ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is irritable and complains to the nurse about difficulty sleeping last night. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates active listening and encourages the patient to share more information about their difficulty sleeping. By asking the patient to elaborate, the nurse can gather important details to identify the root cause and provide appropriate interventions. Choice A is dismissive and lacks empathy. Choice C makes an assumption without gathering more information. Choice D is a generalization and does not address the patient's specific concerns.
Question 2 of 5
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 3 of 5
The nurse cares for a patient with a terminal illness. Which way would be the most therapeutic for the nurse to communicate with this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because demonstrating understanding with empathy is the most therapeutic way for the nurse to communicate with a patient facing a terminal illness. Empathy allows the nurse to connect emotionally with the patient, showing support and compassion without judgment. This can help the patient feel heard and validated, leading to a sense of comfort and trust in the nurse. Choice A is incorrect because using an honest, judgmental attitude can be harmful and create distance between the nurse and the patient. Choice C is incorrect as acknowledging hope with sympathy may not always align with the patient's feelings and can come across as insincere. Choice D is incorrect because consistently evaluating the patient's feelings may feel intrusive and insensitive, rather than supportive.
Question 4 of 5
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 5 of 5
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.