ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
An aspect of computer use in patient care in which the LPN may need to be proficient includes:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because LPNs are often responsible for inputting patient data such as requests for radiographs or lab services into the computer system. This task requires proficiency in navigating electronic health records to accurately document patient information. Option B is incorrect as LPNs typically do not program computers but rather use pre-existing systems. Option C is incorrect because educating patients on computer use is usually the responsibility of other healthcare professionals. Option D is also incorrect as scheduling admissions and nurse staffing is typically managed by unit coordinators or nurse managers, not LPNs. In summary, the LPN's role in computer use for patient care primarily involves inputting data accurately and efficiently.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who complains of back pain. Which question should the nurse ask to obtain specific information about the back pain?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because asking "What do you think caused the back pain?" allows the patient to provide specific details about the onset and potential triggers of the pain, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on medication rather than gathering information. Choice B is too broad and may not directly address the back pain issue. Choice C is irrelevant to the immediate assessment of the back pain and does not provide specific information about the patient's current condition.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse discusses smoking cessation with a client. Which action, if taken by the nurse, would most likely result in a behavior change?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The nurse should collaborate with the client to develop an individualized plan of action. This is the most likely action to result in a behavior change because it involves actively involving the client in the process, taking into account their unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. By collaborating with the client, the nurse can tailor the smoking cessation plan to be more personalized and therefore more effective. Choice A (contact the national telephone quitline) may be helpful but lacks individualization. Choice B (recommend nicotine replacement and behavioral interventions) is a good approach but may not address the client's specific needs. Choice D (implement a strategy validated by research) is important but may not be as effective if it does not consider the client's individual factors. Overall, choice C is the best option as it promotes client engagement and customization for a higher chance of successful behavior change.
Question 4 of 9
According to the ANA's Standards of Clinical Nursing Practice, there are several steps within the nursing process that surround patient care. However, one of the most important steps is the one in which the nurse partners with the patient, family, and other caregivers to create an acceptable path that meets the patient's needs and is specific to the disease process. This important step is identified as:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Planning. In the nursing process, planning is a crucial step where the nurse collaborates with the patient, family, and caregivers to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to the patient's needs and specific disease process. This step involves setting goals, determining interventions, and creating a roadmap for the patient's care. Planning ensures that the care provided is individualized, evidence-based, and addresses the patient's unique circumstances. Evaluation (A) comes after planning to assess the effectiveness of interventions. Implementation (C) involves carrying out the planned interventions. Nursing diagnosis (D) is an earlier step where the nurse identifies the patient's health problems and needs. Planning stands out as the most important step as it guides the entire care process.
Question 5 of 9
In order to safeguard patient information when using a computer, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: change the computer password frequently. This is essential to safeguard patient information on a computer. Changing passwords regularly enhances security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access. By doing so, the nurse ensures that even if someone gains access to their password, it will soon be outdated. This practice aligns with best practices for maintaining confidentiality and data security. Now, let's analyze the other choices: A: Using only the computer at the nurse's station limits flexibility and convenience for accessing patient information. B: Waiting until the end of the shift to document information increases the risk of errors and delays in updating patient records. C: Using personal code words and abbreviations may lead to misinterpretation of information and compromise patient confidentiality. In summary, changing the computer password frequently is the most effective measure to safeguard patient information on a computer, while the other options do not provide the same level of security and confidentiality.
Question 6 of 9
Which assessment finding is the most critical and needs to be addressed first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because tracheal deviation after a pulmonary resection indicates a life-threatening condition like tension pneumothorax. This condition requires immediate intervention to prevent respiratory distress and potential cardiovascular collapse. Tracheal deviation is a red flag sign that signals a medical emergency. Options B, C, and D are important but not as urgent as tracheal deviation. Decreased urinary output in a bladder cancer patient could indicate renal dysfunction, dysrhythmias in a patient with non-Hodgkin lymphoma may need further evaluation, and severe abdominal pain post-bowel resection could signal complications but are not as immediately life-threatening as tracheal deviation.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse is reviewing Mr. N's (non-Hodgkin lymphoma) medication administration record and sees that the combination therapy aprepitant, dexamethasone, and ondansetron was administered during the last shift. What is the nurse most likely to ask to determine efficacy of the therapy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The nurse would ask about feelings of nausea and vomiting to determine the efficacy of the antiemetic therapy. Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy, which Mr. N would receive for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Improvement in these symptoms indicates the effectiveness of the antiemetic regimen. Choices A, B, and D are not directly related to the medications administered and would not provide valuable information on the efficacy of the therapy for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Option A focuses on pain assessment, B on appetite and food preferences, and D on energy levels and fatigue, which are not the primary outcomes to evaluate in this context.
Question 8 of 9
When communicating with a hearing impaired patient, the nurse appropriately:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: uses short, simple sentences. This is the most appropriate approach because hearing-impaired patients may have difficulty processing complex information. Using short, simple sentences helps improve comprehension. Shouting repeatedly (choice A) can be distressing and ineffective. Speaking directly into the patient's ear (choice B) may be invasive and uncomfortable. Using long, complex sentences (choice C) can overwhelm the patient and lead to confusion. Therefore, option D is the best choice for effective communication with a hearing-impaired patient.
Question 9 of 9
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 response is B. Asking the patient to elaborate on what happened last night allows the nurse to gather more information about the situation, which is crucial for assessing the patient's sleep difficulties accurately. It shows active listening and empathy, building rapport and trust with the patient. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the patient's concerns effectively or gather relevant information to provide appropriate care. Option A makes an assumption without understanding the root cause of the sleep issue. Option C assumes the cause of sleep difficulty without exploring further. Option D dismisses the patient's concerns without providing support or understanding.