ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 9
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 2 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.
Question 3 of 9
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 4 of 9
When the nurse is giving direction to a nursing assistant who is being delegated part of the patient care, the nurse's most effective direction would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it provides clear and specific instructions by prioritizing tasks (morning care) and specifying the patients (205 and 206, bedridden). This ensures efficient and effective care delivery. Choice B lacks specificity and may overwhelm the nursing assistant. Choice C and D are incomplete, providing no guidance. To delegate effectively, clear instructions, prioritization, and consideration of patient needs are essential.
Question 5 of 9
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 6 of 9
A nurse manager offers a staff nurse a choice between working 8- or 12-hour shifts. Which statement, if made by the staff nurse, is nonassertive and may result in a frustrated response from the nurse manager?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: - Choice A is correct because it is nonassertive and implies a desire for control over others' schedules, which may frustrate the nurse manager. - Choice B is incorrect because it shows indifference, not assertiveness. - Choice C is incorrect as it expresses a clear preference without being nonassertive. - Choice D is incorrect because it is assertive but in a negative and confrontational way.
Question 7 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 8 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 9 of 9
The HCP should be notified if a normal voiding pattern (e.g., pain free, symptom free) fails to resume within which time period after removal of Mr. B's (bladder cancer) catheter (after the BCG treatment)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 3 days. After BCG treatment for bladder cancer, it is crucial for the healthcare provider (HCP) to be notified if a normal voiding pattern does not resume within 3 days. This timeframe allows for monitoring any potential complications or urinary retention post-catheter removal. Option A (6 hours) is too short for significant changes to occur, option B (12 hours) is also too soon to assess the situation comprehensively, and option D (1 week) is too long to wait for potential issues to be addressed promptly. Therefore, option C is the most appropriate time frame for early intervention if the patient experiences any urinary difficulties post-catheter removal.