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
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 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
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 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 teacher at a local elementary school asks a nurse to talk to the students about nutrition. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates the nurse's commitment to understanding the teacher's specific goals and tailoring the nutrition education to meet those needs. By asking what the teacher wants the students to learn, the nurse can provide targeted and relevant information. A is incorrect because it assumes teaching nutrition labels is the best approach without considering the teacher's objectives. C is incorrect because focusing on the consequences of obesity may not align with the teacher's goals for the session. D is incorrect as it prioritizes the nurse's enjoyment over meeting the educational needs of the students.
Question 7 of 9
The team leader is teaching the nursing student about emergency respiratory equipment that should be available for Mr. L (tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy). Which piece of equipment is the most important to show to the student?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bag-valve mask with extension tubing. This is the most important equipment to show to the student because it is essential for providing immediate ventilation support in case of respiratory distress for a patient with a tracheostomy or partial laryngectomy. The bag-valve mask allows for manual ventilation by delivering oxygen to the patient's lungs, and the extension tubing ensures easy access to the patient's airway. A: An adult-sized endotracheal tube is not the most important equipment in this scenario as the patient already has a tracheostomy in place. B: A laryngeal scope with blades of several sizes is used for visualizing the larynx and not essential for immediate respiratory support. D: A tracheostomy insertion tray is used for performing tracheostomy procedures and not required for routine emergency respiratory support. In summary, the bag-valve mask with extension tubing is the most critical equipment for immediate ventilation support
Question 8 of 9
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 9 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.