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Quizzes > Health & Medicine

Nursing Therapeutic Communication Quiz

Quick, free nursing communication practice quiz with instant feedback.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Cyril ClementUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper hands with chat bubbles heart and stethoscope around Nursing Therapeutic Communication 101 quiz on blue background

This therapeutic communication quiz helps you practice building rapport, reflective listening, and compassionate, patient-centered responses. Strengthen structured handoffs with our sbar communication quiz, refresh bedside basics with nursing assessment questions, or gauge overall readiness with a nursing clinical competency quiz. Get instant feedback to spot gaps before clinicals or the NCLEX.

What term describes the focused exchange between a nurse and a patient aimed at promoting understanding and trust?
Nonverbal communication
Therapeutic communication
Small talk
Report giving
Therapeutic communication is a purposeful form of communication used by nurses to support patient well-being and build rapport. It involves active listening, empathy, and clear, patient-centered dialogue. Unlike nonverbal communication alone or casual small talk, therapeutic communication is goal-directed and fosters trust. Learn more at .
Which communication technique involves restating the patient's message in your own words to confirm understanding?
Probing
Blocking
Paraphrasing
Focusing
Paraphrasing requires the nurse to express the patient's message in different words to ensure accurate understanding. This technique helps clarify patient concerns and minimizes misunderstandings. It differs from probing, which seeks additional information, and blocking, which stops communication. See more at .
Which nonverbal behavior best indicates active listening during a patient interaction?
Looking away frequently
Crossing your arms
Leaning forward toward the patient
Checking your watch
Leaning forward conveys interest and engagement, which are key aspects of active listening. Avoiding eye contact or checking your watch can signal disinterest. Maintaining an open posture and appropriate eye contact further reinforce listening behaviors. Additional guidance is available at .
Which phrase is an example of an open-ended question that encourages patient expression?
"Are you in pain?"
"Is your pain severe?"
"Can you tell me more about your pain?"
"Do you want pain medication?"
Open-ended questions like "Can you tell me more about your pain?" allow patients to provide detailed responses and share feelings. Yes/no questions limit discussion and may not reveal underlying concerns. Encouraging narrative helps nurses gain deeper insights into patient needs. For more, visit .
What is the primary goal of therapeutic communication in nursing practice?
Collect insurance information
Document vital signs
Promote patient well-being and trust
Build peer relationships
The main objective of therapeutic communication is to foster a trusting relationship and support patient well-being. Although documentation and administrative tasks are important, they are not the focus of therapeutic techniques. Taking time to engage empathetically can improve outcomes and patient satisfaction. Read more at .
Which barrier to communication is demonstrated by using unfamiliar medical jargon with a patient?
Physical barrier
Emotional barrier
Technical language barrier
Cultural barrier
Using medical jargon can confuse patients and hinder understanding, constituting a technical language barrier. Emotional barriers involve feelings like anxiety, and physical barriers include sensory deficits. Simplifying language and checking comprehension helps overcome this obstacle. More info at .
Which nursing statement best demonstrates empathy toward a patient who is upset?
"I can see this is very hard for you right now."
"Everything will be fine tomorrow."
"At least it's not worse."
"You shouldn't feel that way."
Acknowledging the patient's feelings with an empathic statement shows understanding and validates emotions. Minimizing or dismissing feelings is nontherapeutic and can damage rapport. Empathy encourages open dialogue and trust. See techniques at .
Which question is an example of a closed-ended question?
"Do you have pain right now?"
"What else can you tell me about your pain?"
"How do you feel about your pain today?"
"Can you describe where it hurts most?"
Closed-ended questions like "Do you have pain right now?" elicit yes/no responses and limit patient elaboration. Open-ended questions encourage detailed descriptions and provide richer information for care planning. Both types have a place but serve different purposes. Learn more at .
Which of the following is an example of nontherapeutic communication?
"I'd like to understand your worries."
"Why are you feeling anxious?"
"You have every right to your feelings."
"Tell me what you're thinking."
Asking "Why?" can make patients feel defensive and judged, which is nontherapeutic. Encouraging story-telling or validating feelings supports a safe communication environment. Therapeutic communication avoids blame and promotes understanding. See best practices at .
A patient expresses anxiety about an upcoming procedure. Which therapeutic response is most appropriate?
"Don't worry; everything will be fine."
"You shouldn't feel anxious."
"You've been through worse."
"Tell me more about what concerns you most."
Inviting the patient to elaborate with "Tell me more..." encourages expression of fears and fosters understanding. Dismissing concerns and false reassurance shut down communication. Open dialogue helps the nurse address specific anxieties and provide targeted support. More guidance at .
In the SBAR technique, what does the 'B' represent?
Behavior
Benefits
Briefing
Background
SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation. 'Background' includes relevant patient history and context. This structure ensures concise and effective handoffs or consults. Learn SBAR details at .
A patient refuses pain medication. Which is the best first step?
Ignore and move on
Document refusal and leave
Insist they need it
Ask why they are refusing
Asking the patient why they refuse medication shows respect and uncovers concerns or misconceptions. Simply insisting or ignoring fails to address underlying issues. Understanding reasons can guide alternative interventions. More at .
Which strategy helps overcome cultural and language barriers in communication?
Using medical jargon
Relying on family for translation
Using a certified medical interpreter
Speaking louder slowly
A certified medical interpreter ensures accurate translation and maintains confidentiality. Speaking louder or slower may be perceived as patronizing and isn't effective for language differences. Family members may omit or alter information. Guidelines at .
Which statement exemplifies maintaining a therapeutic boundary with a patient?
Giving personal phone number to patient
Inviting patient to your home
Offering a handshake at the beginning of care
Accepting expensive gifts from patient
A handshake is a professional gesture that upholds appropriate boundaries. Sharing personal contact information or accepting lavish gifts can blur professional roles. Maintaining clear limits protects both nurse and patient. See ANA guidance at .
Which response is an empathic reflection when a patient says, 'I feel alone and scared'?
"I'm sure you'll be fine soon."
"You shouldn't feel that way."
"It sounds like you're feeling very frightened and isolated."
"You have family who cares for you."
Reflecting acknowledges both the emotion and the content, validating the patient's experience. Minimizing or dismissing feelings can undermine rapport. Empathic reflection builds trust and encourages further sharing. For more, visit .
What is the best way to verify patient understanding of discharge instructions?
Speak louder if they don't respond
Ask the patient to explain instructions back to you
Rely on family to remember details
Provide printed materials only
The teach-back method confirms patient comprehension by having them restate information. Simply giving materials or speaking louder doesn't guarantee understanding. Involving family can help but primary validation is with the patient. See details at .
In the SOLER model of nonverbal communication, what does the 'O' stand for?
Open posture
Organized thoughts
Offensive stance
Observant gaze
SOLER stands for Sit facing, Open posture, Lean forward, Eye contact, and Relax. An open posture means arms and legs uncrossed, conveying receptivity. This model helps nurses create a supportive environment. Learn more at .
A patient angrily states, 'No one here cares about me.' Which is the most therapeutic response?
"Everyone here does their best."
"You shouldn't feel that way."
"Stop yelling or I'll leave."
"It sounds like you're feeling uncared for; tell me more."
Acknowledging the patient's feelings allows them to feel heard and may de-escalate anger. Defending staff or dismissing emotions can increase hostility. A calm, empathic invitation to discuss encourages resolution. More insights at .
When communicating with a patient who has dementia, which type of question is most effective?
Open-ended questions
Rhetorical questions
Multiple-choice questions
Simple yes/no questions
Patients with dementia often process information better with straightforward yes/no prompts. Multiple-choice can overwhelm, and open-ended questions may be confusing. Clear, concise questions support cognitive limitations. Guidelines at .
Which technique ensures that a message sent is accurately received by the listener?
Confrontation
Filtering
Feedback
Interrupting
Feedback involves asking the listener to restate or summarize the message, confirming accurate reception. Interrupting or filtering impedes the communication loop, and confrontation can escalate conflict. Effective feedback closes the loop and fosters clarity. More at .
Which of the following statements is nontherapeutic when responding to a grieving patient?
"It's okay to feel sad."
"Tell me about your loved one."
"I'm here to support you."
"I know just how you feel."
Claiming you know exactly how the patient feels can minimize their unique experience and is nontherapeutic. Inviting them to share memories and offering support validates individual grief. Therapeutic responses respect the person's feelings. Read more at .
Under HIPAA regulations, which information can a nurse share without patient authorization?
On social media support groups
With the patient's employer
With media outlets
With another provider for treatment purposes
HIPAA permits sharing protected health information with other healthcare providers for treatment. Disclosure to employers or media requires explicit patient authorization. Social media sharing is a violation of privacy rules. Official details at .
When is silence considered a therapeutic communication tool?
Throughout the entire assessment
When you're unsure what to say
To avoid addressing patient questions
After giving difficult news
Strategic silence after delivering difficult news allows patients to process emotions and encourages them to speak when ready. Silence should not be used to avoid or neglect patient concerns. Used judiciously, it demonstrates presence and respect. More at .
A patient says, 'I don't trust any medical staff.' Which response reflects patient advocacy?
"All staff are the same; try again."
"Please share what has led to this distrust so I can help address it."
"You should trust us; we know what's best."
"Let's move on to another topic."
Encouraging the patient to explain concerns shows advocacy and a willingness to address issues. Forcing trust or dismissing feelings compromises therapeutic alliance. Patient advocacy involves listening and intervening on behalf of patient needs. Learn more at .
When is therapeutic touch appropriate in a patient interaction?
Only with family present
With patient permission and cultural sensitivity
Without asking if it soothes you
For personal comfort when stressed
Therapeutic touch should always be based on informed consent and respect for cultural preferences. Uninvited or self-serving touch can violate boundaries. Verbal consent and sensitivity are essential. For guidelines, see .
How should a nurse address language discordance when no interpreter is immediately available?
Rely on untrained family members
Avoid providing any information until interpreter arrives
Use simple, clear language and validated translation apps
Shout louder and slower
Using validated translation tools and clear, simple language helps bridge communication gaps until a professional interpreter is present. Shouting or relying on untrained family can introduce errors and ethical issues. Providing essential information respectfully is critical. Reference: .
Which ethical principle is most directly upheld by practicing therapeutic communication?
Justice
Respect for autonomy
Fidelity
Nonmaleficence
Therapeutic communication supports patient autonomy by ensuring they have the information and support to make informed decisions. While nonmaleficence and fidelity are important, effective dialogue most directly honors patients' rights to self-determination. For ethical frameworks, visit .
Which advanced communication technique from cognitive behavioral approaches helps patients challenge irrational beliefs?
Socratic questioning
Close-ended probing
Passive listening
Nontherapeutic confrontation
Socratic questioning encourages patients to examine and reframe irrational thoughts through guided inquiry. Passive listening or closed probes lack the structured challenge that CBT requires. This method can be incorporated into therapeutic communication to promote insight. More at .
In a resource-limited setting, a nurse is torn between patient advocacy and system constraints. What is the most ethical communication approach?
Explain constraints honestly and collaborate on feasible solutions
Refer patient elsewhere without discussion
Promise unavailable treatments to appease patient
Ignore patient concerns to follow policy
Honest communication about limitations while seeking collaborative solutions respects the patient's right to informed decision-making and maintains trust. False promises or dismissal violate ethical principles. Ethical practice balances advocacy with transparency. Guidance at .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand nursing therapeutic communication 101 principles -

    Summarize the foundational concepts of therapeutic communication and recognize their role in delivering patient-centered care.

  2. Analyze communication process questions and answers -

    Break down common communication process questions and answers to identify effective verbal and nonverbal strategies in clinical settings.

  3. Apply active listening and empathy strategies -

    Use proven active listening techniques and empathetic responses to strengthen nurse - patient rapport and improve understanding.

  4. Demonstrate rapport-building methods -

    Implement practical strategies to establish trust, openness, and a therapeutic relationship during patient interactions.

  5. Evaluate patient advocacy approaches -

    Assess different advocacy scenarios through RN learning system communication practice quizzes to support patient rights and needs.

  6. Develop confidence for the RN learning system communication final quiz -

    Engage with scenario-based questions to reinforce skills and prepare effectively for your final assessment.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Phases of the Nurse-Patient Relationship -

    According to Peplau's interpersonal relations theory, the nurse-patient relationship evolves through Pre-Orientation, Orientation, Working, and Termination phases. Understanding each phase helps you answer communication process questions and answers accurately in your rn learning system communication final quiz. Mastering this framework boosts confidence in any nursing therapeutic communication 101 scenario.

  2. Active Listening and the SOLER Mnemonic -

    Emphasize SOLER (Sit facing, Open posture, Lean toward the patient, Eye contact, Relax) to demonstrate empathy and build rapport (Arnold & Boggs, 2019). Practicing paraphrasing and summarizing in simulation improves performance on the rn learning system communication practice quiz. Remember: "Listen with your whole self" to lock in active listening skills.

  3. Harnessing Nonverbal Communication Cues -

    Facial expressions, gestures, and posture convey messages beyond words; congruence between verbal and nonverbal communication fosters trust (ANA, 2021). Use the memory phrase "Words say, Body plays" to recall the importance of nonverbal congruence during assessments. Spotting discrepancies in cues strengthens clinical observations for nursing therapeutic communication 101 mastery.

  4. Overcoming Common Communication Barriers -

    Identify barriers such as cultural differences, language gaps, and sensory impairments, and apply strategies like interpreters or simplified language (NCBI, 2022). Role-play scenarios help embed solutions into your communication process questions and answers toolkit. This preparation ensures you excel in both the rn learning system communication practice quiz and final quiz.

  5. Advocating Ethically Through Therapeutic Communication -

    Uphold patient autonomy, confidentiality, and informed consent per the ANA Code of Ethics to advocate effectively (ANA, 2020). Employ clear, respectful language and validate patient concerns to solidify trust and empowerment. Strong ethical communication is a cornerstone of nursing therapeutic communication 101 excellence.

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