Understanding Theory as it Applies to Nursing Communication with Joy Goldsmith and Marie Gill
February 25, 2026
In this episode of Voices from the Nursing Frontline, host Dr. Lisa Beasley is joined by Dr. Joy Goldsmith and Dr. Marie Gill. They discuss the intersection of palliative care and nursing theory, emphasizing the importance of communication in nursing practice. They explore the concept of health as expanding consciousness, the role of nurses in navigating patient narratives, and the significance of primary palliative care. The discussion highlights the challenges nurses face in engaging patients meaningfully, especially during chaotic times, and the need for ongoing education in communication strategies. The conversation concludes with reflections on the complexities of life-saving measures and the necessity of integrating patient values into care.
Nursing practice should be relationship-driven and communication-focused.
Health is defined as existing with illness, not just the absence of disease.
Nurses must engage patients as shared partners in their care.
Chaos narratives can lead to confusion and frustration for patients.
Primary palliative care is essential for all patients, not just those at end-of-life.
Nurses can facilitate meaning-making by asking simple, meaningful questions.
Communication in nursing is an ongoing, iterative process.
The art of communication is co-created between nurses and patients.
Nurses need to develop awareness of their communication styles and biases.
Incorporating patient values into care is crucial for effective nursing practice.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Palliative Care and Nursing Theory
03:04 The Role of Communication in Nursing
06:08 Health as Expanding Consciousness Theory
08:38 Navigating Patient Narratives in Palliative Care
11:31 The Importance of Relationship-Driven Care
14:17 Challenges in Integrating Palliative Care
16:50 Empowering Nurses in Communication
19:40 The Role of Nurses in Chaos
22:58 Understanding Death and Dying
25:45 The Intersection of Theory and Practice
27:59 Communication Theories in Nursing
30:57 Translating Theory into Practice
33:33 Final Thoughts on Communication in Nursing
47:34 LBeasley_Outro (1).mp3