ATI RN
2019 ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse has instructed a client with panic disorder about how to use the technique of positive self-talk. The nurse determines that the client has understood the instructions when the client verbalizes which statement to use during an impending panic attack?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I can handle this anxiety; it will be over shortly." This statement reflects positive self-talk by acknowledging the anxiety but also affirming the client's ability to cope and that the situation is temporary. This empowers the client to manage the panic attack effectively.
Incorrect
Choices:
A: "I am feeling very nervous right now." This choice focuses only on acknowledging the feeling without providing a positive coping strategy.
C: "I am taking medication to eliminate these symptoms." This choice relies solely on medication and does not address the client's ability to cope with the panic attack.
D: "Relax your muscles, relax your muscles." This choice provides a relaxation technique but lacks the empowering and affirming aspect of positive self-talk.
Question 2 of 5
Taylor, a psychiatric registered nurse, orients Regina, a patient with anorexia nervosa, to the room where she will be assigned during her stay. After getting Regina settled, the nurse informs Regina:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because as a psychiatric nurse, it is important to ensure the safety of the patient, especially those with anorexia nervosa who may have harmful items in their belongings. Going through the patient's belongings allows the nurse to assess and remove any potential risks. This action aligns with the duty of care and ensures the patient's well-being.
Choice B is incorrect because using a scale can trigger anxiety and reinforce unhealthy behaviors related to weight monitoring in patients with anorexia nervosa.
Choice C is incorrect as stating a specific number of meals may not be suitable for every individual and could create unnecessary pressure on the patient.
Choice D is incorrect because the structure of care should be based on evidence-based practices and clinical guidelines, not solely on the patient’s desire to eat.
Question 3 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: The correct answer is B: Initiating conversations with the child frequently. This is important as it helps the child practice communication skills and improves their confidence. By engaging in regular conversations, the child gets more opportunities to develop their speech and language abilities. Option A is incorrect as solely focusing on nonverbal activities may neglect the child's speech development. Option C is incorrect as stopping the child's conversation when stuttering begins can lead to frustration and hinder progress. Option D is incorrect as medication is not typically the primary treatment for communication disorders in children.
Question 4 of 5
A client on a psychiatric unit is telling the nurse about anger toward the airline after losing an only child in a plane crash. In which situation is the nurse demonstrating active listening?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because assuming a relaxed posture and leaning toward the client demonstrates active listening by showing empathy and interest in what the client is saying. This nonverbal behavior encourages the client to continue expressing their feelings.
A: Agreeing with the client can shut down communication and invalidate the client's emotions.
B: Repeating everything the client says may come across as robotic and not conducive to building rapport.
D: Expressing sorrow and sadness, while empathetic, may shift the focus from the client to the nurse's emotions.
In summary, actively listening involves nonverbal cues that show understanding and support without interjecting personal opinions or emotions.
Question 5 of 5
When describing the relapse cycle to a group of families of clients experiencing co-occurring disorders, which of the following would the nurse identify as occurring first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decompensation. In the relapse cycle of co-occurring disorders, decompensation typically occurs first. Decompensation refers to a deterioration in mental health symptoms or functioning. This phase often precedes hospitalization, stabilization, and discharge. It signifies a worsening of symptoms and coping mechanisms, leading to a need for increased support and intervention. Hospitalization (choice
A), stabilization (choice
C), and discharge (choice
D) usually occur after decompensation as steps in the treatment process to address the relapse.