ATI RN
Communication Skills in Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 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.
Question 2 of 9
The nursing supervisor instructs a group of novice nurses about the appropriate use of self-disclosure with patients. The nursing supervisor determines that teaching was successful if the novice nurse makes which statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Choice A is correct because it highlights the essence of self-disclosure in helping patients understand the nurse better. 2. Self-disclosure should focus on the nurse's own experiences, not stories about others (Choice B). 3. Self-disclosure can indeed be used to build trust with patients, but the primary goal is patient understanding (Choice C). 4. Fabricating personal experiences is unethical and goes against the purpose of self-disclosure (Choice D).
Question 3 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 4 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who has metastatic cancer. Which action(s) by the nurse conveys warmth? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Showing interest by occasional head nodding conveys warmth as it demonstrates active listening and engagement with the patient. This non-verbal cue can make the patient feel heard and understood. Choice A is incorrect as avoiding distracting actions like hand gestures may come off as cold or disinterested. Choice C leaning forward at a 45-degree angle can be perceived as invading the patient's personal space rather than conveying warmth. Choice D, placing arms across the chest to prevent fidgeting, can be interpreted as defensive or closed-off, which does not communicate warmth to the patient.
Question 5 of 9
A non-Hispanic white nurse provides care to mostly Hispanic patients. It would be most important for the nurse to take which action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because understanding cultural influences on healthcare perceptions and behaviors is essential for providing effective care to patients from different backgrounds. By discovering these influences, the nurse can better communicate, build trust, and provide culturally sensitive care. Choice B is incorrect as it may disregard the importance of the patients' own cultural beliefs and practices. Choice C is incorrect as avoiding confrontation of discrimination issues may perpetuate disparities in care. Choice D is incorrect as speaking Spanish is helpful but not as crucial as understanding cultural influences.
Question 6 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 7 of 9
The nurse makes a home visit to a client with chronic kidney disease. The client asks the nurse to make the decision about whether or not to start dialysis. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it promotes client autonomy and informed decision-making. By inviting the client to make a decision after reviewing options, the nurse respects the client's right to self-determination. This approach empowers the client to participate in their own care and make decisions aligned with their values and preferences. It also fosters a collaborative relationship between the nurse and client. Choice A is incorrect because appointing a durable power of attorney does not directly address the client's request for assistance in making a decision about dialysis. Choice C is incorrect as directing the client to have the physician make the decision undermines the client's autonomy. Choice D is incorrect as it does not actively involve the client in the decision-making process.
Question 8 of 9
To enhance the establishment of rapport with a patient, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because acting in a trustworthy and reliable manner and respecting the individuality of the patient are key components in building rapport. By being trustworthy, the nurse establishes a sense of security and reliability, which is crucial in a patient-nurse relationship. Respecting the patient's individuality shows empathy and understanding, making the patient feel valued and heard. Option A is incorrect because although introducing oneself is important, doing it repeatedly may come off as impersonal. Option B is incorrect as sharing personal experiences can blur professional boundaries and shift the focus away from the patient. Option D is incorrect as sharing information about other patients violates their privacy and confidentiality, which can damage trust and rapport with the patient.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is alert to avoid using blocks to effective communication that include: (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: changing the subject. This is because changing the subject can disrupt the flow of communication and hinder understanding. By abruptly shifting the focus away from the current topic, the nurse may miss important information or fail to address the patient's concerns. Nonjudgmental remarks (B) are encouraged to foster open communication. Giving advice (C) and asking probing questions (D) can be effective communication tools when used appropriately, but they may not necessarily block effective communication if done in a respectful and empathetic manner.