ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Restlessness. In generalized anxiety disorder, individuals often experience restlessness due to persistent worry and fear. This can manifest as physical agitation and an inability to relax. Increased energy (
A) is not typically associated with generalized anxiety disorder, as individuals may feel fatigued due to constant worrying. Euphoric mood (
C) is more characteristic of conditions like bipolar disorder, not generalized anxiety disorder. Depersonalization (
D) involves feeling detached from oneself and is more commonly associated with conditions like dissociative disorders, not generalized anxiety disorder.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is planning care for a client who has a history of alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor for seizures. During alcohol withdrawal, clients are at risk for seizures due to central nervous system hyperexcitability. Monitoring for seizures allows for prompt intervention if they occur. Administering disulfiram (
A) is used to deter alcohol consumption, not for withdrawal. Restricting fluid intake (
C) can worsen dehydration, while providing a high-protein diet (
D) is not a priority during alcohol withdrawal.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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.