ATI LPN
Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice
Chapter 19 : Management of Anger, Aggression, and Violence Questions
Question 1 of 5
A son brings his father to the clinic and tells the nurse that his father has begun to act strangely in the past few days and has unprovoked outbursts of anger. After the incidents, the father expresses remorse for his outburst. The son says, I?ve never seen him act this way. Which question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask next?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Asking about recent traumatic brain injury is most appropriate, as sudden behavioral changes, such as unprovoked anger outbursts in an older adult with no prior history, may indicate a neurological issue, such as a brain injury. The other options are less likely to explain the sudden onset of symptoms.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for an older adult patient who has no history of violence but is agitated and appears ready to strike out at a staff member. The nurse would assess the patient for which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sensory losses, such as hearing or vision impairment, are common in older adults and can lead to agitation or perceived aggression due to frustration or miscommunication. Panic disorder, epilepsy, or bipolar disorder are less likely causes without additional symptoms or history.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has been admitted to the detoxification unit after binge drinking. Even though the patient is not currently intoxicated, he is combative and exhibits altered thought processes. Which nursing diagnosis would be the priority?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis is 'Risk for Other-Directed Violence related to alcohol withdrawal,' as the patient?s combative behavior and altered thought processes pose an immediate risk to others. Safety is the primary concern in this scenario, outweighing risks for injury, self-mutilation, or developmental delays.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is working with a potentially violent patient in a community clinic. Which of the following would the nurse implement to minimize personal risk?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Staying close to a door allows the nurse to exit quickly if the situation escalates, minimizing personal risk. Protective devices may not be practical, closing the door reduces escape options, and wearing jewelry could increase risk by attracting attention.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a family whose older father with dementia is living in their home. The nurse has instructed the family about how to decrease the father?s agitation. The nurse determines that the son has understood the nurse?s instructions when he states which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Simplifying the home environment reduces sensory overload, which can decrease agitation in patients with dementia. Restraints can increase agitation, close monitoring in a bedroom may not address triggers, and shopping outings may overstimulate the patient.