Which of the following demonstrates effective communication with patients?

Effective communication with patients is crucial in nursing and healthcare settings, as it fosters understanding, builds trust, and enhances patient engagement in their care. The choice that best represents effective communication is listening actively and responding with empathy.

Active listening involves fully concentrating on what the patient is saying, acknowledging their feelings, and validating their concerns. This approach demonstrates that the nurse values the patient's perspective and promotes an open dialogue. Responding with empathy ensures that the patient feels heard and supported, which can lead to better patient satisfaction and adherence to care plans.

In contrast, using complex medical terminology can create barriers to understanding, as patients may not grasp the meanings of technical language, leading to confusion and frustration. Talking over the patient undermines their autonomy and may prevent them from expressing their needs, thus impairing the therapeutic relationship. Providing written instructions alone lacks the interactive element that is often necessary for clarification and ensures that the patient fully comprehends the information, as verbal communication allows for questions and immediate feedback.

Overall, choice B reflects the essence of effective communication by prioritizing the patient's experience and needs.