Communication Skills of Emergency Nurses and Their Effect on Patient Safety

Abstract

Effective communication is a fundamental competency for emergency nurses, directly influencing patient safety, care quality, and clinical outcomes. Emergency departments are high-pressure environments where rapid decision-making, accurate information transfer, and collaboration among healthcare professionals are critical. Miscommunication can lead to medical errors, compromised patient safety, and decreased patient satisfaction, highlighting the essential role of nurses’ communication skills. This paper explores the theoretical frameworks, factors influencing communication, and practical strategies that enhance communication effectiveness in emergency nursing. Emphasis is placed on verbal, non-verbal, and written communication, patient education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the use of structured protocols such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation). Evidence from recent studies indicates that communication training, continuous professional development, and organizational support significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce errors. Recommendations include implementing standardized communication protocols, fostering teamwork, involving patients in care decisions, and utilizing technology to support accurate information transfer. By strengthening communication competencies, emergency nurses contribute to safer, patient-centered, and high-quality care. This study underscores that communication is not merely a professional skill but a critical determinant of patient safety and overall healthcare effectiveness in emergency settings