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
A young mother who fractured her leg is sobbing with her face hidden behind her hands. She says to the nurse, "I will not be able to work for at least 2 months. Without my job, I cannot pay my bills or take care of my baby. I am alone and do not have anyone to help me." Which response by the nurse accurately conveys empathy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it acknowledges the patient's specific concerns about taking care of herself and her baby. By reflecting back what the patient has expressed, the nurse shows understanding and empathy. Choice A implies doubt in the patient's perception, B makes an assumption about low self-esteem without evidence, and D does not directly address the patient's immediate worries. Empathy involves actively listening, understanding the patient's emotions, and responding with sensitivity to their unique situation.
Question 3 of 9
A nurse manager asks a colleague for advice on strategies to improve communication with staff nurses. Which response by the nurse manager's colleague is best?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it provides a comprehensive approach to improving communication by emphasizing sensitivity, respect, and genuineness. Sensitivity shows empathy towards staff nurses, respect fosters a positive and professional environment, and genuineness builds trust. Choice B is too simplistic and may not address underlying communication issues. Choice C, while promoting empathy, is impractical and may not address communication challenges effectively. Choice D's focus on avoiding emotions overlooks the importance of emotional intelligence in effective communication. In summary, choice A encompasses key elements essential for fostering effective communication in a healthcare setting.
Question 4 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 5 of 9
When a patient states, "I don't feel like walking today," the nurse's most therapeutic verbal response would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You don't want to walk today?" This response shows empathy and encourages the patient to express their feelings further. It validates the patient's emotions without judgment, fostering a therapeutic relationship. Choice A is directive and dismisses the patient's feelings. Choice C shifts the focus to the nurse's feelings, not addressing the patient's concerns. Choice D is confrontational and may make the patient defensive instead of exploring their feelings. In summary, option B demonstrates active listening and promotes open communication, making it the most therapeutic response.
Question 6 of 9
According to the Workplace Bullying Institute, nurses are also exposed to this type of behavior within their professional environment. In teaching the possibility to an incoming graduate nurse, you know that the nurse understands when he or she includes which of the following as abusive conduct? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Threats. Threats are considered abusive conduct in the context of workplace bullying. Threats can create a hostile work environment and harm the well-being of nurses. Humiliation, intimidation, and physical abuse are also forms of abusive conduct, but in this specific question, the focus is on identifying the behavior that constitutes abuse within the professional environment for nurses. Therefore, while humiliation, intimidation, and physical abuse are indeed harmful behaviors, threats specifically align with the definition of abusive conduct as outlined by the Workplace Bullying Institute in the context of workplace bullying among nurses.
Question 7 of 9
Which demonstrates the nurse's genuine concern for clients?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because informing the patient about a medication error and symptoms to report demonstrates transparency, honesty, and prioritizing the patient's safety and well-being. It shows genuine concern by ensuring the patient is informed and involved in their care. Choice A is incorrect as it provides false reassurance. Choice B is incorrect as delaying notification can harm the patient emotionally and undermine trust. Choice C is incorrect as it involves deception and risks the patient's well-being for assessment purposes.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse cares for a female patient who is trying to gain understanding of her life and her diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer. Which approach by the nurse would best meet this patient's needs?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Listen to the patient's stories about her past experiences. This approach allows the nurse to show empathy, build trust, and understand the patient's perspective. By actively listening to the patient's stories, the nurse can provide emotional support and help the patient process her emotions and thoughts. A: Suggesting a support group may be beneficial, but it may not address the patient's immediate need for understanding and processing her diagnosis. B: Providing reading material on death and dying may be overwhelming and not personalized to the patient's specific needs. C: Contacting the patient's spiritual leader may not be appropriate if the patient does not have a strong spiritual connection or desire for daily visits.
Question 9 of 9
The team leader is teaching the nursing student about emergency respiratory equipment that should be available for Mr. L (tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy). Which piece of equipment is the most important to show to the student?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bag-valve mask with extension tubing. This is the most important equipment to show to the student because it is essential for providing immediate ventilation support in case of respiratory distress for a patient with a tracheostomy or partial laryngectomy. The bag-valve mask allows for manual ventilation by delivering oxygen to the patient's lungs, and the extension tubing ensures easy access to the patient's airway. A: An adult-sized endotracheal tube is not the most important equipment in this scenario as the patient already has a tracheostomy in place. B: A laryngeal scope with blades of several sizes is used for visualizing the larynx and not essential for immediate respiratory support. D: A tracheostomy insertion tray is used for performing tracheostomy procedures and not required for routine emergency respiratory support. In summary, the bag-valve mask with extension tubing is the most critical equipment for immediate ventilation support