Final answer:
When discussing sexual health with a patient, it is best to employ a nonjudgmental attitude, avoid 'why' statements, and encourage open communication with open-ended questions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing sexual health with a patient, the recommended therapeutic communication technique is employing a nonjudgmental attitude. This approach facilitates an open and safe environment for the patient to share personal information without feeling judged or shamed. Avoiding "why" statements is crucial as they can come across as accusatory or intrusive. Instead, health care providers should use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and ensure a patient-centered communication style, which helps to gather comprehensive information and understand the patient's perspective. A directive approach may be appropriate in specific scenarios but should be used with caution to prevent the patient from feeling controlled or overwhelmed. Overall, the best practice is to combine openness, nonjudgmental listening, and patient-led conversation when discussing sensitive topics like sexual health.