Chapter 24 Communication Fundamentals of Nursing 11th Edition (Potter & Perry) 50 NCLEX-Style Exam Questions with Detailed Rationales

1. Which type of communication is most effective for conveying empathy and establishing trust with a patient? A) Verbal communication B) Written communication C) Nonverbal communication D) Electronic communication Answer: C Rationale: Nonverbal communication, such as eye contact, facial expressions, and body posture, plays a crucial role in showing empathy and building rapport. ________________________________________ 2. A nurse uses active listening during patient interaction. Which behavior best demonstrates this skill? A) Writing down what the patient says B) Nodding and repeating the patient’s message C) Giving advice before the patient finishes speaking D) Changing the topic frequently Answer: B Rationale: Active listening involves attentiveness and restating or clarifying messages to show understanding and encourage the patient to continue. ________________________________________ 3. Which action by the nurse demonstrates the use of therapeutic communication? A) Telling the patient not to worry B) Sitting at eye level and asking open-ended questions C) Giving personal opinions to the patient D) Minimizing the patient’s concerns Answer: B Rationale: Therapeutic communication involves active listening, empathy, and open-ended questions to encourage expression without judgment. ________________________________________ 4. A patient states, “I feel so hopeless.” What is the nurse’s best response? A) “Everything will be fine.” B) “You shouldn’t feel that way.” C) “Tell me more about what’s making you feel this way.” D) “Let’s focus on the positive.” Answer: C Rationale: Encouraging elaboration helps the patient express feelings and allows the nurse to assess the situation empathetically and therapeutically. ________________________________________ 5. Which communication technique is most appropriate during the orientation phase of the nurse-patient relationship? A) Promoting independence B) Setting mutual goals and boundaries C) Evaluating goal achievement D) Terminating the relationship Answer: B Rationale: In the orientation phase, the nurse and patient establish trust, clarify roles, and agree on goals and expectations. ________________________________________ 6. A nurse uses silence while communicating with a patient. What is the purpose of this technique? A) To express disapproval B) To allow the patient time to think or reflect C) To reduce nurse workload D) To end the conversation Answer: B Rationale: Silence can encourage the patient to reflect and continue expressing feelings at their own pace. ________________________________________ 7. Which factor most affects the clarity of verbal communication between a nurse and a patient? A) Tone of voice B) Use of electronic devices C) Nurse’s posture D) Touch Answer: A Rationale: Tone of voice significantly influences how verbal messages are perceived. It can convey warmth, urgency, or disapproval. ________________________________________ 8. A nurse is caring for a patient who speaks a different language. What is the most effective strategy for communication? A) Using family members to translate B) Speaking slowly and loudly C) Using professional interpreters D) Writing instructions in English Answer: C Rationale: Professional interpreters ensure accurate, confidential, and culturally appropriate communication, which is essential for safe care. ________________________________________ 9. Which communication behavior is nontherapeutic? A) Offering silence B) Paraphrasing patient statements C) Asking “Why did you do that?” D) Reflecting feelings Answer: C Rationale: “Why” questions can seem accusatory and often provoke defensiveness, hindering open communication. ________________________________________ 10. What is the best nursing response when a patient with aphasia tries to express a need? A) Ignore the attempt and complete care B) Ask only yes-or-no questions C) Use visual aids and allow time for responses D) Speak rapidly to stimulate understanding Answer: C Rationale: Visual aids and patience help support communication for patients with speech deficits like aphasia. ________________________________________ 11. Which behavior indicates that a nurse is using effective interpersonal communication? A) Multitasking while the patient speaks B) Making eye contact and listening attentively C) Looking at the computer while talking D) Finishing the patient’s sentences Answer: B Rationale: Attentive listening, maintaining eye contact, and being present are all key elements of effective interpersonal communication. ________________________________________ 12. A patient states, “I’m afraid of what the doctor will say.” What is the most therapeutic response? A) “Let’s not think about that right now.” B) “I’m sure everything will be fine.” C) “You seem worried—do you want to talk about it?” D) “You should focus on getting better.” Answer: C Rationale: Acknowledging and encouraging expression of feelings fosters trust and supports emotional well-being. ________________________________________ 13. In which situation is touch likely to be considered inappropriate communication? A) Comforting a grieving patient B) Reassuring a pediatric patient with a gentle pat C) Touching a patient from a culture where touch is restricted D) Taking a pulse on the radial artery Answer: C Rationale: Cultural sensitivity is essential. In some cultures, touch may be restricted or considered inappropriate. ________________________________________ 14. What is the primary goal of therapeutic communication? A) To educate the patient B) To meet the nurse’s goals C) To establish a trusting relationship D) To share personal experiences Answer: C Rationale: The foundation of therapeutic communication is to build trust and support emotional and physical healing. ________________________________________ 15. Which documentation entry best reflects effective communication? A) “Patient doing fine.” B) “No complaints noted.” C) “Patient states pain is 7/10, requests medication.” D) “Seems better today.” Answer: C Rationale: This entry is objective, specific, and includes the patient’s words and nurse observations, promoting clarity and accuracy.