Resources >> Browse Articles >> New Nurse
Resources >> Browse Articles >> On the Job
Body Language Every Nurse Should Know
Got any other nonverbal body language tips?
Featured Author:
Scrubs Magazine
Scrubs Magazine is the lifestyle website for and about nurses. Here you’ll find weekly giveaways, “best of” lists, and both the lighter side and the serious side of nursing with cartoons, scrubs style DOs and DON’Ts, beauty, health and wellness. Scrubsmag.com also features revealing stories from nurse bloggers ranging from a newly minted nurse to a seasoned RN to a misunderstood male nurse. Follow us on Twitter and join our conversation on Facebook.
More articles from this author:
Vlad Zachary | Scrubs Magazine
In the health care setting, life-or-death situations can spell high-flying emotions — not just from patients, but from team members and your nurse manager.
This guide to body language will help you “read” what a person may not necessarily be telling you. For example, want to know the secrets that your manager’s body language may be telling you? The nonverbal cues of different cultures? How about 3 easy ways body language can improve your work day, every day?
And consider this: When you study the postures of others, you also become more aware of your own behaviors. That way, you can modify your own body language for better communication.
Patients
Watch for these 5 subtle signs that may indicate your patient is in distress:
1. The “turtle effect”
The patient’s shoulders are one of the key indicators of weakness, insecurity and negative emotions. When the shoulders are rising toward the ears, they cause what is known in psychology as the “turtle effect,” and it’s a sure sign that the patient needs some kind of attention.
2. Hand wringing
Another universal sign that someone is stressed and concerned is hand wringing. Watch for white knuckles — if someone is clenching that tightly, they need something… and you’d better find out what it is.
3. The chin tuck
When we’re concerned for ourselves, or confidence is low, the chin will tuck in — forcing the nose down. This can be a sign of emotional or physical distress, so again, we’d better check.
4. Simultaneous reaction
Watch for the timing of protective body language such as crossing of arms or looking away. If these body cues coincide while you’re asking them a question, there may be something they’re hiding or uncomfortable discussing.
5. Eye Contact
If your patient avoids or will not hold your gaze, he or she may be feeling anxious.
metot
almost 3 years ago
2308 comments
very nice
resheaanne
almost 3 years ago
14 comments
Thank you! I appreciate you sharing this article.