An approach that can be referred to as a double-edged sword in the nurse-patient relationship: The use of humor

Dear Editor,

Humor is an important tool in the nursing profession as it not only enhances the patient’s experience but also the general health of nurses. Since, the providers of healthcare exposed services to are pressure, usually it is right to state that humor is one of the essential factors that can be used in the course of work to reduce stress and in promote nursing the is process an of well recovery. established concept with numerous proven Humor advantages.[1] The studies have also revealed that laughter is capable of lowering stress by limiting the secretion of stress hormones and increasing the ability of caregivers and patients to cope. For patients, humor can help to reduce the severity of pain or distress by lessening the anxiety levels and providing an outlet for emotional discharge during illnesses.[2] Several research works have confirmed that humor improves the patients’ quality of life and therefore, improves the coping mechanisms that are necessary for recovery.

Humor creates an atmosphere where patients can be relaxed, supported, and more forthcoming to their caregivers. Tanay, Roberts, and Ream say humor shared in a trustful nurse-patient relationship serves as an increasing closeness or solidarity, also as a coping tool during periods of stress. Comfortable, relaxed atmosphere created by using humor can be powerful to improve the quality of interactions.[3] The importance of effective nurse-patient relationships cannot be overestimated in the process of delivering health care and yielding the best possible results for patients. Humor contributes to trust as nurses and patients communicate on human levels. This puts patients in a comfortable setting and less threatened by their health issues and hospital environments, hence can discuss problems. The barriers between a patient and a nurse are usually minimized when both parties are sharing a laugh, hence improving communication, which is conducive to the treatment process for support.[4] The nurses applying humor appropriately mediate some of the stresses that accompany the clinical events of a situation, hence positive interaction. For example, a nurse may use light-hearted humor regarding common hospital experiences to help break the ice and give them better rapport during assessments. Such moments of connection can enhance the therapeutic relationship, leading to improved patient compliance and satisfaction with care.[5]

While humor is useful in so many ways in clinical practice, the nurses must be extra cautious not to fall prey to misinterpretation or tactless humor. The ethical issues of humor in health care revolve around an understanding of when and how to put the idea across. Humor on sensitive topics or situations risk alienating or offending the patients and hence are a violation of respect for dignity.[6] To negotiate this, the nurse should understand the cultural background of the patient regarding humor and individual preferences of the patients. For example, some humor can be seen as offensive or inappropriate based on the cultural context of the patient. Besides, the humor should concern the common human experience rather than personal characteristics and health issues that can have a negative impact. With the incorporation of several strategies into practice, nurses can develop their humor skills and identify opportunities for using humor appropriately.[3] By remaining attuned to patient cues, if a patient seems responsive to light-hearted dialogue, the nurse can easily introduce humor to break tension. In addition, creating a positive environment with humorous material in waiting areas will set the stage for relaxed interactions.[7] Also, the integration of humor in education and training programs will make learning experiences more memorable for nursing students and thus better equip them to use humor in their professional practice. If one creates an environment where laughter is embraced during training, new nurses will feel more confident using humor with patients and diffusing some of the stresses of their profession.[8]

Lastly, one could say that humor within the nurse-patient relationship may be like a double-edged sword, and particular attention was given to using such an approach. Grasp and acceptance of humor in life might lead to a healthy therapeutic aid, which would assist in achieving proper relations among patients and nurses and enable relief of stress in most demanding situations. Ethical consideration may always guide nurses in their reflective use of humor with constant awareness of each patient’s dignity and sensitivities. As nursing creates an atmosphere embracing laughter, it contributes much to patients’ recovery processes and to caregivers’ resiliency, further enhancing the quality of healthcare services provided.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.