ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse can best ensure that communication is understood by:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: obtaining feedback from the patient that indicates accurate comprehension. This is the best way to ensure effective communication because it directly involves the patient in the communication process, allowing for clarification if needed. By receiving feedback from the patient, the nurse can confirm whether the information has been understood correctly. This approach promotes active listening and engagement from the patient, enhancing the likelihood of accurate communication.
Incorrect choices:
A: Speaking slowly and clearly in the patient's native language may help, but it does not guarantee comprehension.
B: Asking family members may not accurately reflect the patient's understanding and could lead to miscommunication.
D: Checking for signs of hearing loss or aphasia is important, but it does not directly assess the patient's understanding of the communication.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse using active listening techniques would:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Answer A is correct because active listening involves using nonverbal cues such as leaning forward, focusing on the speaker's face, and nodding slightly to show that you are engaged and understanding the message. Leaning forward demonstrates interest, focusing on the face shows attentiveness, and nodding indicates acknowledgment. These actions encourage the speaker to continue sharing and feel heard.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect:
B: Avoiding eye contact can make the speaker feel ignored or disconnected, which goes against the principles of active listening.
C: Anticipating what the speaker is trying to say and finishing their sentences is not active listening; it can be seen as interrupting and not allowing the speaker to express themselves fully.
D: Asking probing questions and directing the conversation towards obtaining specific information efficiently is not active listening. It can come across as controlling the conversation rather than actively listening to the speaker.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse explains that the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship differs from the social relationship because:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because in a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, the focus is mainly on the nurse being therapeutically beneficial to the patient. This relationship is professional, goal-oriented, and centered on the patient's needs and well-being. The nurse's primary role is to provide care, support, and help the patient achieve their health goals. Unlike a social relationship, where the focus is mutual and not solely on the nurse, the therapeutic relationship is asymmetrical, with the nurse taking on a more authoritative and guiding role. This ensures that the patient receives the necessary care and support during their healthcare journey.
Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a social relationship can have goals or needs to be met, the nurse-patient relationship extends beyond the patient's discharge, and trust and sharing of life experiences are essential components of the nurse-patient relationship.
Question 4 of 5
When an office nurse asks the patient to repeat information that he has just given to the patient over the telephone, the nurse is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because asking the patient to repeat the information verifies their understanding. This is crucial in healthcare to ensure accurate communication and patient safety.
Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on intelligence rather than comprehension.
Choice B is incorrect as it assumes the nurse is motivated by avoiding negligence rather than patient care.
Choice D is incorrect as saving time should not compromise patient understanding.Verifying patient comprehension fosters effective communication and prevents errors.
Question 5 of 5
A patient asks the nurse, "What would you do if you had cancer and had to choose between surgery and chemotherapy?" The reply that can best help the patient is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Step-by-step rationale for why answer B is correct:
1. Answer B encourages patient autonomy by asking what solutions the patient has considered.
2. This response acknowledges the patient's ability to make decisions about their own healthcare.
3. By asking the patient about their considered solutions, the nurse can guide the discussion towards exploring different options.
4. This approach promotes shared decision-making between the patient and healthcare provider.
5. It empowers the patient to actively participate in their treatment planning.
6. Ultimately, answer B respects the patient's autonomy, fosters open communication, and supports informed decision-making.