A patient roughly asks the nurse to bring him some ice cream. An assertive response by the nurse is:
“You are hungry and want a snack. I can do that in 10 minutes when I finish my rounds.”
“Maybe I can get one of the aides to bring you something in a while.”
“Call the nursing station and ask them to have the kitchen bring whatever you want.”
“I understand that you would like some ice cream, but I need you to be more respectful when you ask me for something.”
The Correct Answer is D
D) “I understand that you would like some ice cream, but I need you to be more respectful when you ask me for something.” This is an assertive response because it acknowledges the patient’s request, expresses the nurse’s feelings, and sets a clear boundary for acceptable behavior. Assertiveness is the ability to communicate one’s needs, opinions, and feelings in a respectful and confident manner.
“You are hungry and want a snack. I can do that in 10 minutes when I finish my rounds.” is incorrect. This is a passive response because it does not address the patient’s rudeness or assert the nurse’s rights. Passive communication is the tendency to avoid conflict, suppress one’s feelings, and comply with others’ demands.
“Maybe I can get one of the aides to bring you something in a while.” is incorrect. This is an evasive response because it does not commit to fulfilling the patient’s request or confronting the patient’s attitude. Evasive communication is the tendency to avoid responsibility, give vague answers, and shift blame to others.
“Call the nursing station and ask them to have the kitchen bring whatever you want.” is incorrect. This is an aggressive response because it rejects the patient’s request, shows irritation, and implies that the nurse does not care about the patient’s needs. Aggressive communication is the tendency to dominate, criticize, and blame others.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: “I am sure they are all beef hot dogs. Would you like me to get a substitution from the kitchen?” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows false reassurance, which is a communication technique that involves minimizing or dismissing the other person’s feelings or situation. It also shows assumption, which is a communication barrier that involves making judgments or guesses about what the other person thinks or feels. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound patronizing or condescending. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason: “I don’t understand why that should make a difference.” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows lack of knowledge, which is a communication barrier that involves being unaware or ignorant of the other person’s culture, beliefs, or values. It also shows indifference, which is a communication barrier that involves showing no interest or concern for the other person’s feelings or situation. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound rude or offensive. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice C reason: “So you don’t want anything to eat, then?” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows closed-ended questioning, which is a communication technique that involves asking questions that require a yes or no answer or a specific piece of information. It also shows sarcasm, which is a communication barrier that involves using irony or mockery to hurt or ridicule the other person. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound hostile or aggressive. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D reason: “I respect your dietary preferences. Let me see what else I can offer you.” is the best response by the PN. This response shows respect, which is a value or attitude that involves showing consideration, appreciation, and recognition for the other person as a unique and holistic person. It also shows support, which is a communication technique that involves providing emotional or practical assistance to the other person, and helping them cope with their situation or problem. It respects the client’s dietary preferences, and shows that the PN is caring, helpful, and empathetic. Therefore, this choice is correct.
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct because it shows that the PN is respectful and sensitive to the client’s cognitive impairment. Long explanations can confuse and overwhelm the client, who may have difficulty processing and retaining information.
Choice B reason: This is correct because it shows that the PN is respectful and sensitive to the client’s cognitive impairment. Asking one question at a time can help the client focus and respond more easily, without feeling pressured or frustrated.
Choice C reason: This is correct because it shows that the PN is respectful and sensitive to the client’s cognitive impairment. Using short sentences can help the client understand and remember the message, without being distracted or confused by unnecessary words.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because it shows that the PN is rude and disrespectful to the client’s hearing ability. Talking loudly can make the client feel annoyed or threatened, and may not improve communication if the client has hearing loss. The PN should talk in a normal tone and check for understanding.

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