A nursing student e-mailed an instructor to ask a question about a client's diagnosis and ended the e-mail by making a light-hearted comment about the client

Question

The instructor, however, interpreted the comment as disrespectful. This was not the student's intention and did not reflect that student's actual view of the client. Why are misunderstandings and miscommunications more common when using electronic forms of communication?
A) It is not usually possible to provide adequate context and detail when communicating electronically.
B) Electronic communication is only effective between members of the same generation or age group.
C) Because electronic communication is a relatively recent development, most people have not had sufficient time to adapt to its appropriate use.
D) Electronic forms of communication usually lack the vocal and nonverbal clues that convey meaning.

Answer 1

Ans: D
Feedback:
Be aware that electronic communications, except for video connections, generally lack the vocal and nonverbal clues that accompany face-to-face communication. It is important to carefully think through his or her electronic message to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations. Electronic communication does not necessarily preclude detail or intergenerational communication. Electronic communication is certainly newer than other forms, but this does not lead to miscommunications.