ATI RN
Virtual ATI Mental Health Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient experiencing panic suddenly began running and shouting, "I'm going to explode!" Select the nurse's best action.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it focuses on de-escalation by providing reassurance and support to the patient. By telling the patient to stop running and take a deep breath, the nurse acknowledges the patient's distress and offers assistance. This approach aims to help the patient regain control in a calming manner.
Choice A is incorrect because asking for an example may not address the immediate need for de-escalation.
Choice B is incorrect as physically restraining the patient could escalate the situation further.
Choice D is incorrect as it may provoke feelings of fear or lack of control in the patient by mentioning seclusion.
Question 2 of 5
A 4-year-old grabs toys from other children and says, 'I want that now!' From a psychoanalytic perspective, this behavior is a product of impulses originating in which system of the personality?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Id. According to psychoanalytic theory by Freud, the Id is the primitive and instinctual part of the mind that operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification of needs and desires without considering consequences. In this scenario, the child grabbing toys impulsively and demanding immediate satisfaction aligns with the characteristics of the Id. The Ego, on the other hand, mediates between the Id and the external world, considering reality and consequences. The Superego represents internalized societal and parental values, regulating moral and ethical behavior. The Preconscious refers to thoughts that are not currently in awareness but can be easily brought to consciousness.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is deciding about the size of the group. The nurse determines that a large group would be best based on which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because a large group is more effective for dealing with a specific issue due to the diversity of perspectives and experiences that can be shared. In a large group, there are more opportunities for brainstorming, problem-solving, and support. This leads to a richer discussion and more comprehensive exploration of the issue at hand.
Choice A is incorrect because transference and countertransference issues can still arise in a large group setting.
Choice B is incorrect as group cohesiveness may actually be harder to achieve in a larger group.
Choice C is incorrect as a large group offers more potential interactions and relationships, not limited ones.
Question 4 of 5
A group of nursing students are reviewing information about co-occurring disorders and risks for substance abuse. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which psychiatric disorder as being associated with the highest risk for substance abuse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Antisocial personality disorder. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder have a higher risk for substance abuse due to impulsivity, sensation-seeking behavior, and disregard for societal norms. This disorder is characterized by a lack of empathy and concern for others, leading to risky behaviors such as substance abuse. Mania, panic disorder, and phobias are not typically associated with as high a risk for substance abuse as antisocial personality disorder due to different underlying mechanisms. Mania is associated with impulsive behavior but may not always involve substance abuse. Panic disorder and phobias are anxiety disorders that are more focused on specific fears and avoidance behaviors rather than substance abuse tendencies.
Question 5 of 5
Which nursing intervention within the community is aimed at reducing the residual defects that are associated with severe or chronic mental illness?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because referring clients for aftercare services like day treatment programs can provide ongoing support and resources for managing severe or chronic mental illness, aiming to reduce residual defects. This intervention helps individuals access specialized care and therapies that target their specific needs, promoting recovery and minimizing long-term consequences.
Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on providing care after assessing symptoms, which may not necessarily address residual defects associated with severe or chronic mental illness.
Choice C is incorrect as it targets a different population and goal unrelated to reducing residual defects in severe mental illness.
Choice D is incorrect as teaching mental health concepts to groups in the community may raise awareness but does not directly address reducing residual defects in severe or chronic mental illness.