The Rap on Rapport (1 Hour)

Rapport is a very important part of nursing and an even more important part in nursing leadership. In nursing, we are leaders. Leaders with our patients and with each other. Rapport is essential in building relationships with our patients and colleagues. This course defined rapport as "the ability to relate to ourselves and others in ways that create a climate of respect, trust and cooperation." With this definition we can see that rapport is not just for the nurse and patient, but for the nurse leader and those who are led. This course really emphasized that rapport does not just exist but is a process. Body language is a major part of building rapport. Leaders must be aware of their posture, gestures, facial expressions, etc...Tone of voice and the words used are also a big part of building rapport. It is important for nurses to develop rapport with each other in order to successfully lead and create a healthy working environment.