ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which medication from the medication administration record should a nurse administer to provide immediate intervention for a psychotic patient whose aggressive behavior continues to escalate despite verbal intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Olanzapine. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication that acts quickly to help manage aggressive behavior in psychotic patients. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to reduce agitation and aggression.
A: Lithium is used for mood stabilization in conditions like bipolar disorder, not for immediate intervention in escalating aggression.
B: Trazodone is an antidepressant often used for sleep disturbances, not typically indicated for acute aggression.
D: Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant used for seizure disorders, not typically used for immediate aggression control.
In summary, Olanzapine is the most appropriate choice for immediate intervention in managing escalating aggressive behavior in a psychotic patient due to its rapid onset and effectiveness in reducing agitation and aggression.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is preparing his advance directives. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of advanced directives?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: I have the right to refuse treatment. This statement indicates an understanding of advance directives as it acknowledges the client's autonomy in making decisions about their healthcare, including the option to refuse treatment. This aligns with the purpose of advance directives, which is to allow individuals to express their healthcare preferences in advance.
Explanation of incorrect choices:
A: I can't change my instructions once a minute - This statement is incorrect because individuals have the right to update or change their advance directives at any time.
B: My doctor will need to approve my advance directives - This is incorrect as advance directives are the patient's own preferences and do not require approval from the doctor.
C: I need an attorney to witness my signature on the advance directives - While having a witness is recommended, it does not necessarily have to be an attorney. This choice implies a misunderstanding of the requirements for advance directives.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is counseling a family with a child who has been abused by an adult family friend in the past. When explaining about the child's needs, which of the following would be most important for the nurse to stress?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Step 1: A supportive relationship with an adult is crucial for the child to rebuild trust and feel safe after experiencing abuse.
Step 2: Long-term psychotherapy may be beneficial, but establishing a supportive relationship is the primary focus.
Step 3: Antidepressant medications may be used if necessary, but the primary need is emotional support.
Step 4: Short-term separation from parents can further traumatize the child; maintaining a supportive family environment is key.
Summary:
Choice A is correct because it addresses the immediate emotional needs of the child post-abuse, while the other choices focus on secondary or potentially harmful interventions.
Question 4 of 5
While interviewing a patient, a nurse asks, 'What do you do when you get angry?' Which patient response would indicate to the nurse that the patient engages in anger suppression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because withdrawing and pouting about the problem indicates a passive-aggressive behavior associated with anger suppression. This response suggests that the patient avoids direct confrontation and attempts to mask their anger by withdrawing and internalizing their emotions.
A: "I've been known to fly off the handle when I'm angry." - This response indicates explosive anger expression, not suppression.
C: "I usually approach the person directly to talk about it." - This response suggests open communication, not suppression.
D: "I try to discuss how I'm feeling about it with a close friend." - This response implies seeking support and emotional expression, not suppression.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The nurse has instructed the client about using the communication triad. The nurse determines that the client has understood this technique when he states which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Correct
Answer: A
Rationale:
1. "I should start by stating my feelings as an 'I' statement" is correct because using 'I' statements helps the client express their feelings without blaming others.
2. By starting with their own feelings, the client takes ownership of their emotions and promotes effective communication.
3. This approach also helps in avoiding conflict and promotes empathy and understanding between the client and the other person.
Summary:
- Option B is incorrect because starting with describing the situation may lead to blaming or accusing the other person.
- Option C is incorrect because starting with what the client wants to change may come across as demanding or aggressive.
- Option D is incorrect because starting with what triggered the emotion may focus on external factors rather than the client's feelings.