ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 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 2 of 9
Which describes characteristics of mutuality in the nurse–client relationship? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Collaboration. Mutuality in the nurse-client relationship involves working together towards shared goals, with both parties actively participating and contributing to decision-making processes. Collaboration fosters a relationship based on equality, respect, and shared responsibility, leading to improved outcomes for the client. A: Dependency is not a characteristic of mutuality as it implies one party relying solely on the other, which goes against the principles of collaboration and shared decision-making. C: Paternalism is not a characteristic of mutuality as it involves a one-sided approach where the nurse makes decisions on behalf of the client without their active involvement or input. D: Acceptance of differences, while important in promoting understanding and respect in the relationship, is not a defining characteristic of mutuality. It is more about acknowledging and respecting each other's unique perspectives rather than actively collaborating towards common goals.
Question 3 of 9
The charge nurse informs a staff nurse that it is her turn to float to another unit. Which response by the staff nurse is aggressive?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it contains a threat ("you'll be sorry") and implies superiority ("you cannot handle emergencies without me"). This response is aggressive as it seeks to manipulate or intimidate the charge nurse. In contrast, choices A, B, and C express concerns or opinions without aggression by simply stating feelings or thoughts without any form of threat or superiority.
Question 4 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 5 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who has just been diagnosed with lung cancer. Which statement by the nurse is therapeutic?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates empathy and validates the patient's emotions. Acknowledging the patient's fear shows understanding and support, which is essential in therapeutic communication. Choice B gives false hope and may not be accurate. Choice C dismisses the seriousness of the diagnosis. Choice D is unrelated and does not address the patient's emotional needs. In summary, choice A is therapeutic as it shows empathy and support, while the other choices are either inaccurate, dismissive, or irrelevant.
Question 6 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.
Question 7 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 8 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 9 of 9
According to the NCSBN, appropriate self-disclosure is a part of maintaining professional boundaries. Appropriate self-disclosure includes the following:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because appropriate self-disclosure in a therapeutic setting should be brief, focused, and only used if the experience is similar to the patient's situation. This helps to build rapport and create a sense of empathy without overstepping professional boundaries. Choice A is incorrect because discussing intimate or personal values with patients can lead to boundary issues. Choice B is incorrect because keeping secrets with or for a patient can compromise confidentiality and trust. Choice C is incorrect because expressing that you are the only one who truly understands the patient can create a power dynamic that is not conducive to a therapeutic relationship.