ATI RN
Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nursing student tells the team leader that Ms. C (bowel resection and colostomy) has just asked her to stay after the shift ends so that she can meet her granddaughter. What is the best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct response is C: "It sounds like you really made a connection with Ms. C." This response acknowledges the student's positive interaction with the patient, encouraging empathy and recognizing the importance of building therapeutic relationships in nursing practice. By showing support and validation for the student's connection with the patient, it fosters a positive learning experience and reinforces the value of patient-centered care. Choice A is incorrect as it deflects responsibility onto the instructor and does not address the student's interaction with the patient. Choice B puts the focus on the student's opinion rather than acknowledging the relationship with the patient. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the student's connection with the patient and does not encourage the development of a therapeutic relationship.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse is delegating to a nursing assistant. The most appropriate form of this type of communication would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it provides clear, specific instructions for the nursing assistant on when to notify the nurse about Mr. Jones' condition. It includes a specific parameter (heart rate greater than 100) which helps in identifying the urgency of the situation. Options A, B, and C are vague and lack specificity, making it difficult for the nursing assistant to know when to escalate the situation. Option D ensures effective communication and appropriate delegation by setting clear expectations for when the nurse needs to be notified.
Question 3 of 9
Which describes characteristics of mutuality in the nurse–client relationship? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Collaboration. Mutuality in the nurse-client relationship involves working together towards shared goals, with both parties actively participating and contributing to decision-making processes. Collaboration fosters a relationship based on equality, respect, and shared responsibility, leading to improved outcomes for the client. A: Dependency is not a characteristic of mutuality as it implies one party relying solely on the other, which goes against the principles of collaboration and shared decision-making. C: Paternalism is not a characteristic of mutuality as it involves a one-sided approach where the nurse makes decisions on behalf of the client without their active involvement or input. D: Acceptance of differences, while important in promoting understanding and respect in the relationship, is not a defining characteristic of mutuality. It is more about acknowledging and respecting each other's unique perspectives rather than actively collaborating towards common goals.
Question 4 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 5 of 9
The nurse is providing care to a patient who was admitted with heart failure. The patient has not been following the prescribed diet or taking the prescribed medications. Which type of communication approach is most important for the nurse to use with this patient to facilitate a change in self-care behavior?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assertive, responsible, and caring communication. This approach is effective because it involves setting clear boundaries (assertive), taking ownership of the situation (responsible), and showing empathy and support (caring). By being assertive, the nurse can communicate expectations clearly. Being responsible conveys accountability and encourages the patient to take ownership of their health. The caring aspect fosters a supportive environment, making the patient feel understood and motivated to change. Choice A (Authoritative, honest, and outright communication) may come off as too forceful and may not promote cooperation. Choice C (Aggressive, sympathetic, and realistic communication) is contradictory - being aggressive does not align with being sympathetic. Choice D (Positive, expert, and focused communication) lacks the element of assertiveness needed to set clear boundaries and expectations.
Question 6 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 7 of 9
The nurse cares for a client with abdominal pain who is scheduled for exploratory surgery. Which statement(s), if made by the nurse, indicates that the client's rights in the helping relationship have been violated? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it indicates a violation of the client's rights in the helping relationship. By stating "I do not have time right now to help you call your family," the nurse is disregarding the client's need for support and communication with their family, which is a fundamental aspect of patient rights. This response demonstrates a lack of empathy and neglect of the client's emotional needs during a vulnerable time. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: B: "I am available to answer questions that you may have about your surgery." - This choice demonstrates the nurse's willingness to provide information and support, which aligns with the client's rights. C: "You seem frightened. I will stay with you until your family arrives." - This choice shows the nurse's empathy and commitment to the client's emotional well-being, respecting the client's rights. D: "Your neighbors called, and I told them that you will have surgery." - This choice shows the nurse's communication with others
Question 8 of 9
The practical nursing student who is engaged in a therapeutic communication with a patient will have the most difficulty with the technique of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: silence. In therapeutic communication, silence can be challenging for students as it requires them to be comfortable with pauses in conversation, which can sometimes feel awkward. However, silence can be a powerful tool in allowing the patient to reflect and express their thoughts. Closed questions (A) limit communication, restating (B) encourages the patient to elaborate, and using general leads (C) helps open up the conversation. Therefore, the practical nursing student will have the most difficulty with silence as it may be perceived as ineffective or uncomfortable.
Question 9 of 9
Mr. N (non-Hodgkin lymphoma) shyly asks, "Do doctors have a special way that they wash their hands? Everybody washes their hands and then rewashes their hands before they touch me or any of my personal items. Everybody—except that one doctor." What is the team leader's priority action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because addressing the client's concerns directly with the healthcare provider (HCP) is the most immediate and effective way to ensure proper infection control procedures are followed. By approaching the HCP and explaining the client's observations and concerns, the team leader can facilitate communication and potentially prevent any lapses in infection control. This action promotes patient safety and trust in the healthcare team. Choice A is incorrect because assuming the HCP washed hands without confirmation can lead to overlooking potential gaps in infection control. Choice B is incorrect as it does not address the client's specific observation and concerns. Choice C is not the priority as contacting infection control should come after addressing the issue with the HCP directly.