In terms of nursing care, what does therapeutic communication involve?

Therapeutic communication is a fundamental aspect of nursing care, particularly in mental health settings. It involves the use of verbal and non-verbal techniques to promote understanding and build rapport with patients. This approach emphasizes empathy, active listening, and the ability to convey genuine concern and support, facilitating a safe space for patients to express their thoughts and feelings.

Through effective therapeutic communication, nurses can gain insights into a patient's experiences and concerns, which can aid in assessment and treatment planning. The use of both verbal techniques, such as asking open-ended questions and providing feedback, and non-verbal techniques, like maintaining eye contact and appropriate body language, enhances the nurse-patient relationship, making it a critical component of mental health care.

Other options, such as using medication or physical restraints, do not fit within the realm of therapeutic communication. While structured communication might be necessary in some contexts, therapeutic communication's primary goal is to foster understanding and rapport rather than control or manage behavior through coercive means. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the essential role of effective communication in nursing, particularly in mental health contexts.