Communicating effectively The ability to communicate effectively is important when caring for patients who are experiencing an acute psychotic episode. It’s impossible to provide a nurse with a script of therapeutic words, phrases, or sentences; instead, it’s preferable for you to use your own personal style to operationalize a number of therapeutic principles (see Five therapeutic principles). If you’re extroverted and sociable, then use it to greatest effect without overstimulating the patient. If you’re introverted and soft-spoken, then use silence to allow the patient to reveal his or her feelings.