Unfolding Narratives

Adaptable, evidence-based educational resources using performing arts and new technologies, co-created with healthcare and arts professionals, to enhance nursing education at Western Sydney University. The relationship the nurse builds with anyone in their care is at the heart of nursing practice. This requires the nurse to develop ‘soft skills’ that ensure they can communicate with empathy and compassion. However, this may be even more difficult if the nurse is building a relationship with a person experiencing distress because they have been diagnosed with a mental illness, cognitive impairment, or a person in crisis. It is important to teach nurses at the beginning of their career to take a person-centred view that enables them to look beyond the behaviour and really listen to the person so that the nurse can understand who the person is and what their needs are.