ATI RN
Communication in Nursing 8th Edition Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
When the nurse observes a resident in a long-term facility pounding his fists on his legs and grinding his teeth, the nurse will validate her perception of the patient's nonverbal expression of anger by:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it demonstrates active listening and empathy towards the patient's nonverbal cues. By sitting down near the patient and acknowledging his emotions, the nurse opens up a channel for communication and offers support. This approach allows the patient to express his feelings and needs, leading to better understanding and potential resolution of the underlying issue. Other choices are incorrect because: A: Simply documenting the observation does not address the patient's emotional state or provide any opportunity for direct communication. B: Asking another staff member for their perception does not involve the patient directly and may not accurately reflect the patient's emotions. C: Referring to the care plan does not involve the patient in the process and may not address the immediate emotional needs expressed through nonverbal behavior.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse recognizes a verbal response when the patient:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Verbal communication involves words, either written or spoken. 2. Choice B states that the patient writes the answer to a question asked by the nurse, which involves using words. 3. Therefore, choice B correctly represents verbal communication. 4. Choices A, C, and D involve nonverbal communication methods such as nodding, sobbing, and moaning, which do not involve words.
Question 3 of 9
Which patient would most likely be uncomfortable with close personal space during an interaction with the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because cultural background and individual preferences influence personal space comfort. In this case, the 19-year-old white female patient standing only 2 feet away may feel uncomfortable with close personal space. Different cultures and age groups have varying norms regarding personal space. The other choices are less likely to be uncomfortable based on cultural norms and distance from the nurse. The 40-year-old African-American male patient sitting next to the nurse, the 60-year-old Latin-American female patient seated across, and the 82-year-old patient from France lying in bed with the nurse sitting next to them are all at a comfortable distance, thus less likely to be uncomfortable with personal space.
Question 4 of 9
The team leader is reviewing the pain management plan for Mr. U. He is having significant pain related to the cancer and the pulmonary resection. Which option would be the best for Mr. U?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because Mr. U is experiencing significant pain related to cancer and pulmonary resection, which typically requires continuous pain management. Around-the-clock fixed doses of opioid analgesics provide consistent pain relief and can be adjusted based on his pain levels. This approach ensures adequate pain control without the need for Mr. U to wait until the pain becomes severe before asking for medication. Option A may lead to undertreatment of pain. Option C delays effective pain relief for Mr. U who is already experiencing significant pain. Option D is incorrect as opioids can be safely administered with proper monitoring, even in patients at high risk for respiratory distress.
Question 5 of 9
The nurse is performing a well-child assessment on a 15-month-old child. The child's mother and father are present. Which action by the nurse will best determine the health beliefs and values of the parents?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is the correct answer because actively listening to the parents talk about their lives and health concerns allows the nurse to understand their perspectives, beliefs, and values. This helps build rapport and trust, providing insight into how they approach healthcare for their child. A: The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator survey is not relevant to understanding health beliefs and values. B: Reading documented health histories may provide medical information but does not necessarily reveal beliefs and values. D: Reviewing traditional health practices may be informative but does not directly assess the parents' personal beliefs and values.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse is aware that the purpose of therapeutic communication is to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because therapeutic communication aims to focus on the patient and their needs to facilitate a therapeutic interaction. This involves active listening, empathy, and creating a supportive environment for the patient to express their thoughts and feelings. Gathering information (choice A) is important but not the sole purpose of therapeutic communication. Directing the patient to communicate about deepest concerns (choice B) may not always be appropriate or helpful. Lastly, gaining specific medical information and history of illness (choice D) is part of a comprehensive assessment but not the primary goal of therapeutic communication.
Question 7 of 9
The charge nurse informs a staff nurse that it is her turn to float to another unit. Which response by the staff nurse is aggressive?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the response is aggressive and defensive. The staff nurse is making a negative and exaggerated statement about not surviving on the other unit, implying that others are incompetent and not willing to help. This response lacks professionalism and teamwork, showing an unwillingness to adapt and collaborate. Choice A is not aggressive as it expresses a personal negative experience and suggests sending another nurse. Choice B is not aggressive as it acknowledges the situation and shows understanding. Choice D is assertive but not necessarily aggressive; it implies importance but does not attack or undermine others.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse observes a student nurse who demonstrates nonverbal expressions that are cold and convey disinterest when caring for patients. Which statement, if made by the nurse, is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it provides constructive feedback and offers a solution to the observed issue. By suggesting the student nurse to closely observe how the nurse displays warmth to patients, it encourages learning through modeling and self-reflection. This approach promotes a positive learning environment and emphasizes the importance of improving communication skills. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on negative reinforcement and may lead to defensive reactions. Choice B is incorrect as it uses a confrontational approach, which can be demotivating and damaging to the student's self-esteem. Choice D is incorrect as it lacks specificity and guidance on how to improve, making it less effective in addressing the observed behavior.
Question 9 of 9
A patient is attracted to the nurse and attempts to initiate a social relationship. It is most appropriate for the nurse to take which action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it maintains professional boundaries, prioritizing the patient's well-being. By clearly stating that the relationship must remain professional, the nurse sets clear boundaries and avoids any potential ethical issues. Choice A is incorrect as it can lead to boundary violations and compromise patient care. Choice B is incorrect as it does not address the situation directly and may not be necessary if proper boundaries are set. Choice D is incorrect as transferring the patient may not address the underlying issue and is not a standard response to this situation.