Assumptions can significantly impact patient care in various ways:
Misdiagnosis: Assuming symptoms mean a specific condition can result in incorrect treatment. Ineffective Communication: Assuming a patient understands medical jargon can lead to misunderstandings. Cultural Insensitivity: Assuming all patients have the same cultural beliefs can affect the nurse-patient relationship. Psychological Impact: Patients may feel misunderstood or neglected if nurses make assumptions about their feelings or experiences.