage thinking.
4. Use medical play techniques.
5. Use photographs, books, dolls, and videos to explain procedures.
6. Explain in clear terms.
7. Allow time for composure and privacy.

WHY QUESTIONS

Question 5

Adolescent communication techniques

Answer 5

1. Remember that the adolescent may be preoccupied with body image.
2. Encourage and support independence.
3. Provide privacy.
4. Use photographs, books, and videos to explain procedures.
5. Engage in conversations about the adolescent’s interests.
6. Avoid becoming too abstract, too detailed, and too technical.
7. Avoid responding by prying, confronting, condescending, or expressing judgmental attitudes.