Which actions may block communication between a nurse and patient? Select all that apply:
Crossing arms over the chest during conversation
Providing false reassurance
Asking open-ended questions
Interrupting the patient mid-sentence
Standing near the door and checking the time
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
Communication blockers are verbal, nonverbal, or behavioral actions that hinder therapeutic rapport, reduce trust, and impair patient expression. These include body language like crossed arms, behaviors like checking the time, and verbal habits like interrupting or giving false reassurance. Such actions convey disinterest, judgment, or dismissal. Effective therapeutic communication requires open posture, active listening, and emotional presence. Normal eye contact duration is 3–10 seconds; shorter or absent contact may signal disengagement. Blocking behaviors disrupt this dynamic and compromise care quality.
Rationale for correct answers
A. Crossing arms over the chest is a closed posture that signals defensiveness or disinterest. It creates a physical and emotional barrier, discouraging patient openness.
B. Providing false reassurance minimizes patient concerns and invalidates their emotions. It blocks honest dialogue and undermines trust.
D. Interrupting the patient mid-sentence disrupts their thought process and signals that their input is not valued. It prevents full expression and impairs therapeutic engagement.
E. Standing near the door and checking the time conveys impatience and lack of presence. It signals that the nurse is disengaged or rushed, which blocks meaningful communication.
Rationale for incorrect answers
C. Asking open-ended questions facilitates communication. It encourages patients to elaborate and express themselves freely, enhancing therapeutic interaction rather than blocking it.
Take home points
- Closed posture and rushed behavior signal disinterest and block communication.
- False reassurance and interruptions hinder patient expression.
- Open-ended questions promote therapeutic dialogue.
- Nonverbal cues are as critical as verbal techniques in nursing communication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Therapeutic communication is a goal-directed, purposeful, and structured interaction used by nurses to enhance the well-being of patients. It involves active listening, empathy, and verbal/non-verbal techniques that promote trust and understanding. It is not casual or social; it is intentional and tailored to the patient's psychological, emotional, and physical needs. Effective therapeutic communication improves patient outcomes, reduces anxiety, and fosters cooperation. It is guided by principles of respect, clarity, and confidentiality. Normal speech rate is 125–150 words per minute; hearing loss is not addressed by volume alone but by clarity and context.
Rationale for correct answers
B. Therapeutic communication is defined as purposeful and goal-oriented interaction aimed at improving the patient’s health and emotional well-being. The phrase “promote the patient’s well-being” directly reflects the scientific definition of therapeutic communication, which includes empathy, active listening, and patient-centered dialogue.
Rationale for incorrect answers
A. Casual conversation to establish social bonds is considered social communication, not therapeutic. While rapport is important, therapeutic communication must be intentional and focused on health-related goals. Casual talk lacks structure and does not address clinical objectives.
C. Written instructions alone do not constitute therapeutic communication. This approach lacks the interactive, empathetic, and adaptive elements required. Therapeutic communication involves verbal and non-verbal cues, clarification, and feedback, which written instructions cannot provide.
D. Speaking slowly and loudly may help patients with hearing impairment but does not define therapeutic communication. Volume and pace are only components of effective delivery. Therapeutic communication requires empathy, active listening, and goal-oriented dialogue, not just auditory adjustments.
Take home points
- Therapeutic communication is structured, purposeful, and patient-centered.
- It differs from social communication by focusing on clinical goals.
- Written instructions alone are insufficient for therapeutic engagement.
- Speaking loudly is not synonymous with therapeutic communication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Clarifying is a purposeful, interactive, and supportive technique used to ensure accurate understanding between nurse and patient. It involves asking the patient to elaborate, restate, or provide more detail when their message is ambiguous or emotionally charged. This technique prevents misinterpretation and promotes mutual clarity. It is especially useful when patients express complex emotions or vague statements. Normal therapeutic speech should maintain congruence between tone and content; clarification helps resolve discrepancies and fosters trust.
Rationale for correct answers
B. “Could you explain more about what you mean by that?” is a direct clarifying statement. It invites the patient to elaborate, ensuring the nurse accurately understands the message. This promotes therapeutic dialogue and prevents assumptions.
Rationale for incorrect answers
A. “I was in labor for 12 hours with my first child” is a self-disclosure, not a clarifying technique. It shifts focus to the nurse’s experience and may distract from the patient’s concerns.
C. “You’ll be fine, don’t worry” is false reassurance. It dismisses the patient’s feelings and avoids clarification. Therapeutic communication requires validation and inquiry, not minimization.
D. “That’s exactly what I would do in your place” is giving approval or advice. It imposes the nurse’s perspective and does not seek clarification of the patient’s thoughts or feelings.
Take home points
- Clarifying involves asking for elaboration to ensure understanding.
- False reassurance and advice are non-therapeutic techniques.
- Self-disclosure should be limited and purposeful, not used to clarify.
- Therapeutic communication centers on patient expression, not nurse opinion.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.