Crucial Conversations

The critical thinking framework mentioned in Chapter 7 includes assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation and evaluation. This is an effective way of conversing with the patient because the nurse will be clear on all objectives rather than being confused as to what to tell to a patient with a dangerous disease. Being clear on everything and having a critically analyzed report would help the nurse to clearly and easily handle difficult conversations. This also helps in future endeavors because the nurses have to make quick judgements most of the time that might help a person survive. With unexpected rise of a situation, a nurse with good critical thinking will easily be able to converse and handle a difficult situation (Grenny, Patterson, Switzler, & Macmillan, 2002).

Critical thinking mostly includes finding the faults; disagreements, arguments and questions might also be included in the process so in a way it challenges the status quo. Finding out the truth instead of assuming one's opinion and base a decision on it is more reliable and helps in forming an authentic mode of conversation with the patient. Critical thinking gives a lot of attention to words so they must be chosen carefully so that the message has its original meaning when conveying it. As stated in the book, critical can be developed and as a nurse, a lot of knowledge is gained by books and classes. The nurses have the chance to reflect on the experiences of other nurses. They can also use their mind maps as a learning tool for the development of critical thinking. Several case studies exist that can be thoroughly read in order to gain experience and act accordingly in a situation (Grenny, Patterson, Switzler, & Macmillan, 2002).

Chapter 8 mentions 'collaboration among organizational groups' which is a vital strategy to ease out a difficult conversation. Patients require involvement of several groups in a hospital which can only treat successfully if there is a positive collaboration between the departments. For example, nursing, and physical therapy are important parts of a patient's treatment (Grenny, Patterson, Switzler, & Macmillan, 2002); their policies and procedures are also similar so collaborating effectively will help them in a successful treatment of the patient rather than both the departments fighting over schedules and ruining the hospital's environment.

As a group, several roles are divided among the members so it can be functional and lead in order. These roles facilitate the members into running the group effectively and also contribute to the fulfillment of the task and development of relational requirements. Dividing these roles also work as therapeutic, and educational. Collaboration as mentioned above is important for the well-being of the patient, so it should be an important part of handling a situation. Communication should be done in a clear manner, so that the purpose is fulfilled without facing any serious problem.

Chapter 9 provides methods of decision making that will help the nurses in having a better conversation and decision-making ability (Grenny, Patterson, Switzler, & Macmillan, 2002). Consultation is a big part of decision making especially when it involves making a difference in the lives of several people. Readiness and learning are both important for a nurse who has to see new occurring on a daily basis. Several patients have a noncompliant behavior because they are not understood properly by the nurses or the doctor. A nurse then has to make sure to understand the patient and not treat them with threat or force. Behavior of a human changes effectively when there is involvement on a personal level.

Bibliography

Grenny, J., Patterson, K., Switzler, A., & Macmillan, R. (2002). Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. US: McGraw-Hill Education.