Challenge Tips

Day 2 - Practice Active Listening to Build Trust

Active listening is a communication skill that requires the listener to focus, understand, and respond to the speaker with interest and respect. An active listener is fully present and engaged in the conversation, allowing the speaker to feel heard and valued.

In a high-stakes environment like health care, active listening is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings and misinterpretations — which can impact patient care. People are more likely to share their concerns, ideas, or mistakes when they feel heard without judgment.

Your Action for Today

Practice active listening in each conversation during your workday. This means:

• Giving your full attention and avoiding distractions (like your phone or computer)

• Hearing the speaker’s complete thought or question before responding

• Repeating back key points and asking questions to ensure you understand the speaker

• Using nonverbal cues like eye contact and nodding to demonstrate your engagement

Active listening is an essential part of nursing. It can help newer nurses build confidence in interactions with patients, peers, and leaders. Experienced nurses can use active listening to build trust, strengthen teamwork, and reduce conflicts. Nurse educators can use and encourage active listening to foster a supportive learning environment.

Day 3 sneak peek: Identify and overcome bias in yourself and your unit.



Missed day 1? Catch up here. Join us on day 3.