I believe communication is a key factor when dealing with anyone during the end-of-life cycle, particularly loved ones. The author outlined several recommendations but I would combine recommendation number one and two into a more specific point such as (Effective Therapeutic Communication) and then outline the subheading of empathy versus sympathy.
More often than we would like to admit, when someone is dying (in this case the author’s mother) we tend to show sympathy which I believe complicates the matter. As the author stated he utilized empathy instead of sympathy to deal with his mother’s frustration and anger. Perhaps, the author is correct in stating, information learned through education or higher level learning is essential in helping us cope with the inevitable taker of life “death.” Based on this understanding, I will make the presumption that the author was able to use effective communicate due to his level of knowledge.
Effective therapeutic communication is also illustrated in recommendation #2. No communication can be effective if it’s one sided, therefore listening to what is being said is an important and vital component of therapeutic communication. If the author made no attempt to listen to his mother, I can image the frustration and rollercoaster of emotions he would have to endure on a daily basis. But allowing his mother to express herself even when she was mumbling or rambling is commendable. Interestingly, the author’s mother expressed no reason for being upset and made it a point to open the door for communication about her feelings by stating “I need to understand why I feel so angry.” This part of the reading exemplified how effective communication can be if used appropriately. Further, it is an inviting way of building a trusting relationship. Formal and informal caregivers should practice therapeutic communication in their daily care of patients or loved ones to promote ease of transition during the end-of-life stage.
Kerline Leonard
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