ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse in a psychiatric unit is caring for a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Encourage the client to use thought-stopping techniques. This is because thought-stopping techniques are a common cognitive-behavioral intervention used to help individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder interrupt and replace their distressing thoughts or compulsive behaviors with healthier alternatives. By encouraging the client to use these techniques, the nurse can help the client develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms effectively.
Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the core issue of obsessive-compulsive disorder and may even exacerbate the client's symptoms. Allowing the client to perform compulsive rituals reinforces maladaptive behaviors, discouraging discussion about the compulsions limits the client's ability to seek support and understanding, and limiting decision-making opportunities may increase the client's anxiety and feelings of lack of control.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who has post-traumatic stress disorder. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Encourage the client to use relaxation techniques. This is important in managing symptoms of PTSD by helping the client to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindfulness, can help the client cope with distressing thoughts and emotions. Encouraging the client to use these techniques promotes self-soothing and emotional regulation.
Choice A is incorrect because suppressing traumatic memories can worsen symptoms and lead to increased distress.
Choice B is incorrect as discussing the trauma in a safe and supportive environment is a key component of PTSD therapy.
Choice D is incorrect as limiting activities can hinder the client's recovery process.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is providing discharge teaching to the parents of a child who has ADHD and a prescription for methylphenidate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor the child’s weight frequently. This is important because methylphenidate, a stimulant used to treat ADHD, can potentially lead to appetite suppression and weight loss in children. Regular monitoring of the child's weight can help identify any significant changes and allow for appropriate interventions if needed.
Choice A is incorrect because administering the medication at bedtime can lead to insomnia due to its stimulant effects.
Choice C is incorrect as there is no specific recommendation to give the medication with milk.
Choice D is incorrect because insomnia is a common side effect of methylphenidate and does not necessarily warrant discontinuation of the medication unless severe or persistent.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse in a mental health facility is caring for a client who has borderline personality disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Persistent mood swings. Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable emotions, leading to frequent and intense mood swings. This is a hallmark feature of the disorder. Hypersomnia (choice
B) is not typically associated with borderline personality disorder. Avoidance of eye contact (choice
C) is more commonly seen in conditions like social anxiety disorder. Ritualistic behaviors (choice
D) are more characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder, not borderline personality disorder. In summary, persistent mood swings are a key feature of borderline personality disorder, distinguishing it from the other options provided.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking lithium. Which of the following values should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL. Elevated creatinine levels indicate potential kidney damage from lithium toxicity. The nurse should report this value to the provider for further evaluation.
Choices A, B, and D are within normal ranges and not directly related to lithium toxicity.
Therefore, they do not require immediate attention.