Effective Communication in High-Stress Environments

Course overview

This learning activity examines communication challenges in high-stress healthcare environments and provides evidence-based strategies for nurses to improve their communication effectiveness. It explores the neurophysiological effects of stress on communication, introduces structured frameworks (SBAR, CUS, I-PASS, TeamSTEPPS), and presents practical techniques like metacommunication and the REPAIR model for managing communication breakdowns. The learning activity emphasizes the importance of communication as a clinical competency that directly impacts patient outcomes, team effectiveness, and nurse wellbeing, particularly in the post-COVID healthcare landscape. It integrates research findings with practical applications, offering nurses specific approaches to develop communication resilience throughout their careers.