ATI LPN
Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice 6th Edition
Chapter 36 : Mental Health Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 3½-year-old child with autism who has been hospitalized. The child rocks continuously without any danger present to the child?s safety. Which intervention by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rocking is a common self-soothing behavior in children with autism and is not harmful in this context. Ignoring the behavior (option
C) is most appropriate, as it avoids reinforcing or escalating the behavior while ensuring safety. Option A is passive and less specific. Options B and D could distress the child and are inappropriate for non-harmful behaviors.
Question 2 of 5
A child diagnosed with autism is hospitalized in an inpatient mental health unit. When developing the plan of care for this child, which of the following would the nurse most likely include?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Children with autism thrive in consistent, structured environments with predictable routines, as these reduce anxiety and support behavioral stability. Option A is counterproductive, as multiple caregivers can disrupt consistency. Option C may overstimulate the child, and option D is inappropriate for managing repetitive behaviors typical of autism.
Question 3 of 5
The school nurse is caring for a 7-year-old child who has demonstrated a significantly lower-than-average score for mental age on standardized tests in reading. However, the child?s IQ scores were within the average range. The nurse interprets this information as suggesting which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A significantly lower reading score despite an average IQ suggests dyslexia, a learning disorder affecting reading and language processing. Option A is too broad, as communication disorders encompass more than reading issues. Option B (ADH
D) typically affects attention, not specifically reading. Option C (Asperger?s) is less likely, as it primarily involves social and behavioral challenges, not reading-specific deficits.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is counseling a parent whose child has a communication disorder. Which of the following would the nurse emphasize when teaching the parent about this disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Initiating frequent conversations encourages communication practice and skill development, which is key for managing communication disorders. Option A may be helpful but is less central than verbal interaction. Option C is counterproductive, as interrupting stuttering can increase anxiety. Option D is inappropriate, as medication is not typically indicated for communication disorders like stuttering.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a child who is suspected of having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Which of the following would the nurse identify as reflecting impulsiveness in the child?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Inability to wait one?s turn is a hallmark of impulsiveness in ADHD, as it reflects acting without forethought. Option B (restlessness) relates to hyperactivity, and option C (difficulty completing tasks) reflects inattention. Option D (risk-taking) may occur but is less specific to impulsiveness than waiting difficulties.