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

Reflecting the patient's emotions and using an open-ended statement invites the patient to express their feelings more fully — a core therapeutic communication technique. Telling the patient not to think a certain way is dismissive. Sharing a personal story shifts focus from the patient. Demanding positivity minimizes the patient's distress.

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

Acknowledging nonverbal communication and gently offering an opportunity to talk demonstrates empathy and respects the patient's cues. Looking away and sighing deeply may indicate distress, sadness, or reluctance to communicate that deserves attention, not avoidance.

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

The 'teach-back' method — asking the patient to demonstrate a skill or explain the information in their own words — is the gold standard for evaluating health teaching comprehension. Verbal 'yes' responses do not confirm understanding.

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

Saying 'everything will be fine' without knowing the outcome is false reassurance — a non-therapeutic communication technique that dismisses the patient's legitimate concerns and can damage trust. The nurse should instead acknowledge the patient's feelings and explore their concerns.

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

A trained medical interpreter must be used for significant clinical communications to ensure accuracy and protect patient confidentiality. Family members may omit, misinterpret, or alter information, especially sensitive findings. Speaking loudly does not aid comprehension for language barriers.

NCLEX Practice Test

NCLEX Practice Test

NCLEX-PN Test #17 1