The team leader is working through the preoperative checklist and Ms. G, who has a breast lump, begins to cry. "What do you think about this breast surgery? My friend's arm got really swollen after she had the surgery. Can't I just take medication?" What is the priority nursing concept to consider in responding to Ms. G?

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Communication Skills in Nursing Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

The team leader is working through the preoperative checklist and Ms. G, who has a breast lump, begins to cry. "What do you think about this breast surgery? My friend's arm got really swollen after she had the surgery. Can't I just take medication?" What is the priority nursing concept to consider in responding to Ms. G?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anxiety. The priority nursing concept to consider in responding to Ms. G is anxiety because her emotional distress is evident through crying and expressing concerns about surgery. Addressing her anxiety is crucial to provide emotional support and ensure her well-being throughout the surgical process. By acknowledging her feelings, the nurse can help alleviate her fears, provide education about the surgery, and offer coping strategies. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the immediate emotional needs of the patient in this situation. Cellular regulation focuses on physiological processes, functional ability pertains to physical capabilities, and adherence relates to following treatment plans, which are not the primary concerns when a patient is experiencing anxiety and emotional distress.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse says to a patient, "I am going to take your TPR, and then I'll check to see whether you can have a PRN analgesic." In considering factors that affect communication, the nurse has:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Correct Answer: C - The nurse has used medical jargon, which might not be understood by the patient. Rationale: 1. "TPR" and "PRN" are medical abbreviations that may not be familiar to the patient. 2. Using medical jargon can lead to confusion and miscommunication. 3. Effective communication in healthcare requires using language that the patient can easily understand. 4. It is important for the nurse to ensure clear and concise communication to promote patient understanding and cooperation. Summary of other choices: A: This choice is incorrect because using terminology that the patient may not understand does not constitute clear communication. B: This choice is incorrect because providing relevant information, even if technical, is not unnecessary if it aids in patient understanding. D: This choice is incorrect because simply stating what is happening without ensuring understanding does not address the issue of effective communication.

Question 3 of 5

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 4 of 5

A patient with a nursing diagnosis of Sensory perception, disturbed auditory, would most appropriately require the nurse to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Disturbed auditory perception means there is a deficit in the ability to receive/process auditory information. Step 2: Speaking slowly and distinctly helps the patient better understand and process the information. Step 3: Shouting may distort the sound and further confuse the patient. Step 4: Other options (A, C, D) address different sensory deficits and are not directly related to disturbed auditory perception.

Question 5 of 5

When the patient says, "I get so anxious just lying here in this hospital bed. I have a million things I should be doing at home," the most empathetic response would be:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - "It sounds like you're having a tough time dealing with this situation." Rationale: 1. Acknowledges feelings: The response acknowledges the patient's feelings of anxiety and difficulty. 2. Empathy: It shows empathy by recognizing the patient's emotional state. 3. Validation: Validates the patient's experience without making assumptions or minimizing their feelings. Incorrect Choices: A: Invalidating response, assumes feelings. C: Provides a generic platitude, lacks specific acknowledgment of the patient's feelings. D: Appears judgmental and dismissive of the patient's emotions.

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