ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
A female consumer with severe and recurrent mania argues with outpatient staff about her medication. She does not believe she has a mental illness. Although she takes medication during hospitalizations, she stops taking them after discharge. Which intervention is most helpful in promoting medication adherence?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it focuses on exploring the patient's perceptions and experiences regarding medication and linking medication adherence to her personal goals. By understanding the patient's beliefs and motivations, the healthcare provider can tailor interventions to address her specific concerns and increase her willingness to take medication. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and empowers her to make informed decisions about her treatment.
Choice A is incorrect because changing staff members may not address the underlying issues contributing to medication non-adherence.
Choice B is not as effective as it focuses solely on explaining the benefits and side effects of medication without considering the patient's individual beliefs and concerns.
Choice C, while providing education, does not address the patient's personal experiences and motivations, which are crucial in promoting medication adherence.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following clients does not have the ability to refuse medications or treatments? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: A client who has been deemed incompetent by the court. This client does not have the ability to refuse medications or treatments because they have been legally declared incompetent to make decisions regarding their own healthcare. This determination is made by the court based on the individual's mental capacity. In contrast, choices A and B pertain to clients who are under different forms of commitment, but maintain the right to refuse treatment unless there is an emergency or specific legal circumstance.
Choice D, a client with antisocial personality disorder, still retains the right to refuse medications or treatments unless they are deemed a danger to themselves or others.
Question 3 of 5
In the 2 months after his wife's death, Aaron, aged 90 and in good health, has begun to pay less attention to his hygiene and seems less alert to his surroundings. He complains of difficulty concentrating and sleeping and reports that he lacks energy. His family sometimes has to remind and encourage him to shower, take his medications, and eat, all of which he then does. Which response is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because Aaron's symptoms of decreased hygiene, alertness, concentration, sleep difficulties, and lack of energy are indicative of depression rather than dementia. By arranging an appointment with a therapist for evaluation and treatment of suspected depression, Aaron can receive proper care and support.
Choice A is incorrect as reorienting Mr. Smith by pointing out the day and date may not address the underlying issue of depression.
Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of dementia symptoms and assuming stage 2 dementia without proper evaluation is premature.
Choice C is incorrect as avoiding touch and proximity may exacerbate feelings of isolation and worsen his condition without addressing the root cause of his symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
Therapeutic communication is the foundation of a patient-centered interview. Which of the following techniques is not considered therapeutic?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Asking 'why' questions. This technique is not considered therapeutic in therapeutic communication because it can come off as confrontational or judgmental, potentially making the patient defensive. Instead, therapeutic communication aims to create a safe and supportive environment for the patient to express their thoughts and feelings openly. Restating, encouraging description of perception, and summarizing are all considered therapeutic techniques as they demonstrate active listening, empathy, and understanding, which help build trust and rapport with the patient. Asking open-ended questions that explore the patient's feelings and experiences without implying judgment or blame is more effective in facilitating meaningful discussions and promoting patient-centered care.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Based on the nurse's understanding of this disorder, the nurse develops a plan of care to address which issue as the top priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicide. Schizoaffective disorder is associated with an increased risk of suicide. Addressing suicide prevention is the top priority to ensure the client's safety. Suicide risk assessment and intervention are crucial in managing this disorder. Aggression (
B), substance abuse (
C), and eating disorder (
D) may also be present but addressing suicide takes precedence due to the high risk associated with this disorder.