What is the general purpose of 'active listening' in nurse-client interactions?

Active listening means fully attending to the client — using eye contact, attentive body language, and genuine focus, and avoiding distractions — so the client feels heard and understood. It is a foundational therapeutic communication skill that builds trust and encourages the client to share. It is not planning one's reply while the client speaks, finishing their sentences, or multitasking, all of which signal inattention. Active listening, often paired with techniques like reflecting and clarifying, supports the therapeutic relationship. Understanding active listening as full, focused attention is a core psychosocial-communication concept. (Verify against current NCLEX prep materials.)