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
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 reflects active listening and understanding the mother's concerns without making assumptions or judgments. The nurse accurately acknowledges the mother's worries about taking care of herself and her baby, showing empathy and validation. Choice A assumes the mother feels uncared for, choice B presumes low self-esteem, and choice D focuses on discomfort with asking for help rather than addressing the mother's specific concerns. Hence, choice C is the most empathetic and appropriate response in this scenario.
Question 3 of 9
A patient who has had a stroke is unable to speak clearly and has right sided hemiplegia. The nurse will design the approach to the assessment interview by:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because speaking slowly and giving the patient time to respond allows the patient with speech difficulties due to the stroke to process information and formulate a response. Prompting or finishing sentences can hinder the patient's ability to communicate independently. Asking questions to the patient directly, rather than relying on a family member, ensures accurate information is obtained directly from the patient. Telling the patient that all information will come from the daughter undermines the patient's autonomy and may lead to incomplete or inaccurate information.
Question 4 of 9
Ms. C (bowel resection and colostomy) is receiving epoetin alfa. Which laboratory test will the nurse check to see if the medication should be discontinued?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hemoglobin. Epoetin alfa is a medication that stimulates red blood cell production. Monitoring hemoglobin levels is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the medication. If hemoglobin levels rise too high, it can lead to complications like blood clots. Checking hemoglobin levels helps determine if the dose of epoetin alfa should be adjusted or discontinued. Summary: B: White cell count - Monitoring white cell count is not directly related to epoetin alfa therapy. C: Potassium level - Monitoring potassium level is important for other medications like diuretics or ACE inhibitors, not specifically for epoetin alfa. D: Blood glucose level - Monitoring blood glucose level is important for diabetic patients but not directly related to epoetin alfa therapy.
Question 5 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 6 of 9
One study of Italian primary care physicians caring for diabetic patients showed that those scoring highest on the empathy test had patients with:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Statistically fewer acute diabetic complications. This is because the study found a correlation between high empathy scores of physicians and lower occurrences of acute diabetic complications in their patients. The use of the term "statistically" implies a significant and reliable relationship between physician empathy and patient outcomes. Choice A is incorrect because the study did not specify "significantly" fewer complications, only a correlation with high empathy scores. Choice C is incorrect as there was no evidence of higher rates of chronic complications associated with physician empathy. Choice D is incorrect as the study did not find statistically higher poor outcomes for patients with diabetes, but rather a relationship with fewer acute complications.
Question 7 of 9
A patient states, "I'm so worried that I might have cancer." The nurse responds, "It is time for you to eat breakfast." The nurse's response is an example of:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: changing the subject. The nurse's response shifts the conversation away from the patient's expression of worry about having cancer to a completely unrelated topic - eating breakfast. This technique blocks effective communication as it disregards the patient's concerns and prevents further exploration of the underlying issue. By redirecting the conversation, the nurse fails to address the patient's emotional needs and misses an opportunity to provide support and reassurance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the nurse's response in this scenario.
Question 8 of 9
Let me know how you're doing and whether you need any help."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides clear instructions to take vital signs on all patients in the lounge and report any problems. This ensures comprehensive assessment and communication. Choice A is incorrect because it lacks specificity and may lead to overlooking important tasks. Choice C and D are incorrect as they are blank. Providing clear and concise directions is crucial in delegation to ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse cares for a client who is scheduled for a breast biopsy. Which is the main purpose of the client–nurse relationship?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To assist the client in achieving and maintaining optimal health. The main purpose of the client-nurse relationship is to promote the client's health and well-being. The nurse's role is to support the client in achieving their health goals and maintaining good health. This goes beyond just providing care during a specific procedure like a breast biopsy. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because while they may be components of the client-nurse relationship, they do not encompass the main purpose of promoting optimal health.