What is one impact of poor emotional intelligence on nursing?

Poor emotional intelligence in nursing can lead to an increased likelihood of patient distress. When nurses struggle to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with the feelings of their patients, they may inadvertently convey a lack of support or understanding. This can result in patients feeling anxious, neglected, or misunderstood during their care, which can worsen their emotional and physical health outcomes.

Effective emotional intelligence allows nurses to connect with patients on a deeper level, addressing their emotional needs and providing reassurance. Without this connection, patients may feel isolated or distressed, as their concerns may not be recognized or validated by their healthcare providers. Therefore, it is essential for nursing staff to cultivate and apply emotional intelligence skills to enhance patient care and mitigate distress.