Test 4 - Communication From Fundamentals Of Success By Nugent And Vitale
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What is being communicated when the nurse leans forward during a patient interview?
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Interest
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Anxiety
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Aggression
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Positive self-esteem
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Test 4 from 'Fundamentals of Success' by Nugent and Vitale focuses on communication skills in nursing. It assesses the use of open-ended questions, reflective techniques, and appropriate responses in therapeutic settings, essential for patient outcomes.
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- 2.
An older adult in a nursing home was talking about her early life as a young woman and said, "I had no choice in life. I was expected that I was to get married and be a stay-at-home wife and mother." What is the best response by the nurse?
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Why did you not explain to your parents how you felt? Maybe they would have understood
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You feel that there were things you would have liked to have had the opportunity to do?
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Times are different. Thank goodness women have so many more choices today.
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I could understand how frustrating that could be. I would have just rebelled.
Correct Answer
A. You feel that there were things you would have liked to have had the opportunity to do?Explanation
a) This is judgmental or disapproving statement and is not constructive. The patient cannot change the past. In addition, "why" questions should be avoided because they can be interpreted as accusations, which can cause resentment and mistrust.
b) The therapeutic open-ended statement gently seeks clarification. It gives the lead to the patient to share whatever thoughts and feelings that the patient may wish to express. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This focuses attention away from the patient's needs and is not therapeutic.
d) The first half of the statement reflects the patient's feelings of frustration, which is appropriate. However, the second half of the statement is judgmental and imposes the nurse's standards on the patient, which is not therapeutic.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A patient who is NPO preparing for a bronchoscopy says, "I'm worried about the test and I can't even have a drink of water." What is the best response by the nurse?
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Let us talk about your concern regarding the test
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I'll see if the doctor will let you have some ice chips
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The doctor will review the results of the test as soon as possible
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As soon as the test is over I'll get you whatever you like to drink
Correct Answer
A. Let us talk about your concern regarding the testExplanation
a) This response encourages the patient to explore concerns. Verbalization of concerns, validation of feelings, and patient teaching may help reduce anxiety (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This intervention bypasses data collection. In addition, ice chips are composed of water, which is contraindicated before and after a bronchoscopy because of the risk for aspiration.
c) This response ignores both of the patient's concerns and addresses a completely different issue.
d) Fluid and food are not permitted after a bronchoscopy until the gag reflex returns.Rate this question:
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- 4.
When collecting data for an admission nursing history, which would be best to open the discussion?
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What brought you to the hospital?
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Would it help to discuss your feelings?
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We don't need to talk unless you want to
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Perhaps you would like to talk about why you are here?
Correct Answer
A. What brought you to the hospital?Explanation
a) This open-ended statement invites the patient to communicate while focusing on the reason for seeking health care. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This direct question can be answered with a yes or no response.
c) This statement may discourage communication. Emphasis should be placed on promoting communication to collect important data.
d) The desire to talk and the need to talk are different issues. It is helpful if health care providers collect as much significant data as possible.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Patient says: "My wife is going to be very upset that my prostate surgery probably is going to leave me impotent." What is the best response by the nurse?
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"I am sure your wife will be willing to make this sacrifice in exchange for your well being"
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"The doctors are getting great results with nerve sparing surgery today"
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"Your wife may not put as much emphasis on sex as you think"
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"Let's talk about how you feel about this surgery"
Correct Answer
A. "Let's talk about how you feel about this surgery"Explanation
a) This response is false reassurance. Only the wife can make this statement.
b) Although a true statement, this response negates the patient's concerns and cuts off communication.
c) This may or may not be a true statement. Only the wife can make this statement
d) The patient may be using projection to cope with the potential for impotence. This response reflects that it is acceptable to talk about sexuality and invites the patient to verbalize concerns. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 6.
A patient is being admitted to the ER with chest pain. When asked about next of kin the patient says: "Don't bother calling my daughter, she is always too busy." What would be the best response of the nurse?"
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She might be upset if you don't call her
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What does your daughter do that makes her so busy?
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Is there someone else that you would like me to call for you?
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I can't imagine that your daughter wouldn't want to know that you are sick
Correct Answer
A. Is there someone else that you would like me to call for you?Explanation
a) This response will put the patient on the defensive and jeopardize the nurse-patient relationship.
b) This response will require the patient to rationalize the daughter's behavior and focuses on the information that is not significant at this time.
c) This lets the patient know that the message has been heard and moves forward to meet the need to notify a significant other of the patient's situation.
d) This provides false reassurance. Only the daughter can convey this message.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A confused patient becomes upset. What is the best action by the nurse?
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Speak louder with a lower pitch to the voice
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Use touch to communicate caring and concern
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Talk to the patient in a way that is simple and direct
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Administer medication to minimize the patient's anxiety
Correct Answer
A. Talk to the patient in a way that is simple and directExplanation
a) A confused patient does not necessarily have hearing problems. This approach is appropriate for some people with a hearing impairment
b) Confused person might interpret touch as an aggressive act and respond by being frightened or agitated.
c) Simple direct statement are messages that require minimal effort and time to decode, resulting in better understanding by the confused patient. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Medication is last resort. Nursing interventions can calm an upset confused patient.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which is the best intervention for a patient who is having problems with speaking?
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Limit the number of visitors at one time
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Use visual cues when communicating
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Correct errors as they occur gently
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Allow adequate time to respond
Correct Answer
A. Allow adequate time to respondExplanation
a) This is not necessarily helpful for a patient who is having difficulty communicating a message. This is advisable when a patient is having difficulty receiving a message, not sending a message.
b) This will not improve a patient's ability to speak. This is advisable when a patient is having difficulty receiving, not sending a message
c) This is demeaning, and may promote a low self-esteem
d) This intervention demonstrates respect and supports the patient's self-esteem. Patients who have difficulty formulating and communicating a message should be afforded ample time to complete the task without being rushed. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 9.
The stage of an interview that establishes the relationship between the nurse and the patient is the:
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Opening stage
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Working stage
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Surrogate stage
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Examining stage
Correct Answer
A. Opening stageExplanation
a) The purposes of the opening stage of an interview are to establish rapport and orient the interviewee. A relationship is established through a process of creating goodwill and trust. The orientation focuses on explaining the purpose and nature of the interview and what is expected of the patient. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Not purpose of the working stage. In working stage, also called the body stage, of an interview patients communicate how they think, feel, know, and perceive in response to questions by the nurse.
c) There is no stage called the surrogate stage in an interview. Hildegard Peplau identified six roles that
d)Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which interviewing technique is used primarily in a focused interview?
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Probing
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Clarification
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Direct questions
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Paraphrasing statements
Correct Answer
A. Direct questionsExplanation
a) Probing questions violate the patient's privacy, may cut off communication, and are inappropriate even in a focused interview. Probing interviewing occurs when the nurse persistently attempts to obtain information even after the patient indicates an unwillingness to discuss the topic or pursues information out of curiosity, rather than because the information is significant.
b) Although clarification may be used during a focused interview to understand what the patient is saying, it is not the primary technique utilized for seeking specific information.
c) A Focused interview explores a particular topic or obtains specific information. Direct questions meet these objectives and avoid extraneous information. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Paraphrasing may be used during a focused interview to redirect ideas back to the patient so that the patient can verify that the nurse received the message accurately or to allow the patient to hear what was said. However, it is not a technique that obtains specific information quickly.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The patient says, "I am really nervous about having a spinal tap tomorrow." The best response by the nurse would be:
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I'll ask the doctor for a little medication to help you relax
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It's OK to be nervous. I don't ever remember anyone who wasn't
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Patients who have had a spinal tap say it is not that uncomfortable
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The doctor is excellent and is very careful when spinal taps are done.
Correct Answer
A. It's OK to be nervous. I don't ever remember anyone who wasn'tExplanation
a) This statement avoids the patient's feelings and fails to respond to the patient's need to talk about concerns. It cuts off communication
b) This statement is therapeutic. It recognizes the patient's feelings, give the patient the permission to feel nervous, and reassures the patient that one's behavior is not unusual. This statement sets the groundwork for the next question, such as, "Let's talk a little bit about the spinal tap and the concerns you may have." (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This is a generalization that minimizes the patient's concern and should be avoided
d) This is false reassurance, which discourages discussion of feelings and should be avoidedRate this question:
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- 12.
The most important concept that nurses must recognize to make accurate assessments is that nonverbal behavior:
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Controlled by conscious mind
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Carries less weight than what the patient says
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Does not have the same meaning for everyone
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Is generally a poor reflection of what the patient is feeling
Correct Answer
A. Does not have the same meaning for everyoneExplanation
a) Nonverbal behavior is controlled more by the unconscious than by the conscious mind.
b) Nonverbal behavior carries more, not less weight than verbal interactions because nonverbal behavior is influenced by the unconscious.
c) Transculturally, nonverbal communication varies widely. For example, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, and touch may reflect opposite messages among cultures and among individuals within a culture. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 13.
A patient states, "Do you think I could have cancer?" The nurse responds, "What did the doctor tell you?" What interviewing approach did the nurse use?
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Paraphrasing
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Confrontation
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Reflective technique
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Open-ended question
Correct Answer
A. Open-ended questionExplanation
This is not paraphrasing (restating patient's basic message), not confrontation (a challenging statement that does not consider feelings) and not reflective technique (referring back to the basic feelings). It is an open-ended statement that invites the patient to elaborate on the expressed thoughts with more than a one or two word response.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Reflective techniques focuses on:
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Feelings
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Content themes
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Clarification of information
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Summarization of the topics discussed
Correct Answer
A. FeelingsExplanation
a) Reflective technique requires active listening to identify the underlying emotional concerns or feelings contained in patient's messages. These feelings are then referred back to patients to promote a clearer understanding of what they have said. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Content themes are referred back to patients through paraphrasing, which is a restatement of what was said in similar words.
c) When seeking clarification the nurse can confess confusion, restate the message or ask the patient to elaborate in attempt to make the patient's message more understood.
d) Summarization reviews the significant points of discussion to reiterate or clarify informationRate this question:
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- 15.
What is the best response when a patient says, "I have something important to tell you but you have to promise me that you will not tell anyone."
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Anything you tell me I will share with the health team because we are here to help you
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Something is clearly upsetting you for you to place such a restriction on our interaction.
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Whatever you tell me is between us because your personal information is confidential.
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You will have to trust me that I will maintain your confidentiality as long as it will not harm yourself or others.
Correct Answer
A. You will have to trust me that I will maintain your confidentiality as long as it will not harm yourself or others.Explanation
a) This statement is a barrier to communication. Most information communicated by the patient can remain confidential.
b) The effective open-ended statement invites the patient to continue talking; however, it does not set up the parameters of the therapeutic relationship.
c) Personal information remains confidential even if significant other members of the health team are aware of the information. This is known as the circle of confidentiality.
d) This statement is an open, honest response and sets up the parameters of the therapeutic relationship. The nurse must be credible, that is trustworthy, reliable, caring, supportive, and honest. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 16.
What best describes the proverb, What you do speaks so loudly I cannot hear what you say?
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Nonverbal messages are often more meaningful than words
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Hearing ability is an important factor in the communication process
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Listening to what people say requires attention to what is being said
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When people talk too loudly it is hard to understand what is being said
Correct Answer
A. Nonverbal messages are often more meaningful than wordsExplanation
a) Nonverbal communication (body language) conveys messages without words and is under less conscious control than verbal statements. When a person's words and behavior are incongruent, nonverbal behavior most likely reflects the person's true feelings. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Although hearing, one aspect of decoding message, is an important factor in communication process, it is unrelated to the stated proverb,.
c) Although this true statement reflects active listening, it is unrelated to the stated proverb.
d) The statement is unrelated to the state proverb. The volume of the message may or may not influence understanding of the message. The volume of a message occurs on the physiologic level, while understanding a message occurs on the cognitive level.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The goals of communication should depend on the:
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Environment in which communication takes place
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Role of the nurse in the particular clinical setting
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Concerns of the patient and family members
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Skill level of the nurse in the situation
Correct Answer
A. Concerns of the patient and family membersExplanation
a) Although the environment may enhance or be a barrier to communication, it does not determine the goals of communication.
b) The role of a nurse in a particular setting does not dictate the goals of communication.
c) The patient and significant others and their needs are always the focus of nursing interventions including the goals of communication. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Although the interviewing skills of the nurse may determine the effectiveness of communication, it does not set the goals of communication.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which level of space around a patient is being entered when changing a patient's dressing over a wound?
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Personal
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Intimate
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Social
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Public
Correct Answer
A. IntimateExplanation
a) "Laying on of hands does not occur with personal distance. Personal space (1 1/2 to 4 feet) is effective for communicating with another. It is close enough to imply caring and is not extended to the distance that implies lack of involvement.
b) Physically caring for the patient involves inspection and touch that invades the instinctual, protective distance immediately surrounding an individual. Intimate space (physical contact to 1 1/2 feet) is characterized by body contact, visual exposure, and low-volume interactions (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) Invasive touching does not occur with social distance. Social space (4 to 12 feet) is effective for more formal interactions or group conversations.
d) Touching is not used with public distance. Public space (12 feet and beyond) is effective for communicating with groups or the community. Individuality is lost.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A Patient with terminal cancer tells the nurse: "I have been fairly religious, but sometimes I wonder if the things I did were acceptable to God." The best response would be:
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Not knowing what the future brings can be scary
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God will appreciate that you went to Church
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If you were good, you have nothing to fear
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In life, all we have to do is try to be good
Correct Answer
A. Not knowing what the future brings can be scaryExplanation
a) Recognizes the patient's feelings. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Denies patient's feelings and gives false reassurance
c) Denies patient's feelings
d) Denies patient's feelings and gives false reassurance.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which is the most important action when communicating with a person who is hearing-impaired?
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Raise the volume of your voice and speak directly towards the patient's good ear
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Lower the pitch of your voice when speaking with the patient
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Exaggerate lip movements when speaking with the patient
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Stand directly in front of the patient when speaking
Correct Answer
A. Stand directly in front of the patient when speakingExplanation
a) This is demeaning and may be viewed by the patient as aggressive behavior
b) This may or may not be effective. Although this may be helpful with the older adult whose hearing loss typically involves high-pitched sounds first, there is no reference to this patient's age or type of hearing loss.
c) This may be demeaning and ineffective because the patient may not be able to read lips
d) This focuses the patient's attention on the nurse. A hearing impaired receiver must be aware that a message is being sent before the message can be received and decoded. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 21.
A mother whose young daughter has died of leukemia is crying and is unable to talk about her feelings. What is the best response by the nurse?
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She put up the good fight but now she is out of pain an in heaven
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I feel so sad. It must be hard to deal with such a precious loss.
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Everyone will remember her because she was so cute. She was one of our favorites
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As hard as this is, it is probably for the best because she was in a lot of pain
Correct Answer
A. I feel so sad. It must be hard to deal with such a precious loss.Explanation
a) Not therapeutic. Focuses on nurse rather than patient.
b) First part minimizes loss. Second part focuses on pain experience by child, which experiences mother's grief
c) Response minimizes loss and focuses on the pain experienced by child, which may increase mother's grief.
d) First sentence communicates empathy. Second sentence focuses on feelings surrounding loss and provides opportunity for the patient to verbalize. Both of these are therapeutic (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which action best reflects the concept of therapeutic communication?
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Using interview skills to discuss the patient's concerns
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Letting the patient control the focus of conversation
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Setting time aside to interact with the patient
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Agreeing with a patient's statements
Correct Answer
A. Using interview skills to discuss the patient's concernsExplanation
a) Therapeutic communication is patient-centered and goal-directed. It facilitates the exploration of the patient's thoughts and feelings and helps to establish a constructive relationship between the nurse and patient. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Although this is often done, there are times when the patient may ramble and need to be refocused by the nurse.
c) Although this is often done, therapeutic communication can occur at any time, such as when providing physical hygiene or performing a procedure.
d) Although this is often done, there are many times when this response would be inappropriate.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The patient is upset, crying and mentions something about her job that he nurse cannot understand. The nurse's best response would be:
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It's natural to be worried about your job
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Your job must be very important to you
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Calm down so that I can understand what you are saying
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I'm not quite sure I heard what you were saying about your work
Correct Answer
A. I'm not quite sure I heard what you were saying about your workExplanation
a) This may or may not be an accurate assumption.
b) This makes an assumption that may be erroneous
c) This patronizing response treats the patient in a condescending manner. The patient cannot calm down.
d) This response requests additional information in an attempt to clarify an unclear communication (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 24.
A patient suffering from cirrhosis says: "I really do not believe that my drinking a couple of beers a day has anything to do with my liver problems". As a nurse, what would be your best response?
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You find it hard to believe that beer can damage the liver?
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How long have you been drinking a couple of beers a day?
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You may believe that beer is not harmful but research shows that it is just as bad for you as hard liquor.
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Are you aware that each beer is equivalent to one shot of liquor so it's just as damaging to the liver as hard liquor?
Correct Answer
A. You find it hard to believe that beer can damage the liver?Explanation
a) This is an example of paraphrasing. It repeats contents in the patient's message in similar words or provide feedback to let the patient know whether the message was understood and to prompt further communication (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This does not address the content or emotional theme of the patient. In addition, this probing question may be a barrier to communication.
c) This assertive, confronting, judgmental response will put the patient on the defensive and cut off communication.
d) This response is condescending, judgmental, and confrontational, which will put the patient on the defensive and inhibit further communicationRate this question:
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- 25.
A patient appears agitated and says: "I am not sure I want to go through this surgery." Which would be the best response by the nurse to focus on feelings?
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You don't want to have surgery?
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You seem upset about this surgery.
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I'll call the doctor to come talk to you
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Are you saying that you want to postpone the surgery?
Correct Answer
A. You seem upset about this surgery.Explanation
a) This is an example of paraphrasing. It may be perceived as a challenging statement that may put the patient on the defensive.
b) This open-ended question reflects the patient's feelings and invites the patient to talk about concerns in more detail (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This statement abdicates responsibility, delays a discussion about the patient's feelings, and is inappropriate.
d) This is not the best response of the options offered. Although it may at first appear appropriate because it seeks clarification, it puts words into the patient's mouth and unnecessarily escalates the situation by challenging the patient.Rate this question:
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- 26.
When providing nursing care, humor should be used to:
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Diminish feelings of anger
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Refocus the patient's attention
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Maintain a balanced perspective
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Delay dealing with the inevitable
Correct Answer
A. Maintain a balanced perspectiveExplanation
a) Humor used inappropriately can cause anger to be increased, suppressed or repressed. Anger should be safely expressed.
b) The focus should be on patient's concern
c) Humor is an interpersonal tool and a healing strategy. It releases physical and psychic energy, enhances well-being, reduces anxiety, increases pain tolerance, and places experiences within the context of life (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Coping strategies should not be delayed because delay increases stress and anxiety and prolongs the process.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A factor that is unique to a helping relationship is that it is:
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Patient assumes the dominant role
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Equal sharing of information
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Specific to a person and guided by a purpose
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Based on the needs of both participants
Correct Answer
A. Specific to a person and guided by a purposeExplanation
a) There are times that the nurse must assume a dominant role; examples include when the patient is unconscious , out of touch with reality, in a crisis, or experiencing panic.
b) IN a therapeutic relationship, the focus is on the patient, not the nurse.
c) The helping relationship (interpersonal relationship, therapeutic relationship) is a personal, client-focused, goal oriented process whereby the nurse assists a person to problem solve and meet needs. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) The purpose of a therapeutic relationship is to focus on and meet the needs of the patient, not the nurse.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A male adolescent who had a leg amputated because of trauma says, "No one will ever choose to love a person with one leg." What is the best response by the nurse?
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You are a good looking young man and you will have no trouble meeting someone who cares.
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You may feel that way now, but you will feel differently as time passes
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Do you feel that no one will marry you because you have one leg?
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How do you see your situation at this point?
Correct Answer
A. Do you feel that no one will marry you because you have one leg?Explanation
a) Negates patient's concerns. Patient needs to focus on "negative" before positive. Only the future will tell if patient meets someone who cares
b) False reassurance. No way can the nurse ensure that his belief will change.
c) Example of paraphrasing, which restates the patient's message in similar words. It promotes communication (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Unnecessary. Patient already stated his point of view.Rate this question:
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- 29.
An agitated patient says: I am not sure if I want this surgery". Which response is considered "paraphrasing"?
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Are you saying that you want to postpone the surgery?
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You are undecided about having this surgery?
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You seem upset about this surgery.
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Tell me more about your concerns.
Correct Answer
A. You are undecided about having this surgery?Explanation
a) This is an inference based on inadequate data.
b) This is an example of paraphrasing, which restates the content of the patient's message in similar words. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This is an example of reflective technique, which focuses on feelings
d) This is an example of an open-ended statement, which invites the patient to elaborate on the stated concernRate this question:
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- 30.
What is the response by the nurse when the patient's husband says, "I just don't know what to say to my wife if she asks how I feel about her breast cancer."
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How do you feel about your wife's diagnosis?
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This is a difficult topic. Would you like to talk about it?
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She needs you to be as caring and supportive as you can possibly be.
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Men don't always understand what women are going through. Ask her about how she feels.
Correct Answer
A. This is a difficult topic. Would you like to talk about it?Explanation
a) This question is too direct. The husband may not be in touch with his feelings and will be unable to answer the question.
b) This response acknowledges that the patient is in a dilemma and it offers an opportunity to explore the situation. Validation and an invitation to talk provide emotional support. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This response focuses on the patient's needs and ignores the husband's concerns
d) This response is condescending and focuses on the patient's, not the husband's needsRate this question:
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- 31.
Patient: "I do not know if I can make it through this surgery." Which response by the nurse could block further communication by the patient?
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You sound scared
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You think you will die
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Surgery can be frightening
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Everything will be alright
Correct Answer
A. Everything will be alrightExplanation
a) This example is reflective technique identifies feelings, which promotes communication.
b) This example of paraphrasing restates the content of the patient's message, which promotes communication
c) This example of reflective technique focuses on feelings, which promotes communication
d) This response is FALSE REASSURANCE. It denies the patient's concerns about survival and does not invite the patient to elaborate. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 32.
Patient: "I can't believe that I couldn't even eat half of my breakfast." Which statement of the nurse uses reflection?
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Would it help to talk about your inability to eat?
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What part of you breakfast were you able to eat?
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How long have you been unable to eat most of your breakfast?
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You seem surprised that you were unable to eat all your breakfast
Correct Answer
A. You seem surprised that you were unable to eat all your breakfastExplanation
a) The direct question can be answered with a YES or NO response
b) The direct question elicits a minimal amount of information about only one aspect of eating.
c) This direct question focuses on just one aspect of the problem, duration.
d) This question is an example of reflective technique because it focuses on the feeling of surprise. (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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- 33.
The patient is exhibiting anxious behavior and states, "I just found out that I have cancer everywhere and I don't have very long to live. My life is over." What is the best response of the nurse?
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Shall I call your wife? It might be good if she was here right now.
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What might be the best way to approach this terrible news?
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That is so sad. You must feel like crying.
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It sounds like you feel hopeless
Correct Answer
A. It sounds like you feel hopelessExplanation
a) Response abdicates nurse responsibility to explore patient's concerns immediately. It could be an erroneous assumption
b) Patient is in shock and disbelief mode of coping and would not be able to explore approaches to coping. Using the words "terrible news" may increase anxiety and hopelessness.
c) This ignores the patient's feelings and imposes the nurse's feelings into the situation.
d) Example of reflective technique. When no solutions to a problem are evident, a person becomes hopeless (despair, despondent) CORRECT ANSWER.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Patient: "I think I am dying." Nurse: "You feel as though you are dying?" What interviewing approach did the nurse use?
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Focusing
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Reflecting
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Validating
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Paraphrasing
Correct Answer
A. ParaphrasingExplanation
a) This is not an example of FOCUSING, which centers on the key elements of the patient's message in an attempt to eliminate vagueness. It keeps a rambling conversation on target to explore the major concern.
b) This is not an example of REFLECTING, which focuses on feelings. The use of the word "feel" does not make the nurse's statement an example of reflection.
c) This is not an example of VALIDATING. Consensual validation, a form of clarification, verifies the meaning of specific words rather than the overall meaning of the message. This ensures that both patient and nurse agree on the meaning of the words used.
d) The nurse's response is an example of paraphrasing because it uses similar words to restate the patient's message. CORRECT ANSWERRate this question:
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- 35.
The most important thing the nurse can do to foster a therapeutic relationship with a patient is to:
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Work on establishing a friendship with the patient
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Use humor to defuse emotionally charged topics of discussion
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Demonstrate respect that is not based on the patient's behavior
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Sympathize with the patient when the patient shares sad feelings.
Correct Answer
A. Demonstrate respect that is not based on the patient's behaviorExplanation
a) The nurse should maintain a professional relationship with the patient. Nurses may be friendly toward but should not establish a friendship with a patient.
b) Humor with emotionally charged issues may be viewed as minimizing concerns or frivolous, and could be a barrier to communication.
c) Emotionally charged topics should be approached with respectful, sincere interactions that are accepting and nonjudgmental, which will promote further verbalizations (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Sympathy denotes pity, which should be avoided. The nurse should empathize, not sympathize, with patient.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Effective therapeutic communication mainly depends on the nurse's ability to:
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Send a verbal message
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Use interviewing skills
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Be assertive when collecting data
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Displays sympathy when communicating
Correct Answer
A. Use interviewing skillsExplanation
a) Communication includes both verbal and nonverbal messages.
b) Communication is facilitated by interviewing techniques that include attitudes, behaviors, and verbal messages. Interviewing skills promote therapeutic communication because they are patient-centered and goal-directed. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) Assertiveness when collecting data may be perceived by the patient as aggression, which is a barrier to communication.
d) A therapeutic relationship should avoid sympathy because it implies pity. The nurse should empathize and not sympathize with patients.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The statement that is most accurate about communication is:
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Communication is inevitable
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Behavior clearly reflects feelings
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The hands are the most expressive parts of the body
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Verbal communication is essential for human relationships
Correct Answer
A. Communication is inevitableExplanation
a) Watzlawick;s theory indicates that all behavior has meaning, people are always behaving, and we cannot stop behaving or communicating; therefore, communication is inevitable. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Behavior may imply, not clearly reflect, feelings. The nurse should obtain verbal feedback from the patient regarding assumptions about behavior.
c) The face, not the hands, is the most expressive part of the body.
d) All communication, not just verbal communication, is essential for human relationships.Rate this question:
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- 38.
An 80-year old agitated patient: "I'm having trouble with my bowels." Which response uses reflection?
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You seem distressed about your bowels.
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You're having trouble with your bowels?
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It's common to have problems with the bowels at your age.
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When did you first notice having trouble with your bowels?
Correct Answer
A. You seem distressed about your bowels.Explanation
a) This response recognizes and reflects back the underlying feeling in the patient's message (reflecting technique). When people are in trouble they usually feel threatened or stressed. (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This restates the patient's comment in similar words and is an example of paraphrasing, not reflection.
c) This negates the patient's concerns and shuts off communication.
d) This is not an example of reflection; it is a direct question that collects specific information
b)Rate this question:
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- 39.
What is the first thing the nurse should do to confirm the meaning of a patient's nonverbal behavior?
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Look for similarity in meaning between the patient's verbal and nonverbal behavior
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Ask family members to help you interpret the patient's behavior
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Validate your inferences by asking the patient direct questions
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Recognize that what the patient says is most important
Correct Answer
A. Look for similarity in meaning between the patient's verbal and nonverbal behaviorExplanation
a) The patient is the primary source of information. When nonverbal communication reinforces the verbal message, the message reflects the true feelings of the patient because nonverbal behavior is under less conscious control than verbal statements (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This abdicates the nurse's responsibility to others and obtains a response that is influenced by emotion and subjectivity.
c) Direct questions are too specific. Open-ended questions or pointing out the incongruence between actions and words are more effective techniques than direct questions in this situation.
d) Nonverbal behaviors, rather than verbal statements, better reflect true feelings. Actions speak louder than words!Rate this question:
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- 40.
The patient is tearful, quiet and withdrawn. The nurse says, "You seem very sad today." What interviewing approach did the nurse use?
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Examining
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Reflecting
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Clarifying
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Orienting
Correct Answer
A. ReflectingExplanation
a) Examining is not an interviewing technique.
b) Reflective technique refers to feelings implied in the content of verbal communication or in exhibited nonverbal behaviors. Patients who are crying, quiet, and withdrawn are often sad. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) This is not an example of clarifying, which is a use of a statement to better understand a message when communication is rambling or garbled.
d) this is not an example of orienting. Reality orientation is a nursing technique used to assist patients in restoring an awareness of what is actual, authentic, or real.Rate this question:
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- 41.
The main purpose of the working phase of a therapeutic relationship is to:
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Establish a formal or informal contract that addresses the patient's problems
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Implement nursing interventions that are designed to achieve expected patient outcomes
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Develop rapport and trust so the patient feels protected and an initial plan can be identified
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Clearly identify the role of the nurse and establish the parameters of the professional relationship
Correct Answer
A. Implement nursing interventions that are designed to achieve expected patient outcomesExplanation
During the working phase of the therapeutic relationship, nursing interventions have a twofold purpose: assisting patients to explore and understand their thoughts and feelings and facilitating and supporting patient decisions and actions.
Formal or informal contracts are established during the introductory phase (orientation) and not in the working phase of a therapeutic relationship
The development of trust is the primary goal of the introductory phase, not working phase, of a therapeutic relationship. Trust is achieved through respect, concern, credibility, and reliability.
The roles of a nurse are established during the introductory phase and not in the working phaseRate this question:
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- 42.
Most important part of the orientation phase of the assessment interview
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Collect data
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Build rapport
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Identify problems
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Establish priorities
Correct Answer
A. Build rapportExplanation
a) The majority of the collection and analysis of data is conducted during the working, not orientation, phase of a therapeutic relationship.
b) The orientation phase (also called the introductory or prehelping phase) of a therapeutic relationship sets the tone for the rest of the relationship. A Rapport develops when the patient recognizes that the nurse is willing and able to help and can be trusted. (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) Problems are identified, explored and dealt with during the working, not orientation, phase of a therapeutic relationship.
d) Priority needs are identified and interventions planned and implemented during the working, not orientation, phase of a therapeutic relationship.Rate this question:
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- 43.
What would be the best question to ask when obtaining an admission history from a patient being admitted to the hospital with a medical diagnosis of diverticulitis?
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Have you ever had any previous episodes of diverticulitis?
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What did you eat the day before you were admitted?
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What led up to your coming to the hospital today?
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When were you diagnosed with diverticulitis?
Correct Answer
A. What led up to your coming to the hospital today?Explanation
a) This is not an immediate priority
b) Too focused and should include dietary intake for the previous day, not the day before
c) Invites the patient to expand on and develop a topic of importance that relates to the current problem. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) Although this historical information eventually may be obtained, it is not the immediate priority.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Therapeutic communications is evaluated as being effective when:
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Verbal and nonverbal communication is congruent
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Interaction is conducted in a professional manner
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Common understanding is achieved
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Thoughts can be put into words
Correct Answer
A. Common understanding is achievedExplanation
a) This just ensures that the message probably reflects the true feelings of the patient.
b) Interactions, even if conducted in a professional manner, may or may not be effective.
c) Understanding is the foundation of therapeutic communication. When the nurse comprehends, appreciates and empathizes with the patient, therapeutic communication is effective. The working phase of the helping relationship can then move forward and is productive. (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) This just ensures that ideas or feelings are communicatedRate this question:
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- 45.
Active listening means:
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Identifying patient's concerns by exploring with "why" questions
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Determining the content and feeling of the patient's message
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Employing silence to encourage the patient to talk
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Using nonverbal skills to display interest
Correct Answer
A. Determining the content and feeling of the patient's messageExplanation
a) "Why" statements are direct questions that tend to put the patient on the defensive and cut off communication.
b) Active listening is the use of all the senses to comprehend and appreciate the patient's verbal and nonverbal thoughts and feelings (CORRECT ANSWER)
c) Silence is passive, not active. Silence allows the patient time for quiet contemplation of what has been discussed.
d) When talking with patients, verbal and nonverbal cues are used to indicate care and concern, which promote communication.Rate this question:
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- 46.
When directing a very confused patient with Alzheimer's disease to eat, what should the nurse say?
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Please eat your meat
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It is important that you eat
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What would you like to eat?
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If you don't eat, you can't have dessert
Correct Answer
A. Please eat your meatExplanation
a) Confused patients more easily understand simple words and sentences (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) This may not be understood by the confused patient.
c) A confused patient may not be able to make a decision
d) This is a threat and should be avoided when talking with patients.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Which is most important when facilitating communication between the nurse and the patient?
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Using interviewing techniques to control the direction of the communication.
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Minimizing energy spent by the patient on negative feelings and concerns
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Ensuring that the patient has an effective way to communicate with staff
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Refocusing to the positive aspects of the patient's situation and progress.
Correct Answer
A. Ensuring that the patient has an effective way to communicate with staffExplanation
a) The patient, not the nurse, should direct the flow of communication.
b) Negative feelings or concerns must be addressed. Both physical and psychic energy are used when coping with stress.
c) Communication between the patient and healthcare providers is essential, particularly for obtaining subjective data and feedback. Speech, pantomime, writing, touch, and picture boards are examples of channels of transmission (CORRECT ANSWER)
d) The focus must be on the patient's present concerns before refocusing to other issues because anxiety increases if immediate concerns are not addressed.Rate this question:
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- 48.
Which interviewing skill is being used when the nurse says, "You mentioned before that you are having a problem with your colostomy?"
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Focusing
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Clarifying
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Paraphrasing
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Acknowledging
Correct Answer
A. FocusingExplanation
a) This example of Focusing helps patient explore a topic of importance. The nurse selects one topic for further discussion from among several topics presented by the patient (CORRECT ANSWER)
b) Not an example of clarifying which lets the patient know that a message was unclear and seeks specific information to make the message clearer.
c) Not an example of paraphrasing which is restating the patient's message in similar words
d) Not an example of acknowledging, which is providing nonjudgmental recognition for a contribution to the conversation, a change in behavior, or an effort by the patient.Rate this question:
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- 49.
A patient comes to the Emergency Room with multiple trauma from a suspected assault by a boyfriend. When the patient seems reluctant to talk with the nurse, an appropriate leading statement would be:
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Did your boyfriend do this to you?
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You really got beat up pretty badly this time
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Would you like to talk about how this happened to you?
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Sometimes people are embarrassed to share information about their situation
Correct Answer
A. Sometimes people are embarrassed to share information about their situationExplanation
a) This probing question attempts to seek information about a topic the patient is unwilling to explore. This direct question may put the patient on the defensive and further shut off communication.
b) This judgmental statement may cut off further communication.
c) This direct question will probably elicit a response of "No" because the patient appears reluctant to talk.
d) This statement identifies a common reaction to an emotionally charged situation. It is an accepting open-ended remark that provides an opportunity for the patient to talk with the nurse (CORRECT ANSWER)Rate this question:
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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 16, 2023 +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Mar 16, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 16, 2013Quiz Created by
Arnoldjr2
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