ATI RN
Communication Skills in Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
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. Showing interest by occasional head nodding conveys warmth as it demonstrates active listening and engagement with the patient. This non-verbal cue can make the patient feel heard and understood. Choice A is incorrect as avoiding distracting actions like hand gestures may come off as cold or disinterested. Choice C leaning forward at a 45-degree angle can be perceived as invading the patient's personal space rather than conveying warmth. Choice D, placing arms across the chest to prevent fidgeting, can be interpreted as defensive or closed-off, which does not communicate warmth to the patient.
Question 2 of 9
An experienced nurse is supervising a student nurse in an acute care setting. Which statement, if made by the experienced nurse, would be most appropriate to help the student nurse establish credibility with other nurses on the unit?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Be honest with the nurses about your strengths and about areas that need improvement." This statement is the most appropriate because it emphasizes the importance of being transparent and authentic in one's interactions. By acknowledging both strengths and areas for improvement, the student nurse shows humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn. This approach fosters trust and respect from other nurses, as it demonstrates a commitment to personal and professional growth. Option A is incorrect because it discourages the student nurse by implying that credibility is unattainable due to lack of experience. Option B is incorrect as it suggests hiding feelings of inadequacy, which can lead to inauthenticity and hinder genuine connections with colleagues. Option D is incorrect as it promotes a superficial and transactional approach to building relationships, rather than focusing on genuine communication and mutual respect.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who has type 2 diabetes mellitus and does not consistently follow the dietary restrictions and exercise recommendations. The patient takes a daily oral hypoglycemic agent as prescribed. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it focuses on encouraging the patient to engage in physical activity, which is important in managing type 2 diabetes. Walking a few blocks every other day can help improve blood sugar control. Choice A is incorrect because while taking medication is important, it is not the only aspect of managing diabetes. Choice C is inappropriate as it is judgmental and can damage the nurse-patient relationship. Choice D is incorrect as it is defeatist and does not promote positive behavior change.
Question 4 of 9
When a nurse is conducting an assessment interview, the most efficient technique would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, asking closed questions to obtain essential information, because closed questions are direct and efficient in gathering specific details quickly. Open-ended questions may lead to lengthy responses and may not yield precise information. Excluding relatives and friends (choice B) is not necessary and may hinder communication. Explaining the purpose of the interview (choice A) is important but may not be the most efficient technique initially. Telling the patient what data are already available (choice C) may bias their responses and limit the information obtained.
Question 5 of 9
The team leader must assign a UAP to help care for Mr. N with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For this neutropenic client, which factor is most important in making this assignment?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the UAP having no experience with neutropenic precautions is the most important factor to consider when assigning care for a neutropenic client like Mr. N. Neutropenic clients are at high risk for infections due to low white blood cell count, so it is crucial for the UAP to have knowledge and experience in following strict infection control practices. Choices A, B, and D are not as critical because a UAP being pregnant in the first trimester, having cold symptoms, or having a fear of isolation clients do not directly impact their ability to provide safe care for a neutropenic client.
Question 6 of 9
In helping a client such a Ms. C, who had a colostomy with a bowel resection, which tasks can be delegated to the UAP? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assist Ms. C with perineal care. This task can be safely delegated to an Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) as it involves basic hygiene and does not require specialized medical training. Perineal care includes cleaning the area around the stoma, which is important for maintaining skin integrity and preventing infection. UAPs can be trained to provide this type of care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Choices B, C, and D involve more specialized skills such as proper positioning of the adhesive wafer, measuring colostomy contents, and reapplying a new colostomy bag, which should be performed by a licensed healthcare professional such as a nurse. Delegating these tasks to a UAP could pose a risk to the client's health and safety.
Question 7 of 9
The team leader is working through the preoperative checklist and Ms. G, who has a breast lump, begins to cry. "What do you think about this breast surgery? My friend's arm got really swollen after she had the surgery. Can't I just take medication?" What is the priority nursing concept to consider in responding to Ms. G?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anxiety. The priority nursing concept to consider in responding to Ms. G is anxiety because her emotional distress is evident through crying and expressing concerns about surgery. Addressing her anxiety is crucial to provide emotional support and ensure her well-being throughout the surgical process. By acknowledging her feelings, the nurse can help alleviate her fears, provide education about the surgery, and offer coping strategies. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the immediate emotional needs of the patient in this situation. Cellular regulation focuses on physiological processes, functional ability pertains to physical capabilities, and adherence relates to following treatment plans, which are not the primary concerns when a patient is experiencing anxiety and emotional distress.
Question 8 of 9
A patient asks the nurse to make a decision for her about whether or not to continue taking hormone replacement therapy (estrogen). Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it supports patient autonomy and informed decision-making. As a nurse, it is essential to empower patients to make their own healthcare decisions. By offering to answer questions and providing information, the nurse encourages the patient to take an active role in their treatment plan. This approach respects the patient's right to choose and promotes shared decision-making. Choice A is incorrect as it deflects responsibility and does not encourage the patient to be involved in the decision-making process. Choice B is irrelevant as personal anecdotes are not a reliable basis for medical decisions. Choice D is incorrect as it promotes personal preference over evidence-based practice. Ultimately, choice C aligns with ethical principles of patient-centered care and respects the patient's autonomy.
Question 9 of 9
When communicating with a preschooler, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Preschoolers have limited vocabulary and understanding, so using familiar words is essential. Step 2: Simple, short sentences are easier for preschoolers to comprehend. Step 3: Concrete explanations help preschoolers grasp concepts better. Step 4: Considering developmental level ensures effective communication. Summary: A, B, and C are incorrect as they go against the principles of effective communication with preschoolers.