Adam Interviews: How to improve patient care through psychology

March 7, 2026 - 07:56

A former nurse turned psychologist is shedding light on how psychological principles can transform patient interactions and improve overall care. Brooke Finley, who once witnessed frequent episodes of patients lashing out verbally or physically, now applies her expertise to address the root causes of these distressing incidents.

Finley explains that challenging patient behaviors are often manifestations of unmet needs or overwhelming fear, not personal attacks on staff. By training healthcare teams to recognize psychological triggers—such as the profound stress of a loss of control or dignity during hospitalization—providers can de-escalate situations before they intensify.

The approach focuses on empathy and communication. Simple strategies, like explaining procedures in advance to reduce uncertainty or using calming language, can significantly lower a patient's anxiety. This psychological perspective helps staff reframe difficult encounters, viewing them as opportunities for compassionate intervention rather than mere disruptions.

Implementing this mindset leads to a dual benefit: a safer environment for healthcare workers and more respectful, effective care for patients. It moves the focus from simply managing behavior to understanding the human experience behind it, fostering a therapeutic alliance that is fundamental to healing.