which of the following scenarios provides an example of a nurse overcoming a barrier to communication

NCLEX-RN

NCLEX RN Actual Exam Test Bank

1. Which of the following scenarios provides an example of a healthcare professional overcoming a barrier to communication?

A. A healthcare professional uses a visual aid to explain how to conduct a fingerstick glucose test to a patient with visual impairment.
B. A healthcare professional writes down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired.
C. A healthcare professional raises their voice when speaking to a patient who does not speak English.
D. A healthcare professional uses medical jargon while conversing with a minor.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Overcoming barriers to communication in healthcare involves utilizing methods of communication that are accessible and understandable to the recipient. In the scenario provided, writing down instructions for a patient who is hearing impaired is an effective way to ensure clear communication and overcome the obstacle of hearing impairment. This method allows the patient to visually comprehend the information provided. Choice A is incorrect because using a visual aid for a visually impaired patient, not a hearing-impaired patient, would be more appropriate. Choice C is incorrect as raising one's voice does not address the language barrier effectively and may not enhance understanding. Choice D is incorrect as using complex medical terms with a minor may lead to confusion and hinder effective communication.

2. When printing out an EKG, a nurse notices that the QRS complexes are extremely small. What should be the next step?

A. Alert the physician immediately as this is a sign of impending cardiac arrest.
B. Check to see that all leads are attached and rerun the EKG.
C. Increase the sensitivity control to 20 mm deflection.
D. Decrease the run speed to 50.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Increasing the sensitivity control to 20 mm deflection will double the sensitivity, allowing for better observation of the small QRS complexes. This step is crucial in obtaining a clearer EKG reading. Choice A is incorrect because small QRS complexes do not necessarily indicate impending cardiac arrest; it's more likely a technical issue. Choice B is not the first step to take when small QRS complexes are observed; it's important to adjust the settings first. Choice D is incorrect because decreasing the run speed to 50 is not the appropriate action for this situation; adjusting the sensitivity control is more relevant to improve the visualization of the complexes.

3. Which of these statements is true regarding the use of Standard Precautions in the healthcare setting?

A. Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, except sweat.
B. Alcohol-based hand rub should be used if hands are not visibly dirty.
C. Standard Precautions are intended for use with all patients, regardless of their risk or presumed infection status.
D. Standard Precautions are to be used only when non-intact skin, excretions containing visible blood, or expected contact with mucous membranes are present.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Standard Precautions are designed to reduce the risk for transmission of microorganisms from both recognized and unrecognized sources. They are intended for use with all patients, regardless of their risk or presumed infection status. Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, secretions, and excretions except sweat - whether or not they contain visible blood, non-intact skin, or mucous membranes. Hands should be washed with soap and water if visibly soiled with blood or body fluids. Alcohol-based hand rubs can be used if hands are not visibly soiled. Choice A is incorrect because Standard Precautions apply to all body fluids, secretions, and excretions except sweat. Choice B is incorrect because alcohol-based hand rub should be used when hands are not visibly dirty. Choice D is incorrect because Standard Precautions are not limited to situations involving non-intact skin, excretions with visible blood, or expected mucous membrane contact.

4. What does the medical term 'diaphoresis' mean?

A. Profuse vomiting
B. Profuse sweating
C. Gasping for air
D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Profuse sweating. Diaphoresis is a medical term that refers to excessive sweating. It is commonly seen in emergency situations such as heart attacks or diabetic episodes. Choice A, 'Profuse vomiting,' is incorrect as diaphoresis is not related to vomiting. Choice C, 'Gasping for air,' is also incorrect as it refers to difficulty breathing, not sweating. Choice D, 'None of the above,' is incorrect as diaphoresis specifically relates to sweating.

5. In the Gram Stain procedure, which component acts as the mordant?

A. Crystal violet
B. Methyl alcohol
C. Iodine
D. Safranin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the Gram Stain procedure, the mordant is Gram's Iodine. The purpose of the mordant is to form a complex with the crystal violet, enhancing its ability to bind to the cell wall. Crystal violet is actually the primary stain used in the Gram Stain procedure to initially color all cells. Methyl alcohol is the decolorizer that removes the crystal violet from certain cell types. Safranin is the counterstain used to stain those cells that did not retain the crystal violet stain after the decolorization step.