Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because demonstrating understanding with empathy is the most therapeutic way for the nurse to communicate with a patient facing a terminal illness. Empathy allows the nurse to connect emotionally with the patient, showing support and compassion without judgment. This can help the patient feel heard and validated, leading to a sense of comfort and trust in the nurse. Choice A is incorrect because using an honest, judgmental attitude can be harmful and create distance between the nurse and the patient. Choice C is incorrect as acknowledging hope with sympathy may not always align with the patient's feelings and can come across as insincere. Choice D is incorrect because consistently evaluating the patient's feelings may feel intrusive and insensitive, rather than supportive.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates empathy and validates the patient's emotions. Acknowledging the patient's fear shows understanding and support, which is essential in therapeutic communication. Choice B gives false hope and may not be accurate. Choice C dismisses the seriousness of the diagnosis. Choice D is unrelated and does not address the patient's emotional needs. In summary, choice A is therapeutic as it shows empathy and support, while the other choices are either inaccurate, dismissive, or irrelevant.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because listening to the patient describe their feelings of anxiety related to severe dyspnea indicates empathy, active listening, and emotional support, which are essential for building a strong nurse-patient bond. By actively listening to the patient's concerns, the nurse shows genuine care and understanding, fostering trust and connection. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect: A: Expects the patient to meet exercise goals - This choice emphasizes a more authoritative approach and does not necessarily indicate a strong bond. C: Develops teaching plan based on learning preferences - While important for effective teaching, this choice focuses on education rather than emotional connection. D: Refrains from touching the patient - Touch can be a comforting gesture and important for physical assessment, but avoiding it altogether may not necessarily indicate bonding.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because collaborating with the client to develop an individualized plan of action empowers the client to take ownership of their smoking cessation journey. This approach considers the client's unique needs, preferences, and circumstances, increasing the likelihood of successful behavior change. Option A is less effective as simply advising the client to contact a quitline may not address the client's specific barriers or motivations. Option B focuses on interventions but lacks the personalized aspect that is crucial for behavior change. Option D, while important, does not directly involve the client in the decision-making process, reducing the client's engagement and investment in the cessation process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Threats. Threats are considered abusive conduct in the context of workplace bullying. Threats can create a hostile work environment and harm the well-being of nurses. Humiliation, intimidation, and physical abuse are also forms of abusive conduct, but in this specific question, the focus is on identifying the behavior that constitutes abuse within the professional environment for nurses. Therefore, while humiliation, intimidation, and physical abuse are indeed harmful behaviors, threats specifically align with the definition of abusive conduct as outlined by the Workplace Bullying Institute in the context of workplace bullying among nurses.