ISSA Communication & Client Relations 2

Question 1

A client becomes defensive when you suggest reducing their sugar intake. Which communication technique is MOST effective in this situation?

Accepted Answer

Use motivational interviewing to explore their ambivalence without judgment

Answer

Motivational interviewing helps clients resolve ambivalence by exploring their own reasons for change without triggering defensiveness.

Question 2

Which of the following best illustrates the use of open-ended questions in a nutrition consultation?

Accepted Answer

How does your current eating pattern affect how you feel throughout the day?

Answer

Open-ended questions invite detailed, narrative responses and reveal the client's perspective rather than eliciting yes/no answers.

Question 3

A nutritionist notices a client is crossing their arms and avoiding eye contact during a session. The BEST immediate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the nonverbal cues and create space for the client to share concerns

Answer

Recognizing and gently acknowledging nonverbal cues fosters psychological safety and encourages the client to open up.

Question 4

When setting SMART goals with a client, what does the 'A' in SMART most commonly stand for?

Accepted Answer

Achievable

Answer

In the SMART framework, 'A' stands for Achievable (or Attainable), meaning the goal must be realistic given the client's current situation.

Question 5

A client shares personal emotional struggles related to food and body image. The appropriate scope-of-practice response for a nutritionist is to:

Accepted Answer

Listen empathetically and refer the client to a licensed mental health professional

Answer

Nutritionists are not licensed therapists; the appropriate action is compassionate listening followed by a referral to a qualified professional.

(ISSA) International Sports Sciences Association Certified Nutritionist Practice Test