ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 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 2 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.
Question 3 of 5
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 promotes transparency, self-awareness, and humility, which are important traits in gaining credibility. Being honest about strengths shows confidence, while acknowledging areas for improvement demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow. This approach fosters trust and respect among colleagues. Choice A is incorrect as it undermines the student nurse's potential for credibility based on experience. Choice B suggests masking feelings of inadequacy, which can lead to inauthentic interactions. Choice D is inappropriate as it implies trying to buy favor with treats rather than earning credibility through professional conduct.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse cares for the mother of a child who died in the emergency room as a result of an accidental poisoning. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because accurately reflecting on the mother's feelings shows understanding and empathy, validating her emotions. This approach helps establish trust and connection, essential in providing emotional support. A: Placing greater emphasis on nonverbal aspects may not effectively convey empathy and understanding. C: Merely repeating exact phrases may come off as insincere and robotic, lacking genuine empathy. D: Reflecting on the mother's feelings using the nurse's own words may not accurately capture the depth of the mother's emotions and may lead to misinterpretation.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse plans to use self-disclosure to aid a mother and father in the grieving process after the death of their child. The steps of a helpful self-disclosure appear below. What is the first step?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Listen to the parents talk about their child and observe their movements and gestures. This is the first step in helpful self-disclosure because it allows the nurse to understand the parents' emotions and experiences before sharing their own. By actively listening and observing, the nurse can establish a connection with the parents and demonstrate empathy. This step sets the foundation for effective communication and builds trust between the nurse and the parents. Incorrect choices: A: Succinctly share a personal experience that is a similar grieving experience. This is not the first step because it doesn't consider the parents' feelings and might come across as insensitive or self-centered. C: Reflect upon the parent's statements to communicate understanding. While reflection is important, it should come after active listening to ensure the nurse fully grasps the parents' emotions. D: Seek verification that the self-disclosure was helpful to the child's parents. Seeking verification should come at a later stage after the nurse has provided support and guidance through