NCLEX-PN Test #17 1

Question 1

A patient who was recently diagnosed with cancer says, 'I don't know why I should bother with treatment. I'm going to die anyway.' Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?

Accepted Answer

'It sounds like you're feeling hopeless about your diagnosis. Tell me more about what you're thinking.'

Answer

'You shouldn't think that way — many people beat cancer.'

Answer

'I understand how you feel. My aunt had cancer too.'

Answer

'You need to stay positive. A negative attitude won't help your recovery.'

Question 2

A nurse asks a patient, 'How are you feeling today?' The patient does not respond verbally but looks away and sighs deeply. What is the nurse's best action?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the nonverbal cues: 'You seem troubled — would you like to talk?'

Answer

Repeat the question more loudly in case the patient did not hear

Answer

Document that the patient refused to communicate

Answer

Leave the room to give the patient privacy

Question 3

A nurse is performing patient teaching about a new insulin regimen. The patient frequently says 'Yes, I understand.' Which action by the nurse best evaluates comprehension?

Accepted Answer

Ask the patient to demonstrate the injection technique and explain the process

Answer

Accept the patient's verbal confirmation and document teaching done

Answer

Provide written handouts and ask the patient to read them

Answer

Repeat the instructions in simpler language

Question 4

A nurse caring for a patient who is crying and upset begins by saying, 'Don't worry — everything will be fine.' Which communication error has occurred?

Accepted Answer

Offering false reassurance

Answer

Using medical jargon

Answer

Asking a leading question

Answer

Failing to maintain eye contact

Question 5

A nurse is working with a patient who speaks limited English. Which approach is most appropriate for effective communication?

Accepted Answer

Request a trained medical interpreter for all significant communications

Answer

Speak loudly and slowly so the patient can understand

Answer

Ask the patient's family member to interpret all clinical information

Answer

Use gestures only, since verbal communication may cause confusion

Question 6

A patient with a new amputation tells the nurse, 'I just want to be left alone.' What is the nurse's best therapeutic response?

Accepted Answer

'I understand you need space. I'll be back in 10 minutes to check on you.'

Answer

Respect the patient's request completely and check back at end of shift

Answer

'You really need to talk to someone — shall I call the chaplain?'

Answer

'That is not an option — you need your scheduled care right now.'