ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse is caring for a patient who has just had a mastectomy (breast removal). The patient expresses concern that her husband will no longer find her attractive because of her mastectomy. The nurse appropriately responds:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates active listening and empathy by reflecting the patient's concern. It shows that the nurse acknowledges the patient's feelings without making assumptions or offering false reassurance. Answer B may invalidate the patient's feelings by assuming the husband will find her attractive. Answer C redirects the focus to the nurse's experience, which may not be relevant to the patient. Answer D is inappropriate as it suggests drastic action and does not address the patient's emotional needs.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse cares for an adult client who is diagnosed with active tuberculosis. Which action, if performed by the nurse during introductions, shows respect for the client? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because maintaining eye contact shows respect and attentiveness towards the client. It demonstrates active listening and helps build trust. Choice B is incorrect as avoiding touch may convey fear or stigma towards the client. Choice C is incorrect as it may create a sense of isolation rather than respect. Choice D is incorrect as small talk about the weather may not necessarily show genuine respect for the client's situation. Overall, maintaining eye contact is a universal sign of respect and connection in communication.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse instructs the nursing assistant to obtain temperatures on four patients and report abnormal findings immediately. Two hours later the nurse discovers that one of the patients had a fever that was not reported. The nurse is upset with the nursing assistant. Which statement, if made by the nurse, is concrete and specifically explains the nurse's feelings?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "I am disappointed because you did not follow my directions." This statement directly addresses the issue by highlighting the nursing assistant's failure to follow instructions, leading to the unreported fever. The nurse expresses disappointment, which is a concrete feeling based on the specific situation. Explanation: 1. "I am not dissatisfied with your performance, because we all make mistakes." - This choice downplays the seriousness of the situation and fails to address the specific issue of not following directions. 2. "You must have misunderstood. I wanted to know about any elevated temperatures." - This choice implies a possible misunderstanding without directly addressing the failure to report the fever. 3. "I am disappointed because you did not follow my directions." - This choice directly states the reason for the nurse's feelings, linking the disappointment to the nursing assistant's failure to report the fever. 4. "You have made me so angry. Why did you not report the fever to me?" - This choice uses
Question 4 of 9
For administering pain medication to Mr. U (lung cancer and pulmonary resection), which route is the nurse most likely to question?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Rectal. Administering pain medication rectally may not be suitable for Mr. U with lung cancer and pulmonary resection due to potential issues with absorption and unpredictable drug effects. The lung cancer and pulmonary resection could affect blood flow and absorption through the rectal mucosa. Oral route may be compromised due to nausea or vomiting. IV route provides rapid onset and precise dosing. Intramuscular route may be used but could have slower onset compared to IV. Overall, rectal route is most likely to be questioned due to uncertainties in drug absorption and effectiveness in this specific patient population.
Question 5 of 9
To begin talking with a newly admitted patient about pain management, the nurse would most appropriately state:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it encourages open communication and allows the patient to express their experience of pain. By asking the patient to describe their pain, the nurse gathers valuable information to assess and manage the pain effectively. Choice A may assume the patient's comfort level, Choice C assumes the pain is recurring without patient input, and Choice D dismisses the patient's concerns. Overall, only Choice B promotes active listening and patient-centered care.
Question 6 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 7 of 9
The team leader makes very brief rounds to see each client before receiving the shift report to ensure client safety and to help determine acuity and assignments. Which actions will these brief assessments entail? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because asking the client how they are feeling can provide valuable information about their current condition. It allows the team leader to assess the client's subjective well-being, any immediate concerns, and potential changes in health status. Noting mental status (choice B) and measuring vital signs (choice C) are not typically part of a brief assessment before shift report. Palpating chest and abdominal areas for pain (choice D) would require more thorough assessment and is not necessary during brief rounds.
Question 8 of 9
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 9 of 9
When communicating with an aphasic patient, the nurse appropriately:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because assuming the patient can understand shows respect and preserves their dignity. Speaking slowly and clearly allows the patient more time to process information. Choice A is incorrect as shouting may further confuse the patient. Choice C is incorrect as direct communication with the patient is essential.