The Importance Of Humor In Health Care

The spectrum of therapeutic techniques available within the health care continuum is very complex and varied. From traditional medicine, to holistic remedies, and anything in between, nurses have a rather large arsenal at their disposal when it comes to treating the patients that are under their care. Humor as an alternative therapy has long been understood as a proven means to aid in the recovery process. “With so much power to heal and renew, the ability to laugh easily and frequently is a tremendous resource for surmounting problems, enhancing your relationships, and supporting both physical and emotional health” (Smith & Segal, 2015). The purpose of this paper is to discuss situations in which humor would be a viable alternative therapy

“When used sensitively, respecting the gravity of the situation, humor can build the connection among the caregiver, patient, and family” (Penson et al. 2005). Also, one must take into consideration cultural sensitivities, and avoid pointed remarks aimed directly at a patient or family member. Inappropriate humor can make an already stressful situation exponentially worse and increasingly more uncomfortable. Humor between patient and caregiver helps to create a bond, instills trust, and injects a bit of fun into the environment. Allowing a patient to view us as human, and not an emotionless robot gives us even better opportunity to help them reach their goals of improving their health. A patient that trusts a nurse will more readily relinquish information regarding how they are feeling. It may cause them to think about the sensations they’re feeling so that they are able to provide more thorough information, thus making our just a little easier when in discussions with physicians and other nurses. It also allows us an opportunity to make more thorough and appropriate nursing diagnoses that will better help the patient achieve their health care