What is considered non-threatening body language for a provider to show?

What is considered non-threatening body language for a provider to show?

• A. Palms out and slightly to the side
• B. Hands in front of your body, below your chest
• C. Arms crossed
• D. Hands hidden

Answer: (A)

Non-threatening body language is about showing openness and safety to the patient. When your palms are visible, facing slightly outward and to the side, you communicate that you’re open to helping and not concealing anything. This posture reduces perceived threat, helps the patient feel at ease, and encourages cooperation during assessment and care. Arms crossed, hands in front of your chest, or hands hidden behind you can signal defensiveness, hiding something, or uncertainty. Those cues can raise anxiety or suspicion in the patient and make it harder to establish trust and effective communication.

Non-threatening body language is about showing openness and safety to the patient. When your palms are visible, facing slightly outward and to the side, you communicate that you’re open to helping and not concealing anything. This posture reduces perceived threat, helps the patient feel at ease, and encourages cooperation during assessment and care.

Arms crossed, hands in front of your chest, or hands hidden behind you can signal defensiveness, hiding something, or uncertainty. Those cues can raise anxiety or suspicion in the patient and make it harder to establish trust and effective communication.