ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 4
In the early postoperative period, what is the priority concern for Mr. L, who has a tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: High risk for aspiration because of secretions and removal of epiglottis. This is the priority concern for Mr. L due to the risk of food or liquid entering the airway, leading to aspiration pneumonia and respiratory distress. The tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy compromise the airway protection mechanism, increasing the risk of aspiration. Options A and B are not the priority as infection and poor nutrition can be managed after addressing the risk of aspiration. Option C, while important for communication, is not as immediately life-threatening as the risk of aspiration.
Question 2 of 4
Ms. C (bowel resection) repeatedly refuses to perform a return demonstration of any aspect of colostomy care. Despite steady improvement and independent resumption of other ADLs, she protests, "I'm too weak. You'll have to do it for me." At this point, what is the priority nursing concept to consider in planning interventions for Ms. C?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Functional ability. This is because the priority nursing concept to consider in planning interventions for Ms. C is her ability to independently perform colostomy care. By refusing to demonstrate, she may be indicating a lack of functional ability to manage this aspect of self-care. This is essential for her long-term independence and quality of life. Mobility (choice A) is important but not the priority in this case. Tissue integrity (choice B) is also crucial but not as immediate as ensuring functional ability. Coping (choice D) is important for emotional well-being but does not address the primary issue of functional ability for self-care.
Question 3 of 4
Ms. G (breast lumpectomy) continues to be anxious and tearful, and she says that she has changed her mind about the surgery, saying, "I'm going to go home. I just can't deal with everything that is going on right now. I need some time to think about things." What is the best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges Ms. G's autonomy and respects her right to make decisions about her own body. By validating her feelings and choices, it helps build trust and rapport. Choice B is incorrect as it disregards Ms. G's emotional state and can come off as dismissive. Choice C assumes Ms. G needs immediate medical intervention without exploring her concerns further. Choice D, although showing empathy, does not directly address Ms. G's decision to change her mind about the surgery.
Question 4 of 4
Mr. U (pulmonary resection) has developed a tension pneumothorax. He is currently receiving high-flow oxygen via nonrebreather mask but continues to experience respiratory distress. What is the priority action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Perform a needle thoracotomy with a 14- to 16-gauge catheter needle. Rationale: 1. Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening emergency where air accumulates in the pleural space, causing lung collapse and increased pressure in the chest. 2. The standard treatment for tension pneumothorax is needle thoracostomy, which involves inserting a large-bore needle into the chest to release the trapped air. 3. In this scenario, Mr. U is in respiratory distress despite receiving high-flow oxygen, indicating a significant problem with ventilation that requires immediate intervention. 4. Performing a needle thoracotomy will rapidly decompress the tension pneumothorax, relieving pressure on the heart and lungs, and improving respiratory function. 5. This action takes precedence over other options such as removing the occlusive dressing, initiating CPR, or calling for intubation equipment, as immediate decompression is crucial in managing tension pneumoth