Which technique in communication empowers the patient to express potential solutions and promotes self-esteem?

The technique that empowers the patient to express potential solutions and promotes self-esteem is reflecting. This technique involves actively listening to the patient and then mirroring back what they have said, often in a way that emphasizes their feelings and thoughts. By reflecting, the nurse validates the patient's experiences and emotions, creating a safe space for them to explore their thoughts more deeply.

This process encourages the patient to think critically about their situation and consider their own potential solutions. Rather than simply providing answers or guidance, reflecting allows the patient to take an active role in their care, thereby enhancing their confidence and self-esteem in handling their own issues. This engagement fosters independence and reinforces the patient's ability to make decisions about their health and wellbeing. As a result, reflecting serves not just as a communication technique but also as a vital therapeutic tool in the nurse-patient relationship.