Communication is a critical skill in nursing care. It is the process by which humans meet their survival needs, build relationships, and experience joy. In nursing, communication is used to gather information to teach, persuade and express caring and comfort. Staff who communicate effectively are better able to initiate change that promotes health, establish a trusting relationship with residents and other support persons, and prevent legal problems associated with providing care. Effective communication is also essential for establishing therapeutic relationships. This course will review communication and its process, types and modes of communication, barriers to communication, therapeutic communication techniques, and therapeutic relationships.