ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 9
A 67-year-old woman had major abdominal surgery yesterday. She has IV lines, a urinary catheter, and an abdominal wound dressing, and she is receiving PRN pain medication. The end of shift report that best conveys the patient status is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it provides the most detailed and comprehensive information about the patient's status, including specific details about the abdominal dressing, IV fluid status, urine output, pain management, comfort level, and vital signs. This level of detail is crucial for understanding the patient's condition post-surgery. Choice A is incorrect because it lacks specific details regarding the patient's clinical status. Choice B is more detailed but still lacks key information such as urine output and specific pain medication doses. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses more on non-clinical information and does not provide essential details about the patient's medical condition. In summary, choice C is correct because it offers a thorough and detailed overview of the patient's medical status, making it the most appropriate choice for an end-of-shift report in a healthcare setting.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse cares for a client with abdominal pain who is scheduled for exploratory surgery. Which statement(s), if made by the nurse, indicates that the client's rights in the helping relationship have been violated? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it indicates a violation of the client's rights in the helping relationship. By stating "I do not have time right now to help you call your family," the nurse is disregarding the client's need for support and communication with their family, which is a fundamental aspect of patient rights. This response demonstrates a lack of empathy and neglect of the client's emotional needs during a vulnerable time. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: B: "I am available to answer questions that you may have about your surgery." - This choice demonstrates the nurse's willingness to provide information and support, which aligns with the client's rights. C: "You seem frightened. I will stay with you until your family arrives." - This choice shows the nurse's empathy and commitment to the client's emotional well-being, respecting the client's rights. D: "Your neighbors called, and I told them that you will have surgery." - This choice shows the nurse's communication with others
Question 3 of 9
When the nurse makes the statement, "We can come back to that later—right now I need to know about when your symptoms started," the nurse is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. By saying, "We can come back to that later—right now I need to know about when your symptoms started," the nurse is refocusing the patient to the issue at hand when the conversation has wandered. This response helps maintain the focus of the conversation on gathering important information about the patient's symptoms, which is crucial for providing appropriate care. It acknowledges the patient's concerns while redirecting the conversation back to the main topic. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the nurse's intention in the given statement. Choice A implies judgment on the patient's conversation topic, choice B suggests limiting the patient's emotional expression, and choice D implies a rushed or dismissive attitude towards the conversation, none of which are demonstrated by the nurse's response.
Question 4 of 9
Which facial feature, if displayed by the nurse, best conveys warmth?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because relaxed muscles and a concerned expression convey warmth. Relaxed muscles indicate a sense of calm and approachability, while a concerned expression shows empathy and care. Small pupils and a fixed gaze (A) can be perceived as cold or distant. Furrowed brow and wrinkled forehead (B) suggest tension or worry. Pursed lips and a forced smile (C) may come across as insincere. In summary, D is the best choice as it combines physical relaxation with emotional warmth.
Question 5 of 9
The home health nurse visits a client with heart failure who has increased dyspnea and peripheral edema and weight gain. The nurse suspects the client is not restricting fluids as prescribed. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Asking the client to report the amount of fluid intake for the past 24 hours is the most appropriate action because it provides objective data on the client's adherence to fluid restrictions. Step 2: This information helps the nurse to assess the client's compliance and make informed decisions about the next steps in care. Step 3: By obtaining accurate information on fluid intake, the nurse can identify any discrepancies between prescribed fluid restrictions and actual intake, leading to appropriate interventions. Step 4: This action promotes client accountability and empowers them to take an active role in managing their health. In summary, choice B is correct as it directly addresses the issue of non-adherence to fluid restrictions by gathering crucial information for assessment and intervention. Choices A, C, and D do not provide immediate actionable data on the client's fluid intake and do not address the core issue effectively.
Question 6 of 9
To begin talking with a newly admitted patient about pain management, the nurse would most appropriately state:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it encourages open communication and allows the patient to express their experience of pain. By asking the patient to describe their pain, the nurse gathers valuable information to assess and manage the pain effectively. Choice A may assume the patient's comfort level, Choice C assumes the pain is recurring without patient input, and Choice D dismisses the patient's concerns. Overall, only Choice B promotes active listening and patient-centered care.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse caring for a patient who fell off the roof while he was intoxicated asks the patient, "Why in the world were you on the roof when you had been drinking?" The nurse's statement is an example of which type of communication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Asking probing questions. In this scenario, the nurse's question is intrusive and seeks detailed information that may not be necessary for the patient's care. Probing questions can make the patient feel uncomfortable and defensive, hindering effective communication. By asking why the patient was on the roof while intoxicated, the nurse is not focusing on the immediate care needs of the patient but rather delving into personal details. This type of communication can lead to a breakdown in trust between the nurse and the patient. Summary: A: Changing the subject - This is not the correct choice as the nurse's statement does not involve diverting the conversation to a different topic. B: Defensive response - This is not the correct choice as the nurse's statement is not defensive but rather inquisitive. C: Inattentive listening - This is not the correct choice as the nurse is actively engaging in conversation with the patient, albeit in a probing manner.
Question 8 of 9
For administering pain medication to Mr. U (lung cancer and pulmonary resection), which route is the nurse most likely to question?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Rectal. Administering pain medication rectally may not be suitable for Mr. U with lung cancer and pulmonary resection due to potential issues with absorption and unpredictable drug effects. The lung cancer and pulmonary resection could affect blood flow and absorption through the rectal mucosa. Oral route may be compromised due to nausea or vomiting. IV route provides rapid onset and precise dosing. Intramuscular route may be used but could have slower onset compared to IV. Overall, rectal route is most likely to be questioned due to uncertainties in drug absorption and effectiveness in this specific patient population.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is providing care to a patient who was admitted with heart failure. The patient has not been following the prescribed diet or taking the prescribed medications. Which type of communication approach is most important for the nurse to use with this patient to facilitate a change in self-care behavior?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assertive, responsible, and caring communication. This approach is effective because it involves setting clear boundaries (assertive), taking ownership of the situation (responsible), and showing empathy and support (caring). By being assertive, the nurse can communicate expectations clearly. Being responsible conveys accountability and encourages the patient to take ownership of their health. The caring aspect fosters a supportive environment, making the patient feel understood and motivated to change. Choice A (Authoritative, honest, and outright communication) may come off as too forceful and may not promote cooperation. Choice C (Aggressive, sympathetic, and realistic communication) is contradictory - being aggressive does not align with being sympathetic. Choice D (Positive, expert, and focused communication) lacks the element of assertiveness needed to set clear boundaries and expectations.