Effectiveness of Communication Skills Training Program on Empathetic Skill and Communication Self Efficacy of Pediatric Oncology Nurses

Abstract

Effective communication usually reduces stress, anxiety, and uncertainty in patients and simultaneously influences the rate of patients’ recovery, ability to comply with treatments, and psychosocial adjustment. The aim of this study was evaluating effectiveness of communication skills training program on empathetic skill and self efficacy of pediatric oncology nurses. Study design. This study was a quasi experimental research design. Setting. The study was conducted at inpatient departments of both hematology and oncology units of pediatric hospital affiliated to Ain shams university hospitals. Subjects. The study subjects consisted of forty one pediatric oncology nurses. Data collection tools: -Socio-demographic structured questionnaire, Communication Self efficacy questionnaire, Empathy and Communication Skills Performances Checklist. Results: the majority of nurses were females and more half of them didn't participate before in in-service training. There was a highly significant difference between pre and post test regarding communication skills, empathetic and communication self efficacy. The study concluded that there was a significant improvement in nurses' communication and empathetic skills after implementing communication skill training. The reached recommendation was future research to assess relationship between communication skills and professionalism among pediatric oncology nurses.