ATI RN
Communication in Nursing 8th Edition Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse recognizes a verbal response when the patient:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Step-by-step rationale:
1. Verbal communication involves words, either written or spoken.
2.
Choice B states that the patient writes the answer to a question asked by the nurse, which involves using words.
3.
Therefore, choice B correctly represents verbal communication.
4.
Choices A, C, and D involve nonverbal communication methods such as nodding, sobbing, and moaning, which do not involve words.
Question 2 of 5
When the patient says, "I don't want to go home," the nurse's best therapeutic verbal response would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates active listening and empathy by reflecting the patient's statement. It shows the nurse is engaged and seeking to understand the patient's feelings.
Choice A dismisses the patient's concerns.
Choice C implies the patient is being pressured by their family.
Choice D shifts the focus to the nurse's experience, not the patient's feelings.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse has selected an outcome for the patient to eat all of the food on the breakfast tray each day. Assessing that the patient has eaten all of the breakfast, the nurse would give positive feedback by saying:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it acknowledges the patient's achievement of finishing the whole meal, provides positive reinforcement, and invites the patient to make choices for the next meal, encouraging continued compliance with the desired outcome. This response directly reinforces the behavior that was targeted, making it more likely for the patient to repeat the behavior in the future.
Choices A, B, and C do not specifically address the patient's accomplishment of eating all the food, therefore they do not provide effective positive feedback for reinforcing the desired behavior.
Question 4 of 5
A 36-year-old woman who is in traction for a fractured femur that she received in an auto accident is found crying quietly. The nurse can best address this situation by saying:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it acknowledges the patient's emotions, shows empathy, and encourages open communication. By stating "You are upset. Can you tell me what's wrong?" the nurse validates the patient's feelings and invites her to express her concerns. This approach fosters trust and allows the nurse to address the underlying issues causing the patient's distress.
Choice A is incorrect as it assumes the patient is in pain without confirmation and may come off as dismissive.
Choice B is inappropriate as it lacks empathy and demands the patient to stop crying, which can further escalate the situation.
Choice C is insensitive as it diminishes the patient's feelings by comparing her situation to a potential worse outcome, which is not helpful in addressing her emotional distress.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse chooses to use touch in the nurse-patient relationship because touch:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because touch can convey caring and support when words are difficult, enhancing the nurse-patient relationship. This is supported by research showing the positive impact of touch in providing comfort and building trust.
Choice B is incorrect as cultural differences can be addressed through communication and understanding.
Choice C is incorrect because touch can be appropriate in various situations beyond just young children.
Choice D is incorrect as touch should be used judiciously based on individual preferences and boundaries.