What is the primary goal of motivational interviewing in nursing?

The primary goal of motivational interviewing in nursing is to encourage patient behavior change by exploring ambivalence. This approach is fundamentally centered around collaboration and partnership with the patient rather than confrontation or authority. When nurses engage in motivational interviewing, they actively listen to the patient's thoughts and feelings, helping them to recognize and resolve any ambivalence they may feel toward changing a particular behavior.

By creating a supportive environment, nurses can facilitate open discussions that empower patients to weigh the pros and cons of their choices. This exploration allows patients to articulate their motivations for change, leading them to greater commitment and conviction to take action in their health journey. Thus, the essence of motivational interviewing lies in fostering self-efficacy and enhancing the patient's own intrinsic motivations, making it a powerful tool for achieving sustainable behavior change in nursing practice.