Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because developing self-awareness of personal healthcare beliefs is the first step in providing culturally competent care. By understanding one's own beliefs and biases, the nurse can approach care without imposing personal values. This self-awareness allows for better communication and respect for diverse client perspectives. A: Adopting a transcultural framework is important but should come after self-awareness to ensure authenticity. B: Asking clients about their beliefs is valuable, but understanding one's own beliefs must come first. D: Recognizing ethnocentric beliefs of minorities is important but not the initial step in providing culturally competent care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use a direct approach with succinct sentences. This is the most effective communication strategy because it promotes clear and concise communication, which is essential when discussing concerns related to client care. By using a direct approach, the nurse can effectively convey her message to the physician without any confusion or ambiguity. Choice A is incorrect because assuming a subservient role can undermine the nurse's professionalism and confidence. Choice C is incorrect because asking questions instead of making recommendations may not effectively address the concern at hand. Choice D is incorrect because politeness alone may not ensure effective communication if the message is not clearly articulated.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because appropriate self-disclosure in a therapeutic setting should be brief, focused, and only used if the experience is similar to the patient's situation. This helps to build rapport and create a sense of empathy without overstepping professional boundaries. Choice A is incorrect because discussing intimate or personal values with patients can lead to boundary issues. Choice B is incorrect because keeping secrets with or for a patient can compromise confidentiality and trust. Choice C is incorrect because expressing that you are the only one who truly understands the patient can create a power dynamic that is not conducive to a therapeutic relationship.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The closed question technique is used to gather specific information or facts. When a patient is being asked for specific information, using closed questions can help guide the conversation and elicit precise responses. Closed questions typically require a yes or no answer or a specific piece of information. In contrast, open-ended questions are more suitable when exploring feelings or emotions (choices B and C) or when dealing with confusion (choice D). Closed questions may not be effective when a patient is extremely anxious and unfocused, as open-ended questions may be more appropriate to allow the patient to express themselves more freely. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer because using closed questions in this scenario helps to gather precise information effectively.