ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The home care nurse visits a mother and her newborn 2 days after discharge from the hospital. The mother states, "My baby cries all the time. I must not be a very good mother.= Which response by the nurse is nontherapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it dismisses the mother's feelings and suggests a temporary distraction instead of addressing her concerns. Choice A validates the mother's feelings and promotes open communication. Choice B demonstrates empathy and physical support. Choice D encourages the mother to express her emotions further for better understanding. Overall, choice C is nontherapeutic as it does not address the underlying issue of the mother's feelings of inadequacy and instead offers a superficial solution.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse cares for a client who does not follow dietary recommendations for treatment of heart failure. Which statement, if made by the nurse, demonstrates respect for the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates empathy and respect for the client's autonomy. By stating "I care about you even if you are not following your dietary restrictions," the nurse acknowledges the client's choice while still showing concern for their well-being. This response fosters a supportive and non-judgmental relationship with the client. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they either show indifference, use coercion, or imply a comparison between patients based on their dietary choices. These responses do not prioritize the client's feelings, choices, or autonomy, which is essential in providing patient-centered care.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse cares for a patient who has metastatic cancer. Which action(s) by the nurse conveys warmth? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Show interest by occasional head nodding. This action conveys warmth by demonstrating active listening and engagement with the patient. It shows empathy and understanding without being intrusive. Avoiding distracting actions such as hand gestures (A) may come across as cold or disinterested. Leaning forward toward the patient at a 45-degree angle (C) can be perceived as invading personal space. Placing arms across the chest to prevent fidgeting (D) may appear defensive or closed off, lacking warmth and openness.
Question 4 of 5
It would be most important for the nurse to temporarily withdraw expressions of warmth to which patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient with a history of violent behavior poses a potential risk to the nurse's safety. Temporarily withdrawing expressions of warmth is important to establish boundaries and ensure safety. Choice A involves an angry patient, but the risk of violence is higher with a history of violent behavior. Choices B and C do not indicate immediate safety concerns.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse instructs a client who is diagnosed with hypertension about weight reduction and dietary guidelines. Which action by the nurse would most likely improve the client's willingness to lose weight and eat healthy foods?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because giving genuine praise to the client for trying to improve dietary habits can positively reinforce their efforts and motivation to continue making healthy choices. This positive reinforcement can help the client feel supported and encouraged in their weight reduction and dietary goals. Choice A is incorrect because avoiding interaction during meals may make the client feel isolated and unsupported. Choice B is incorrect because ignoring the client's requests for high-fat or high-calorie foods may lead to feelings of deprivation and resistance to dietary changes. Choice D is incorrect because warning the client about potential negative consequences of being overweight can induce fear and may not be effective in promoting long-term behavior change.