ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse explains that the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship differs from the social relationship because:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because in a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, the focus is mainly on the nurse being therapeutically beneficial to the patient. This relationship is professional, goal-oriented, and centered on the patient's needs and well-being. The nurse's primary role is to provide care, support, and help the patient achieve their health goals. Unlike a social relationship, where the focus is mutual and not solely on the nurse, the therapeutic relationship is asymmetrical, with the nurse taking on a more authoritative and guiding role. This ensures that the patient receives the necessary care and support during their healthcare journey. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a social relationship can have goals or needs to be met, the nurse-patient relationship extends beyond the patient's discharge, and trust and sharing of life experiences are essential components of the nurse-patient relationship.
Question 2 of 5
A patient asks the nurse, "What would you do if you had cancer and had to choose between surgery and chemotherapy?" The reply that can best help the patient is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer B is correct: 1. Answer B encourages patient autonomy by asking what solutions the patient has considered. 2. This response acknowledges the patient's ability to make decisions about their own healthcare. 3. By asking the patient about their considered solutions, the nurse can guide the discussion towards exploring different options. 4. This approach promotes shared decision-making between the patient and healthcare provider. 5. It empowers the patient to actively participate in their treatment planning. 6. Ultimately, answer B respects the patient's autonomy, fosters open communication, and supports informed decision-making.
Question 3 of 5
While interviewing a Native American man for the admission history, the nurse should expect to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges the cultural communication norms of Native American individuals, who may take longer pauses during conversations to reflect and respond thoughtfully. By waiting patiently through these pauses, the nurse shows respect for the individual's communication style and allows for effective dialogue. Option B is incorrect because maintaining constant eye contact may be perceived as confrontational or disrespectful in some Native American cultures. Option C is incorrect as it assumes the patient needs permission to speak, which may not align with their cultural norms. Option D is incorrect as it undermines the individual's autonomy and may not accurately represent their perspective.
Question 4 of 5
When interacting with an older adult patient, the nurse would enhance communication by:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because speaking slowly allows the older adult patient to process the message at their own pace, considering potential hearing or cognitive impairments. Speaking slowly also shows respect and patience. Option B is incorrect because using the first name may not be culturally appropriate or may not align with the patient's preference for formality. Option C is incorrect because standing in the doorway may be seen as disrespectful and inhibit effective communication by creating physical barriers. Option D is incorrect because speaking in simple sentences is important, but speaking as if to a child may be patronizing and disrespectful to the older adult patient.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse tells a patient, "For the last 2 days we have talked about whether to notify your daughter of your upcoming surgery in 2 days. You have indicated you do not want to be a burden to her, but you also would like to have her here. You may have to decide rather quickly because of the time constraint." The nurse is using the technique of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: summarizing. Summarizing involves presenting the problem and potential solutions to the patient in a clear and concise manner. In this scenario, the nurse is summarizing the patient's thoughts and concerns about notifying their daughter of the upcoming surgery. By doing so, the nurse is helping the patient to make a decision by clarifying the situation and potential options. This technique allows the patient to reflect on the information presented and make an informed choice. A: Focusing involves directing the conversation to a specific topic or issue. B: Reflection involves restating the patient's feelings or thoughts to show understanding. C: Restatement involves repeating the patient's words to confirm understanding. Therefore, the correct answer is D because summarizing is the technique being used in this scenario to help the patient make a decision regarding notifying their daughter about the upcoming surgery.