ATI RN
Communication Skills in Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse is aware that the use of false reassurance is harmful to the nurse-patient relationship, because this communication block:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because false reassurance dismisses the patient's concerns, invalidating their feelings and diminishing trust. By not acknowledging the patient's worries, the nurse fails to address the root of the issue and hinders open communication. Choice B is incorrect because false reassurance does not necessarily imply judgment. Choice C is incorrect as it does not summarize concerns but rather downplays them. Choice D is incorrect as it does not confuse the patient but rather fails to address their emotional needs.
Question 2 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 3 of 9
Which characteristic would the nurse use to define culture? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Culture is defined as learned and shared lifeways of a particular group. This encompasses traditions, customs, beliefs, and practices. Step 2: This definition aligns with the concept of culture as a dynamic and evolving entity shaped by societal influences. Step 3: Social identity influenced by language and religion (B) is a component of culture, but not an all-encompassing definition. Step 4: Belief in the superiority of one's own ethnic group (C) is a cultural bias and does not define culture as a whole. Step 5: Values influencing thinking and actions (D) are important aspects of culture but do not fully encapsulate the complexity of cultural identity.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse observes a nursing assistant interacting with an elderly patient. Which statement by the nursing assistant requires an immediate intervention by the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because addressing an elderly patient as "Sweetie" is unprofessional and inappropriate. It can be seen as demeaning and disrespectful. The nurse should intervene immediately to remind the nursing assistant to maintain a professional and respectful tone when speaking to patients. A, B, and C are not the correct answers because they all involve appropriate and respectful ways of interacting with elderly patients. Offering to help remember the room location, reading from the patient's Bible, and asking for stories about their youth are all positive ways to engage with the patient and provide compassionate care.
Question 5 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 6 of 9
A nurse openly and genuinely discusses thoughts and feelings about sexually transmitted infections with a group of college students. Which benefit(s) may occur for these college students? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because openly discussing sexually transmitted infections can help build trust between the nurse and the college students. This trust can lead to a more open and honest dialogue, making the students feel comfortable seeking information and support. Choice A is incorrect because open discussions would likely encourage continued engagement. Choice C is incorrect as discussing such important topics can enhance the nurse's credibility. Choice D is incorrect as open communication fosters belief in the reliability and accuracy of the information shared.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who complains of back pain. Which question should the nurse ask to obtain specific information about the back pain?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "What do you think caused the back pain?" This question helps to gather specific information about the patient's perception and understanding of the back pain, which can provide valuable insights into the potential cause and severity. By understanding the patient's perspective, the nurse can tailor further assessments and interventions accordingly. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on offering medication without addressing the underlying cause of the pain. Choice B is incorrect as it is too broad and may not directly elicit information related to the back pain. Choice C is incorrect as it pertains to family history of osteoporosis, which may not be directly relevant to the current back pain complaint.
Question 8 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 9 of 9
The nurse is caring for a patient with a diagnosis of lung cancer. The nurse states, "If I were you, I would have radiation therapy." The nurse's statement is an example of which type of communication block?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Giving advice. In this scenario, the nurse is directly advising the patient on a course of action without fully understanding the patient's individual needs or preferences. Giving advice can hinder effective communication as it may come across as imposing one's own opinions onto the patient. In this case, the nurse should focus on empathetic listening and supporting the patient in making their own informed decisions. Incorrect choices: A: Inattentive listening - This refers to not paying attention to the patient, which is not demonstrated in the scenario. C: Using clichés - Clichés are overused phrases that lack originality, which is not the issue in the nurse's statement. D: Defensive response - This involves reacting defensively to criticism or feedback, which is not applicable to the nurse's advice-giving behavior in this scenario.