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
The nurse cares for a client who does not follow dietary recommendations for treatment of heart failure. Which statement, if made by the nurse, demonstrates respect for the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates empathy and respect for the client's autonomy. By stating "I care about you even if you are not following your dietary restrictions," the nurse acknowledges the client's choice while still showing concern for their well-being. This response fosters a supportive and non-judgmental relationship with the client. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they either show indifference, use coercion, or imply a comparison between patients based on their dietary choices. These responses do not prioritize the client's feelings, choices, or autonomy, which is essential in providing patient-centered care.
Question 3 of 9
The home care nurse visits a mother and her newborn 2 days after discharge from the hospital. The mother states, "My baby cries all the time. I must not be a very good mother.= Which response by the nurse is nontherapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it dismisses the mother's feelings and suggests a temporary distraction instead of addressing her concerns. Choice A validates the mother's feelings and promotes open communication. Choice B demonstrates empathy and physical support. Choice D encourages the mother to express her emotions further for better understanding. Overall, choice C is nontherapeutic as it does not address the underlying issue of the mother's feelings of inadequacy and instead offers a superficial solution.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse provides care for a male patient. When the nurse addresses the patient, which would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ask the patient how he prefers to be addressed. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and personal preferences, promoting patient-centered care. By asking the patient directly, the nurse acknowledges the patient's individuality and ensures respectful communication. A: Using both first and last name with each encounter may come across as too formal or impersonal for some patients, potentially creating a barrier in the nurse-patient relationship. C: Calling the patient by his first name without consent may be perceived as too familiar or disrespectful by some patients, leading to discomfort or a lack of trust in the nurse. D: Addressing the patient by his last name may be too formal for some patients and can create a sense of distance or hierarchy in the nurse-patient relationship.
Question 5 of 9
Ms. C (bowel resection) repeatedly refuses to perform a return demonstration of any aspect of colostomy care. Despite steady improvement and independent resumption of other ADLs, she protests, "I'm too weak. You'll have to do it for me." At this point, what is the priority nursing concept to consider in planning interventions for Ms. C?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Functional ability. This is because the priority nursing concept to consider in planning interventions for Ms. C is her ability to independently perform colostomy care. By refusing to demonstrate, she may be indicating a lack of functional ability to manage this aspect of self-care. This is essential for her long-term independence and quality of life. Mobility (choice A) is important but not the priority in this case. Tissue integrity (choice B) is also crucial but not as immediate as ensuring functional ability. Coping (choice D) is important for emotional well-being but does not address the primary issue of functional ability for self-care.
Question 6 of 9
Which statement describes the affective aspect of learning effective communication strategies?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it addresses the emotional or attitudinal aspect of learning effective communication strategies. Believing that positive communication strategies build confidence reflects the affective domain of learning, which involves feelings, attitudes, and beliefs. This statement emphasizes the importance of mindset and attitude in communication effectiveness. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: A: Choice A focuses on the behavioral aspect of communication strategies, not the affective aspect. B: Choice B emphasizes the non-verbal communication aspect, which is related to the behavioral domain, not the affective domain. D: Choice D highlights the behavioral aspect of using assertive and responsible communication strategies, not the affective aspect.
Question 7 of 9
A patient is attracted to the nurse and attempts to initiate a social relationship. It is most appropriate for the nurse to take which action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to maintain professional boundaries with patients to ensure ethical practice and prevent potential harm. By telling the patient that the relationship must remain professional, the nurse sets clear boundaries and maintains the integrity of the therapeutic relationship. This approach protects both the patient and the nurse from potential ethical violations. Choice A is incorrect because encouraging the behavior could lead to boundary violations and harm the therapeutic relationship. Choice B is not the most appropriate immediate action as it does not address the situation directly with the patient. Choice D is also not the best course of action as transferring the patient does not address the underlying issue of maintaining professional boundaries.
Question 8 of 9
When interacting with an older adult patient, the nurse would enhance communication by:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because speaking slowly allows the older adult patient to process the message at their own pace, considering potential hearing or cognitive impairments. Speaking slowly also shows respect and patience. Option B is incorrect because using the first name may not be culturally appropriate or may not align with the patient's preference for formality. Option C is incorrect because standing in the doorway may be seen as disrespectful and inhibit effective communication by creating physical barriers. Option D is incorrect because speaking in simple sentences is important, but speaking as if to a child may be patronizing and disrespectful to the older adult patient.
Question 9 of 9
It would be most important for the nurse to temporarily withdraw expressions of warmth to which patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient with a history of violent behavior poses a potential risk to the nurse's safety. Temporarily withdrawing expressions of warmth is important to establish boundaries and ensure safety. Choice A involves an angry patient, but the risk of violence is higher with a history of violent behavior. Choices B and C do not indicate immediate safety concerns.