This study aims at presenting the analysis of an interaction between a nurse and a patient's family member in which impaired communication was observed. The interpersonal-relationship theoretical framework was used. The patient was young, 20 years old, bore a dead fetus and presented various complications. The interaction took place with her aunt (stepmother) and as to the structure, it was diagnostic, therapeutic and made it possible to establish a proposal of continuous assistance. As to content, it was possible to find the points of support given by family members and identify new facts so that the nursing team could improve the assistance given to the patient.
mental health; family; communication