Principles of Effective Communication

1. During her morning shift, the LPN meets Mr. Lavoie, 68 years old, who expresses anxiety about his upcoming surgery. He says he hasn’t slept and feels scared about “not waking up.” The LPN sits next to him, listens carefully, and replies, “It sounds like you’re worried about the outcome of your surgery.” Which communication technique did the LPN demonstrate? *

Giving advice

Reflecting and active listening

Changing the subject to reduce stress

Providing false reassurance

2. While administering medications, the LPN asks Ms. Gauthier how she feels about her new antidepressant. The patient responds, “I don’t think it’s helping me.” The LPN follows up by saying, “Can you tell me what makes you feel that way?” The nurse’s response demonstrates which therapeutic communication skill? *

Clarification

Confrontation

Distraction

Interpretation

3. In the rehabilitation unit, the LPN assists Mr. Gagnon, a patient with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. She smiles, speaks gently, and maintains eye contact while helping him dress. The LPN’s behavior primarily helps to: *

Reinforce authority

Test cognitive ability

Increase dependence

Establish trust and reassurance

4. During evening rounds, Mr. Bernard begins crying after learning that his cancer has progressed. The LPN stays with him in silence, maintaining a calm presence without interrupting. Why is the use of silence appropriate in this situation? *

It avoids discussing sensitive topics

It shows that the nurse is uncomfortable

It allows the patient time to express feelings and process emotions

It encourages the patient to change the subject

5. After several weeks of care, a patient tells the LPN, “You’re the only one I can talk to. Can I have your phone number when I leave?” What is the best nursing response? *

“I really care about you, so yes, you can contact me after discharge.”

“I’m not allowed to share personal information, but I’ll make sure your follow-up care is arranged.”

“Let’s talk about that another time.”

“That’s not important right now; let’s focus on your medication.”

6. A patient says, “I’m so tired of feeling weak and sick all the time.” The LPN responds, “It must be exhausting to live with that every day.” The LPN’s response demonstrates: *

Sympathy

Minimization

Avoidance

Empathy

7. During her shift, the LPN enters Mr. Caron’s room. He angrily shouts that his pain medication is always late. The LPN calmly says, “I can see that you’re upset. Let’s talk about how we can make sure you get relief sooner.” Why is this response therapeutic? *

It validates the patient’s feelings and promotes collaboration

It avoids conflict by ignoring the issues

It asserts the nurse’s authority

It delays addressing the concern

8. During handoff, an LPN realizes that another nurse misunderstood a physician’s order for insulin dosage. What should the LPN do first? *

Wait until after the shift to verify

Assume the other nurse read the order correctly

Wait until after the shift to verify

Clarify the order immediately before administration

9. After teaching a patient how to administer insulin, the LPN documents: “Patient educated on insulin administration technique and demonstrated correct use.” Why is this documentation important? *

It replaces the need for verbal handoff

It is only required for billing

It ensures continuity of care and provides legal proof of education

It serves as a personal reminder for the nurse