Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Communication Training [SFCT] on Nurses Communication Skills

Effective communicating is not only one of the patient’s most important needs, but also is the base of nursing work. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of solution-focused communication techniques on nurse communication skills. In this quasi-experimental [before-after] study, one group of 71 male and female nurses from medical-surgical departments of a hospital in Tehran participated. Solution-focused Communication techniques in a one-day workshop [8 hours] were trained. Nurse’s communication skills were assessed by questionnaire at pre-test and post-test [two months after the intervention]. Reliability was confirmed with correlation coefficient [α=0.86] through inter-rater reliability. For any participant, three questionnaires were completed [by themselves, their head nurse & their colleagues]. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics. The mean score of nurse's communication skills before and after the intervention found statistically significant differences [P= 0/001]. Statistically significant differences were also observed between mean scores of the four subscales of nurse's communication skills before and after the intervention [P=0/001]. Solution-focused communication training [SFCT] for nurses could have a positive effect on different aspects of their communication skills, containing; general and therapeutic communication, spiritual supporting and their attitudes toward communicating with patients.