ATI RN
Communication in Nursing Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse manager asks the staff nurse to work an extra shift. Which response by the staff nurse is assertive and based on rational beliefs?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it directly and assertively communicates the staff nurse's inability to work an extra shift. This response sets clear boundaries and respects the nurse's own limitations and well-being. It is based on rational beliefs as it acknowledges personal capacity without guilt or unnecessary explanations. Explanation of other choices: A: This choice is not assertive as it prioritizes avoiding upsetting the nurse manager over the nurse's own needs and boundaries. B: This response is confrontational and does not address the request directly, focusing instead on questioning past occurrences. D: While this response offers to work the extra shift as a last resort, it does not assert the nurse's own limitations clearly, leaving room for potential guilt or manipulation.
Question 2 of 9
During the initial interview of a patient, the nurse should: (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: assess the language capabilities of the patient. This is crucial to ensure effective communication and understanding. By assessing language capabilities, the nurse can tailor communication strategies appropriately. Option B is helpful but not as essential as language assessment. Option C is incorrect as the interview duration should be based on patient needs, not a set time limit. Option D is relevant, but assessing comprehension abilities alone may not be sufficient if language barriers exist.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse is caring for a patient who is concerned about living alone. The best response by the nurse is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it shows empathy by asking for the patient's thoughts first, respecting their autonomy. It promotes open communication and understanding of the patient's concerns. Choice B may come off as judgmental or invasive. Choice C imposes the nurse's opinion on the patient, disregarding their feelings. Choice D is incomplete.
Question 4 of 9
A nurse using active listening techniques would:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Answer A is correct because active listening involves using nonverbal cues such as leaning forward, focusing on the speaker's face, and nodding slightly to show that you are engaged and understanding the message. Leaning forward demonstrates interest, focusing on the face shows attentiveness, and nodding indicates acknowledgment. These actions encourage the speaker to continue sharing and feel heard. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Avoiding eye contact can make the speaker feel ignored or disconnected, which goes against the principles of active listening. C: Anticipating what the speaker is trying to say and finishing their sentences is not active listening; it can be seen as interrupting and not allowing the speaker to express themselves fully. D: Asking probing questions and directing the conversation towards obtaining specific information efficiently is not active listening. It can come across as controlling the conversation rather than actively listening to the speaker.
Question 5 of 9
While admitting a patient to the medical unit, the nurse should take which action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because developing a plan of care and measurable objectives with the patient promotes patient-centered care, encourages collaboration, and ensures the patient's active involvement in their own care. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and preferences, fosters shared decision-making, and enhances treatment adherence. A: Demonstrating human caring by hugging the patient may not be appropriate as it can violate professional boundaries and personal space. B: Disclosing shared intimate details with other healthcare providers breaches patient confidentiality and violates privacy rights. C: Maintaining a physical distance of at least 3 to 4 feet at all times may be necessary for infection control but does not address the core aspect of involving the patient in their care plan.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse cares for the mother of a child who died in the emergency room as a result of an accidental poisoning. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because accurately reflecting on the mother's feelings shows understanding and empathy, validating her emotions. This approach helps establish trust and connection, essential in providing emotional support. A: Placing greater emphasis on nonverbal aspects may not effectively convey empathy and understanding. C: Merely repeating exact phrases may come off as insincere and robotic, lacking genuine empathy. D: Reflecting on the mother's feelings using the nurse's own words may not accurately capture the depth of the mother's emotions and may lead to misinterpretation.
Question 7 of 9
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 8 of 9
According to Swanson's theory, there are five caring processes, one of which is "being with.= Which of the responses by the nurse portrays an understanding of the concept of "being with= a client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Swanson's theory emphasizes the importance of "being with" a client, which involves being emotionally present and fully engaged. Step 2: Choice D reflects the concept of "being with" as it highlights the nurse's emotional presence and connection with the client. Step 3: The nurse actively engages with the client on an emotional level, demonstrating empathy and understanding. Step 4: Choices A, B, and C do not capture the essence of "being with" as they focus more on physical presence or logistical aspects rather than emotional connection. Summary: Choice D is correct because it aligns with the core principle of "being with" by emphasizing emotional presence, while the other choices lack this critical component.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse cares for a patient who becomes confused and a vest restraint is applied. The nurse should take which action when notifying the patient's family?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because having another nurse who has a good relationship with the family present can help facilitate effective communication and address any concerns or questions the family may have. This approach can help build trust and provide emotional support during a potentially difficult situation. A: Avoiding discussing the treatment plan can lead to confusion and distrust. C: Using medical terms may confuse or intimidate the family and hinder effective communication. D: Assuming the family wants a detailed explanation may not be accurate and can result in information overload.