Communication in Nursing Practice Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because addressing an elderly patient as "Sweetie" is inappropriate and unprofessional. It can be perceived as demeaning and disrespectful. The nurse should intervene immediately to address this issue. Choices A, B, and C are all appropriate ways to interact with an elderly patient and promote their well-being. Choice A shows willingness to assist with orientation, choice B offers emotional support through spiritual means, and choice C encourages reminiscence therapy, which can be beneficial for cognitive function.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because using a soft and relaxed tone of voice conveys warmth and concern, making the patient feel welcomed and cared for. It helps build rapport and comfort. Maintaining a distance of 6 to 8 feet (B) may create a sense of coldness and detachment. Avoiding attentive behaviors (C) will make the patient feel neglected and uncared for. Engaging in verbal exchange without physical contact (D) lacks the personal touch needed to show warmth and concern.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: a difference in culturally learned personal space of the nurse and the patient. This is because different cultures have varying norms regarding personal space. In this scenario, the Hispanic patient touching the Asian nurse's shoulder and standing very close suggests a cultural difference in personal space expectations. The nurse stepping back to establish a distance of 18 to 24 inches is a respectful response to accommodate the patient's cultural norm. It demonstrates cultural competence and understanding. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: the nurse's need to maintain a professional role rather than a social role - This choice does not address the cultural aspect of personal space and assumes the nurse's response is solely professional. B: a patient's attempt to keep the nurse's attention - This choice does not consider the cultural factor influencing the patient's behavior. C: a nurse's need to establish a more appropriate location for conversation - This choice does not acknowledge the cultural difference in personal space as the primary reason for the nurse

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To assist the client in achieving and maintaining optimal health. The main purpose of the client-nurse relationship is to promote the client's health and well-being. The nurse's role is to support the client in achieving their health goals and maintaining good health. This goes beyond just providing care during a specific procedure like a breast biopsy. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because while they may be components of the client-nurse relationship, they do not encompass the main purpose of promoting optimal health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. This response acknowledges the patient's emotions, offers support, and provides an opportunity for the patient to express their feelings. Offering a tissue shows empathy and readiness to listen. Sitting with the patient shows availability and willingness to engage further. This response validates the patient's emotions and fosters a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship. Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's emotions and focuses on the surgeon rather than the patient. Choice B is incorrect as it ignores the patient's emotional distress and focuses on a non-essential issue. Choice C is incorrect as it invalidates the patient's feelings and suggests avoidance rather than addressing the emotions directly.