Effective communication is essential in the healthcare setting because it directly affects the quality of patient-centered care and medical outcomes ( Levetown, 2008). In pediatric units, children face distressing and even life-threatening conditions that must be addressed openly and compassionately to provide optimal patient care. This essay will discuss four communication strategies used in the health care setting with a focus on improving therapeutic communication. Through the use of evidence gathered from scientific articles, this essay will demonstrate the importance of effective communication and how it can improve therapeutic communication between a healthcare professional and a pediatric patient. In the healthcare environment, effective communication is crucial (,). Even more, the ability of health professionals to develop a therapeutic relationship with patients. Ineffective communication can lead to inconsistent and inappropriate patient care. (Carter and Levetown, 2004). Cognitive stages, emotions, and pre-existing family relationships should be considered when caring for a pediatric patient. In order to improve therapeutic communication and fully understand a child's medical, psychological, spiritual and social needs, healthcare professionals must use strategies that will be effective in ……………………………… ……then integrate their needs into a care plan. The first strategy that can be implemented to improve therapeutic communication is to encourage the child to become actively involved in the medical and decision-making process through the use of play and other communication tools. Wassmer et al (2004), stated that the need for shared decision making and informed consensus...... middle of document ......abor. As the family is the primary source of support and stability for the child, their presence during health procedures can significantly reduce the anxiety of the child and their family. By working together, parents and healthcare workers can make more personal and informed decisions about the best treatment for a child and build on a trusting and therapeutic relationship. Together, the family, nurse and healthcare staff are empowered to provide the most optimal care for a child. In pediatric units, children's language and communication needs will be closely linked to their developmental level. The third key strategy for improving the therapeutic relationship is to use developmentally appropriate, non-threatening language. Different things can become stressors for a child, but they can be resolved with developmentally targeted strategies..