HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which statement best reflects assertive communication regarding a medication order that is not legible?

1. "I cannot give this medication as it is written. I have no idea of what you mean."

2. "Would you please clarify what you have written so I am sure I am reading it correctly?"

3. "I am having difficulty reading your handwriting. It would save me time if you would be more careful."

4. "Please print in the future so I do not have to spend extra time attempting to read your writing."

The correct answer is: "Would you please clarify what you have written so I am sure I am reading it correctly?"

The statement that best reflects assertive communication regarding a medication order that is not legible effectively balances respect, clarity, and a request for assistance. It directly asks for clarification in a courteous manner, which fosters an environment of cooperation. This approach acknowledges the difficulty without placing blame, prioritizing patient safety while maintaining professional relationships. Assertive communication is characterized by an open expression of thoughts and feelings while being respectful of others. By asking for clarification, the chosen statement invites dialogue and clarification, ensuring that the nurse can accurately understand the medication order. This prevents potential errors in medication administration, highlighting the nurse's commitment to patient safety. In contrast, the other statements exhibit various communication styles that may be less effective. For instance, expressing the inability to give medication due to illegibility without requesting clarification could create a barrier to communication. Similarly, framing a request for clearer handwriting as a criticism might lead to defensiveness rather than collaboration. Lastly, demanding printed writing in the future could come across as condescending, which may also hinder open communication. Therefore, the selected option promotes effective communication and a focus on patient care.