ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
A home health patient with a bleeding ulcer informs the nurse that she ate a bowl of chili with jalapenos. An inappropriate communication block with a judgmental tone by the nurse would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates a judgmental tone towards the patient's actions. The nurse is passing a negative judgment on the patient by stating that eating chili with jalapenos was not a smart decision considering the ulcer. This response can make the patient feel guilty or ashamed, hindering effective communication. Choice A shows frustration and blame towards the patient, which can lead to a defensive response. Choice C is directive and lacks empathy, focusing solely on the medical aspect without considering the patient's feelings. Choice D dismisses the patient's concerns and minimizes the impact of the action, which can be perceived as condescending. In summary, choice B is the correct answer as it highlights the importance of maintaining a non-judgmental and supportive attitude in patient communication.
Question 2 of 9
Which patient would most likely be uncomfortable with close personal space during an interaction with the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the 19-year-old white female patient standing 2 feet in front of the nurse would likely feel uncomfortable with close personal space. Younger individuals tend to value personal space more and may feel more uncomfortable with proximity. Standing 2 feet away is closer than the social distance zone, leading to potential discomfort. Choice B is incorrect because the 40-year-old African-American male patient is sitting next to the nurse, which indicates a level of comfort with proximity. Choice C is incorrect because the 60-year-old Latin-American female patient who is seated across from the nurse is at a comfortable distance for interaction. Choice D is incorrect because the 82-year-old patient from France who is lying in bed with the nurse sitting next to the bed is likely in a more intimate setting where close personal space is expected.
Question 3 of 9
The nursing student tearfully reports to the leader, "I took some flowers into Mr. N's (non- Hodgkin lymphoma) room to cheer him up, and he told me that he didn't think he was supposed to have flowers. I took them out of the room right away, and then I realized I had made a mistake." What should the team leader do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it is important to acknowledge and praise the student for taking responsibility for the mistake. By doing this, the team leader can encourage a culture of accountability and learning from errors. This approach supports the student's professional growth and self-awareness. Option A is incorrect because the immediate focus should be on addressing the emotional response of the student and providing support rather than assigning blame. Option B is inappropriate as it could undermine the student's confidence and discourage future initiative. Option D is premature as it prioritizes paperwork over supporting the student's learning and emotional well-being.
Question 4 of 9
In the early postoperative period, what is the priority concern for Mr. L, who has a tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: High risk for aspiration because of secretions and removal of epiglottis. This is the priority concern for Mr. L due to the risk of food or liquid entering the airway, leading to aspiration pneumonia and respiratory distress. The tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy compromise the airway protection mechanism, increasing the risk of aspiration. Options A and B are not the priority as infection and poor nutrition can be managed after addressing the risk of aspiration. Option C, while important for communication, is not as immediately life-threatening as the risk of aspiration.
Question 5 of 9
When communicating with an adolescent, the nurse should be very sensitive to avoid:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because offering advice can come off as dismissive to adolescents who value autonomy and independence. Adolescents prefer to feel heard and understood rather than being told what to do. Providing unsolicited advice can hinder trust and communication. Asking embarrassing questions (A) can be inappropriate but can still be necessary for assessment. Interrupting frequently (C) disrupts the flow of communication. Using active listening (D) is important but does not directly relate to avoiding sensitive topics with adolescents.
Question 6 of 9
According to a study by Robinson (2014), three parts of our true presence (how we connect with patients) are found in being:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Genuine, attentive, and immersed. This is because being genuine helps establish trust and rapport with patients, being attentive shows active listening and care, and being immersed means being fully engaged in the interaction. These qualities enhance the connection with patients and create a conducive environment for effective communication and care. Explanation of other choices: A: Friendly, kind, and sweet - While these qualities are positive, they do not fully capture the depth of true presence required for effective patient connection. B: Genuine, gifted, and creative - Being genuine is essential, but being gifted and creative are not directly related to establishing a strong connection with patients. C: Humorous, partial, and grateful - Humor can be beneficial, but being partial and grateful may not always align with maintaining professionalism and unbiased care for all patients.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse cares for a young adult patient in the emergency room after a sexual assault. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because actively listening to the patient express feelings related to the sexual assault is crucial for providing emotional support and establishing trust. This action demonstrates empathy and validates the patient's experience. It allows the patient to process their emotions and facilitates a therapeutic relationship. Avoiding decision-making situations (A) is inappropriate as it disregards the patient's autonomy. Suggesting joining a support group (B) may be helpful but should not be the immediate priority over addressing the patient's current emotional needs. Providing detailed information about evidence collection and procedures (D) is important but should come after addressing the patient's emotional well-being.
Question 8 of 9
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.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who becomes confused and a vest restraint is applied. The nurse should take which action when notifying the patient's family?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because having another nurse who has a good relationship with the family present can help facilitate effective communication and address any concerns or questions the family may have. This approach can help build trust and provide emotional support during a potentially difficult situation. A: Avoiding discussing the treatment plan can lead to confusion and distrust. C: Using medical terms may confuse or intimidate the family and hinder effective communication. D: Assuming the family wants a detailed explanation may not be accurate and can result in information overload.