Therapeutic communication is a crucial and necessary tool that should be used on all occasions when dealing with a patient in the healthcare sector. I found the video vignette “Pregnant Stroke – Incident Scene” to be a good example of how therapeutic communication should be used to create a human connection between patient and professional. The video shows paramedics attending the scene of a woman who suffered a stroke while pregnant. Allied health professionals first perform a brief medical assessment of the patient by checking her vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate. Where possible, the paramedics asked the husband appropriate questions to better understand the history, the situation and how it could have happened. Through a systematic process, paramedics guide the patient and her husband through a difficult time, through the use of effective therapeutic communication. The paramedics showed immense empathy at the scene of the incident, which was demonstrated by the act of touching when necessary. From the patient's perspective, empathy shows them that we are sensitive and understanding of their situation. This form of therapeutic communication is subtle but very effective in gaining trust, allowing the patient to feel comfortable disclosing all information. (Sanders, 2012) The paramedic is also honest but sensitive to the husband's anxious requests regarding his wife and unborn child. Instead of providing false assurances, the rescuer insisted that additional tests be carried out before anything could be confirmed. Paramedical professionals adopted a similar stance and maintained an appropriate distance from the patient, thereby adding to the patient...... middle of paper ...... interpreted with the encoding or decoding process. (Sanders, 2012)Having the opportunity to view this video has given me a better understanding of why therapeutic communication is a fundamental part of healthcare, which will allow me in the future to build effective relationships with a variety different patients in different situations. I will strive to always be aware of my surroundings, use body language, be discerning in my choice of words, and be empathetic in my approach to any type of patient. These key elements are all part of the therapeutic communication process that works together to improve patient outcomes. Works Cited Giroux, J. (2013). Communication: establishing the human connection. Urological Nursing, 33(6), p. 265.Sanders, MJ, Lewis, LM, Quick, G., & Mckenna, K. (2012). The Mosby Paramedic Manual. St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier/Mosby Jems.