ATI LPN
ATI Mental Health Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with panic disorder is prescribed alprazolam. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you. This is crucial because alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. It is important to prioritize safety and prevent accidents.
Choice B is incorrect as alprazolam does not necessarily need to be taken with food.
Choice C is incorrect as alprazolam is typically taken during the day due to its sedative effects.
Choice D is incorrect as increasing the dose without medical guidance can lead to overdose and adverse effects.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
1. Consistency in medication timing helps maintain a steady blood level for effectiveness.
2. Following a regular schedule improves adherence and reduces the risk of missing doses.
3. Ensures optimal therapeutic effects and minimizes potential side effects.
4. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as stopping abruptly, mixing with alcohol, or taking as needed can lead to relapse, reduced efficacy, or increased risk of side effects.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Step-by-step rationale:
1. Buspirone is not meant for immediate relief, so taking it consistently is crucial for its effectiveness.
2. Buspirone takes time to build up in the body and show its full effect, usually a few weeks.
3. Buspirone is known for having a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
4. Taking buspirone consistently is essential, unlike benzodiazepines which are often taken on an as-needed basis.
Therefore, choice A is incorrect as it goes against the appropriate usage of buspirone for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
Question 4 of 5
A healthcare professional is assessing a patient with bipolar disorder. Which finding suggests the patient is experiencing a manic episode?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased need for sleep. During a manic episode in bipolar disorder, individuals often experience decreased need for sleep. This is a key symptom of mania, as it is characterized by high energy levels, impulsivity, and decreased need for rest. In contrast, option B (feelings of worthlessness) is more reflective of symptoms seen in depressive episodes, not manic episodes. Option C (increased need for sleep) is also not indicative of mania, as mania is associated with decreased sleep. Option D (avoidance of social interactions) may occur in some cases, but it is not a defining feature of mania.
Question 5 of 5
Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because excessive worrying about various aspects of life is a core symptom of GAD. This persistent and uncontrollable worry is disproportionate to the actual events or situations. Fear of social situations (
A) is common in social anxiety disorder, not GAD. Hallucinations (
C) are not typically associated with GAD. Impulsive behaviors (
D) are more indicative of conditions like ADHD or impulse control disorders.