ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse discusses smoking cessation with a client. Which action, if taken by the nurse, would most likely result in a behavior change?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because collaborating with the client to develop an individualized plan of action empowers the client to take ownership of their smoking cessation journey. This approach considers the client's unique needs, preferences, and circumstances, increasing the likelihood of successful behavior change. Option A is less effective as simply advising the client to contact a quitline may not address the client's specific barriers or motivations. Option B focuses on interventions but lacks the personalized aspect that is crucial for behavior change. Option D, while important, does not directly involve the client in the decision-making process, reducing the client's engagement and investment in the cessation process.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse caring for a patient who fell off the roof while he was intoxicated asks the patient, "Why in the world were you on the roof when you had been drinking?" The nurse's statement is an example of which type of communication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Asking probing questions. In this scenario, the nurse's question is intrusive and seeks detailed information that may not be necessary for the patient's care. Probing questions can make the patient feel uncomfortable and defensive, hindering effective communication. By asking why the patient was on the roof while intoxicated, the nurse is not focusing on the immediate care needs of the patient but rather delving into personal details. This type of communication can lead to a breakdown in trust between the nurse and the patient. Summary: A: Changing the subject - This is not the correct choice as the nurse's statement does not involve diverting the conversation to a different topic. B: Defensive response - This is not the correct choice as the nurse's statement is not defensive but rather inquisitive. C: Inattentive listening - This is not the correct choice as the nurse is actively engaging in conversation with the patient, albeit in a probing manner.
Question 3 of 9
The team leader is teaching the nursing student about emergency respiratory equipment that should be available for Mr. L (tracheostomy and partial laryngectomy). Which piece of equipment is the most important to show to the student?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bag-valve mask with extension tubing. This is the most important equipment to show to the student because it is essential for providing immediate ventilation support in case of respiratory distress for a patient with a tracheostomy or partial laryngectomy. The bag-valve mask allows for manual ventilation by delivering oxygen to the patient's lungs, and the extension tubing ensures easy access to the patient's airway. A: An adult-sized endotracheal tube is not the most important equipment in this scenario as the patient already has a tracheostomy in place. B: A laryngeal scope with blades of several sizes is used for visualizing the larynx and not essential for immediate respiratory support. D: A tracheostomy insertion tray is used for performing tracheostomy procedures and not required for routine emergency respiratory support. In summary, the bag-valve mask with extension tubing is the most critical equipment for immediate ventilation support
Question 4 of 9
The nurse needs to obtain a health history from a Spanish-speaking patient. Which action by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Request a Spanish-speaking medical interpreter. This is the best action because it ensures accurate and effective communication between the nurse and the patient, maintaining patient confidentiality and preventing misinterpretation. Using a bilingual friend of the patient (A) may lead to bias or inaccurate translation. Nonverbal communication and drawing pictures (B) may not convey complex medical information effectively. Interviewing the patient's English-speaking daughter (D) may result in miscommunication and potential inaccuracies in the health history.
Question 5 of 9
A patient is irritable and complains to the nurse about difficulty sleeping last night. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates active listening and encourages the patient to share more information about their difficulty sleeping. By asking the patient to elaborate, the nurse can gather important details to identify the root cause and provide appropriate interventions. Choice A is dismissive and lacks empathy. Choice C makes an assumption without gathering more information. Choice D is a generalization and does not address the patient's specific concerns.
Question 6 of 9
When the nurse is giving direction to a nursing assistant who is being delegated part of the patient care, the nurse's most effective direction would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it provides clear and specific instructions by prioritizing tasks (morning care) and specifying the patients (205 and 206, bedridden). This ensures efficient and effective care delivery. Choice B lacks specificity and may overwhelm the nursing assistant. Choice C and D are incomplete, providing no guidance. To delegate effectively, clear instructions, prioritization, and consideration of patient needs are essential.
Question 7 of 9
Ms. C (bowel resection and colostomy) repeatedly calls for help during the shift with various small requests. She is talkative and pleasant, and she does everything she can to get staff members to "stay and chat." What is the best response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B - "You'll be okay for right now, and I will come back and check on you later." Rationale: 1. Acknowledges the patient's needs without dismissing them. 2. Sets boundaries by indicating that the nurse will return later. 3. Shows concern for the patient's well-being. 4. Maintains professionalism while addressing the patient's behavior. Summary: A: Does not set boundaries, may encourage the patient to continue seeking attention. C: Does not address the immediate need for the patient's care and may prolong the conversation. D: Passing off responsibility to volunteers may not address the underlying issue of the patient seeking excessive attention.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse provides care to a client from Nigeria who is visiting the United States. Which should the nurse use to communicate with this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because conducting a cultural assessment allows the nurse to understand the client's unique health beliefs and behaviors. This helps in providing culturally sensitive care and promoting effective communication. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on generalizing health beliefs of a population without considering individual variations. Choice C is incorrect as it does not directly address the client's specific needs. Choice D is incorrect because standard communication techniques may not be culturally appropriate or effective in this situation. Conducting a cultural assessment is essential for providing client-centered care.
Question 9 of 9
A nurse manager asks a colleague for advice on strategies to improve communication with staff nurses. Which response by the nurse manager's colleague is best?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it provides a comprehensive approach to improving communication by emphasizing sensitivity, respect, and genuineness. Sensitivity shows empathy towards staff nurses, respect fosters a positive and professional environment, and genuineness builds trust. Choice B is too simplistic and may not address underlying communication issues. Choice C, while promoting empathy, is impractical and may not address communication challenges effectively. Choice D's focus on avoiding emotions overlooks the importance of emotional intelligence in effective communication. In summary, choice A encompasses key elements essential for fostering effective communication in a healthcare setting.