Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication

Questions 53

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Open-Ended Questions in Nursing Communication Questions

Question 1 of 5

Which facial feature, if displayed by the nurse, best conveys warmth?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because relaxed muscles and a concerned expression convey warmth. Relaxed muscles indicate a sense of calm and approachability, while a concerned expression shows empathy and care. Small pupils and a fixed gaze (A) can be perceived as cold or distant. Furrowed brow and wrinkled forehead (B) suggest tension or worry. Pursed lips and a forced smile (C) may come across as insincere. In summary, D is the best choice as it combines physical relaxation with emotional warmth.

Question 2 of 5

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: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it contains a threat ("you'll be sorry") and implies superiority ("you cannot handle emergencies without me"). This response is aggressive as it seeks to manipulate or intimidate the charge nurse. In contrast, choices A, B, and C express concerns or opinions without aggression by simply stating feelings or thoughts without any form of threat or superiority.

Question 3 of 5

A young mother who fractured her leg is sobbing with her face hidden behind her hands. She says to the nurse, "I will not be able to work for at least 2 months. Without my job, I cannot pay my bills or take care of my baby. I am alone and do not have anyone to help me." Which response by the nurse accurately conveys empathy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it acknowledges the patient's specific concerns about taking care of herself and her baby. By reflecting back what the patient has expressed, the nurse shows understanding and empathy. Choice A implies doubt in the patient's perception, B makes an assumption about low self-esteem without evidence, and D does not directly address the patient's immediate worries. Empathy involves actively listening, understanding the patient's emotions, and responding with sensitivity to their unique situation.

Question 4 of 5

The nurse greets a patient who is admitted to the hospital. Which action by the nurse displays warmth and concern?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because using a soft and relaxed tone of voice conveys warmth and concern, creating a welcoming and comforting environment for the patient. This approach helps build rapport and trust. Choice B is incorrect because maintaining a distance of 6 to 8 feet may come off as cold and distant, lacking warmth and concern. Choice C is incorrect because avoiding attentive behaviors can make the patient feel neglected and uncared for, which does not display warmth and concern. Choice D is incorrect because engaging in a verbal exchange without physical contact alone may not be enough to demonstrate genuine warmth and concern towards the patient.

Question 5 of 5

In which situation(s) would it be appropriate for the nurse to communicate with empathy? (Select all that apply)

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a nurse should communicate with empathy when addressing a patient's emotional needs, such as anxiety about body image after a mastectomy. Empathy helps build trust and support patients emotionally. Choices A, C, and D do not involve direct patient care or emotional support, so empathy is not the most appropriate communication style in those situations. A is about a social relationship, C is about professional recognition, and D is about workplace dynamics, which do not require empathy in the same way patient care does.

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