ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice A Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is a common side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Corrected
Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a commonly reported side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs can affect sexual function by causing issues such as decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or anorgasmia. Patients should be educated about these potential side effects when starting SSRIs to facilitate informed decision-making and appropriate management strategies.
Incorrect
Choices:
A) Hypotension is not a common side effect of SSRIs.
C) Increased appetite is not a common side effect of SSRIs.
D) Tachycardia is not a common side effect of SSRIs.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine. Which potential side effect requires regular monitoring?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a patient with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine, regular monitoring for agranulocytosis is essential. Agranulocytosis is a severe reduction in white blood cells that can be life-threatening. Monitoring white blood cell counts is crucial to detect this side effect early and prevent serious complications. Weight loss (
Choice
A) is not a common side effect of clozapine. Hypertension (
Choice
B) and hyperthyroidism (
Choice
D) are also not typically associated with clozapine use, making them incorrect choices for regular monitoring.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is performing a ritualistic handwashing routine. What is the nurse's best initial response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD engaging in ritualistic behaviors like handwashing, the nurse's best initial response is to allow the ritual but set limits on the duration. This approach helps in managing the behavior while gradually working towards reducing its frequency. Interrupting the ritual abruptly may cause distress to the patient, ignoring the behavior may reinforce it, and encouraging the patient to stop the ritual without setting limits may not be as effective in the initial stage of intervention.
Question 4 of 5
What should the nurse include in patient education for a patient starting on bupropion for major depressive disorder?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Patients prescribed bupropion should be educated to avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication to reduce the risk of seizures. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, and alcohol can further increase this risk. It is important for patients to understand the potential consequences of combining bupropion with alcohol to ensure their safety and treatment effectiveness.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Taking bupropion in the morning does not prevent insomnia; it is not associated with significant weight gain; and it is not a first-line treatment for anxiety.
Question 5 of 5
What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging deep, slow breathing is the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack. This technique can help the patient regulate their breathing, reduce hyperventilation, and promote relaxation, which are essential in managing the symptoms of a panic attack.
Choice B, encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings, may not be effective during an acute panic attack as the focus should be on calming the patient down.
Choice C, leaving the patient alone, can lead to increased feelings of fear and isolation during a panic attack.
Choice D, engaging the patient in physical activity, may exacerbate symptoms as it can increase the feeling of being out of control.