Ace the Ambulatory Care Nurse Exam 2026 – Blaze Your Trail in Healthcare!

The term that describes a situation where a nurse's verbal communication does not match their non-verbal communication is "incongruent." Incongruence occurs when there is a mismatch between what is said and how it is expressed physically, such as through body language, facial expressions, or gestures. This discrepancy can lead to misunderstandings and can affect the therapeutic relationship between a nurse and a patient, as patients may feel confused or distrustful if the verbal message does not align with non-verbal cues.

Recognizing and addressing incongruence is crucial in nursing practice to ensure effective communication and to foster trust and rapport with patients. The presence of incongruence can signal a deeper emotional state that needs to be explored, allowing for better patient care and understanding.