Asking questions
effective questioning
Saves time Collects more pertinent and useful information Enables a more effective interviewing experience Ensures that you collect the data you need to provide quality nursing care
who of asking questions
if your client is able to speak for themselves, they are the ones you should address your questions to. if patient is unable to answer, determine a S/O who is most relevant. also depends on whether you are looking for the perspective of the client or of a close family member/friend.
Why of asking questions
irrelevant questions sends the message that you're unfocused ask "how will the information i am seeking direct me in helping my clients?" when your clients understand your purpose, they will be more likely to answer your questions
where of asking questions
it is often difficult to secure a completely private place to interview your client. try to get a secure, private place free of distractions
mystery interview
let your client know why you are conducting interviews and assessments. it makes them feel connected and respected when we give them feedback on the problem-solving process. Make it known the data and questions are going to help problem-solve
to secure data that are essential to providing quality care to clients
main reason for asking questions
how to ask questions
phase your question clearly and have a logical progression, do it in a way that invites your clients to answer reassure confidentiality
what of asking questions
plan what to ask to ensure you are clear in your intentions
who, what, when, where, why, and how
six questions you need to consider in order to obtain the facts needed
when of asking questions
time when you won't be interrupted by phone calls, noise, other clients, agency activities, or visitors. looking to limit distractions. quiet time, unhurried part of day
incomprehensible and cryptic codes
using jargon only adds confusion. ask questions worded clearly in a language they will understand. asking questions in plain english increases the probability that clients will understand and answer you
offensive misuse of why
using why tends to make clients feel threatened. an aggressive tactic. may force client to become defensive, curt, or protective
thunder stealer
when we jump in with our ideas and viewpoints before giving the clients a chance to speak. zealousness can be intimidating to clients and prevent them from expressing their opinions. gives them the idea that we think what we have to say is more important than what they believe
misuse of open and closed questions
closed questions elicit brief, specific responses from the client. open questions invite respondents to elaborate however they choose. asking open ended questions provides you with more useful information and a better understanding of your client's perspective
long-winded build-up, thunder stealer, multiple choice mix-up, incomprehensible and cryptic codes, offensive misuse of why, misuse of open and closed questions, mystery interview
common tactical errors in asking questions
importance of asking questions
demonstrates interest and respect, asking thought provoking questions can cause clients to think critically about their health and self-care, encouraging clients to ask questions encourages shared decision making and may improve client satisfaction
long-winded buildup
don't go overboard when explaining reasoning for questions. run the risk of confusing and boring our listener. Keep It Short and Simple. don't be redundant, wordy, or too detailed--detracts from the task
continuing to build your skills in asking questions
end with a question that invites further disclosure, remember sometimes silence is golden, make your questioning assertive and responsible, always be respectful
multiple choice mix-up
firing a list of questions at a client. confuses them and leaves them not knowing which to answer first. give patient's one question at a time, allowing them to think in between
