Extract
[...] It is emotional intelligence that will allow the caregiver to establish a just distance, avoiding being overwhelmed by their emotions, and thus favoring a more authentic and relevant listening and exchange in their relationship with the patient. Language also plays an important role in relational care: the use of 'personal names' must be adjusted to the situation, avoiding the use of the informal form whenever possible. It is worth noting that silence is also a language, which encourages the patient to express their emotions. [...]
[...] According to the American anthropologist, four distances are likely to be established in the relationships between individuals: the intimate distance where all senses are alert, but when imposed, this can be experienced as intrusive as modesty and intimacy come into play; the personal distance that fosters a conducive climate for confidences and a better understanding of the other; the social distance constitutes the limit of the other's influence, words allow for interaction without physical contact; the public distance is, on the other hand, impersonal. In addition to this therapeutic distance, in the relationship, non-verbal communication is also at play: mimicry, gestures, posture, and tone of voice. Mastering these components allows for establishing an authentic relationship of trust in a just distance. [...]
[...] However, these emotions are important in the caregiver-patient relationship. In fact, they engage the caregiver, through their involvement, in an understanding of the patient's experience and feelings, and thus favor the recognition and expression of the patient's emotions. Reflecting on practices, particularly in terms of ethics, allows the caregiver to question the meaning and values that guide the act of care. However, this questioning of oneself, the other, and one's practices requires professional skills and abilities. This professional competence brings together knowledge related to the relational approach, knowledge of skills in terms of personal abilities that allow for a trusting relationship, and the knowledge of being, which includes behaviors and attitudes, based on the values and education of the caregiver. [...]
[...] What are the skills and competences that allow for a 'just' distance, advocated by the caring body? How to care humanely when, to protect oneself, the caregiver conceals, consciously or unconsciously, the emotions generated by daily work alongside suffering? What tools would allow the caregiver to know how far to get involved and how? How to reconcile the concern for the other, by 'an assisting implication', and the urgent need to preserve oneself to 'not burn one's wings'? What are the skills required to demonstrate emotional intelligence in relational care? [...]
