Nonverbal Communication Skills Utilization among Nursing Students: Basis for Enhanced Patient- Communication Program

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the level of nonverbal communication utilization skills among nursing students and to examine its relationship with the selected demographic variables such as age, gender, place of origin, and year level. The findings served as a basis for developing an enhanced patient-communication program. Effective communication is the foundation of effective patient care. In clinical settings such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Psychiatric ward, and Medical-Surgical ward, patients often have difficulty expressing their needs verbally. Level 3 and 4 nursing students with extensive and specialized clinical exposure, must learn how to properly use nonverbal cues to improve patient interaction and care. A descriptive correlational and comparative research design was employed. Adapted and modified questionnaire was administered to 143 BSN Level III and IV students with clinical exposure in Psychiatric, MS, and ICU wards. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi Square Test, and Krus-Wallis Test. Findings showed that nonverbal communication was highly utilized with an overall mean score of 4.00. Vocalics had the highest level of utilization suggesting proficiency in using vocal modulation and empathetic tone as a therapeutic tool. Year level showed a weak significant relationship with kinesics utilization indicating use of body language, gestures, and facial expressions needs improvement as they advance academically. Notably, significant differences were found between vocalics utilization, age, and place of origin, suggesting that age - related experience and cultural or regional communication norms influence how students use vocal elements. The study suggests that nursing students who are level 3 and 4 demonstrated a high level of nonverbal communication utilization skills due to their academic advancement, exposure to specialized areas, and diverse patient populations. However, there are specific nonverbal skills that need further improvement. Hence, an enhanced patient-communication program is recommended to strengthen and promote effective use of nonverbal communication.