This leading text offers practical guidance for effective interactions with clients, families, and professional colleagues - making it the definitive source on communication skills for nurses. This fourth edition uses a synthesis of proven communication strategies and principles drawn from nursing, psychology, and related theoretical frameworks. It also offers numerous experiential exercises. Numerous exercises in a procedural format are included throughout to offer readers the opportunity to practice, observe, and critically evaluate their communication skills and those of others. Case Examples create empathy for clients' perspectives and needs, and serve as a springboard for discussion. Critical thinking content is highlighted in the chapter on Clinical Judgement: Applying Critical Thinking and Ethical Decision Making and is applied throughout in exercises. A consistent organization introduces basic concepts first, followed by applications, and more emphasis on assessment. Communication is discussed across the lifespan. Communicating with clients with special needs is addressed in chapters on Communicating with Clients Experiencing Communication Deficits, Communicating with Clients in Stressful Situations, and Communicating with Clients in Crisis. The chapter on Communicating with Other Health Professionals promotes successful collaboration with representatives of a variety of health care disciplines. Humor, gender, and touch as they relate to interpersonal communication are discussed. The glossary provides detailed definitions of communication-related terminology used in the text Ethical Dilemma Boxes within each chapter highlight ethical dilemmas in interpersonal relationships. Completely updated and revised content is included on standards of documentation, new computerized technical information systems, NIC and NOC, and how to utilize these tools to provide clear written communication to other health professionals. Information on Healthy People 2010 has been added. Updated references include current and classic sources, as well as Internet resources for additional information.