ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse cares for a patient with a terminal illness. Which way would be the most therapeutic for the nurse to communicate with this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because demonstrating understanding with empathy is the most therapeutic way for the nurse to communicate with a patient facing a terminal illness. Empathy allows the nurse to connect emotionally with the patient, showing support and compassion without judgment. This can help the patient feel heard and validated, leading to a sense of comfort and trust in the nurse. Choice A is incorrect because using an honest, judgmental attitude can be harmful and create distance between the nurse and the patient. Choice C is incorrect as acknowledging hope with sympathy may not always align with the patient's feelings and can come across as insincere. Choice D is incorrect because consistently evaluating the patient's feelings may feel intrusive and insensitive, rather than supportive.
Question 2 of 5
According to the NCSBN, appropriate self-disclosure is a part of maintaining professional boundaries. Appropriate self-disclosure includes the following:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because appropriate self-disclosure in a therapeutic setting should be brief, focused, and only used if the experience is similar to the patient's situation. This helps to build rapport and create a sense of empathy without overstepping professional boundaries. Choice A is incorrect because discussing intimate or personal values with patients can lead to boundary issues. Choice B is incorrect because keeping secrets with or for a patient can compromise confidentiality and trust. Choice C is incorrect because expressing that you are the only one who truly understands the patient can create a power dynamic that is not conducive to a therapeutic relationship.
Question 3 of 5
A teacher at a local elementary school asks a nurse to talk to the students about nutrition. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates the nurse's commitment to understanding the teacher's specific goals and tailoring the nutrition education to meet those needs. By asking what the teacher wants the students to learn, the nurse can provide targeted and relevant information. A is incorrect because it assumes teaching nutrition labels is the best approach without considering the teacher's objectives. C is incorrect because focusing on the consequences of obesity may not align with the teacher's goals for the session. D is incorrect as it prioritizes the nurse's enjoyment over meeting the educational needs of the students.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse manager offers a staff nurse a choice between working 8- or 12-hour shifts. Which statement, if made by the staff nurse, is nonassertive and may result in a frustrated response from the nurse manager?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: - Choice A is correct because it is nonassertive and implies a desire for control over others' schedules, which may frustrate the nurse manager. - Choice B is incorrect because it shows indifference, not assertiveness. - Choice C is incorrect as it expresses a clear preference without being nonassertive. - Choice D is incorrect because it is assertive but in a negative and confrontational way.
Question 5 of 5
The charge nurse informs a staff nurse that it is her turn to float to another unit. Which response by the staff nurse is aggressive?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it contains a threat ("you'll be sorry") and implies superiority ("you cannot handle emergencies without me"). This response is aggressive as it seeks to manipulate or intimidate the charge nurse. In contrast, choices A, B, and C express concerns or opinions without aggression by simply stating feelings or thoughts without any form of threat or superiority.