ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 5
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 2 of 5
A nurse is delegating to a nursing assistant. The most appropriate form of this type of communication would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it provides clear, specific instructions for the nursing assistant on when to notify the nurse about Mr. Jones' condition. It includes a specific parameter (heart rate greater than 100) which helps in identifying the urgency of the situation. Options A, B, and C are vague and lack specificity, making it difficult for the nursing assistant to know when to escalate the situation. Option D ensures effective communication and appropriate delegation by setting clear expectations for when the nurse needs to be notified.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse will appropriately and deliberately use the closed question technique when the patient is: (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The closed question technique is used to gather specific information or facts. When a patient is being asked for specific information, using closed questions can help guide the conversation and elicit precise responses. Closed questions typically require a yes or no answer or a specific piece of information. In contrast, open-ended questions are more suitable when exploring feelings or emotions (choices B and C) or when dealing with confusion (choice D). Closed questions may not be effective when a patient is extremely anxious and unfocused, as open-ended questions may be more appropriate to allow the patient to express themselves more freely. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer because using closed questions in this scenario helps to gather precise information effectively.
Question 4 of 5
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.
Question 5 of 5
A client has high blood pressure and needs to learn about a low-sodium diet. Which question if asked by the client would be an indirect request for information?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the client is indirectly asking for information on how to make food taste better without explicitly mentioning sodium or low-sodium diet. Choices A, C, and D are direct requests for information related to sodium intake, blood pressure control, and high-sodium foods, respectively. By choosing B, the client is hinting at the need for flavorful alternatives without directly addressing the issue of sodium restriction. This indirect approach suggests a desire to maintain taste while adapting to a low-sodium diet.