NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client diagnosed with conversion disorder has a paralyzed arm. A staff member states, 'I would just tell the client her arm is paralyzed because she had an affair and neglected her baby's care to the point where the baby had to be hospitalized for dehydration.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Saying 'Pushing insight will increase anxiety' is best, as it recognizes that confrontation may worsen symptoms in conversion disorder, advocating for a supportive approach.
Question 2 of 5
The wife of a client with alcohol dependency tells the nurse, 'I'm tired of making excuses for him to his boss and coworkers when he can't make it into work. I believe him every time he says he's going to quit.' The nurse recognizes the wife's statement as indicating which of the following behaviors?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The wife's behavior indicates enabling, as she covers for the client's actions, inadvertently supporting his alcohol dependency by reducing consequences.
Question 3 of 5
The client states to the nurse at the outpatient clinic, 'I don't feel ready to go back to work. It's only been a week since I left the hospital.' Assessment reveals a flat affect, disheveled appearance, poor posture, and minimal eye contact during interaction. The nurse asks the client whether he is thinking about harming himself. The client tells the nurse he has a loaded revolver at home and will probably use it. Which of the following should the nurse do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A specific plan with access to a lethal means (loaded revolver) requires immediate hospitalization.
Question 4 of 5
The client diagnosed with major depression and dependent personality disorder has made the decision to live independently in an apartment. The nurse and the client meet with his parents to discuss his decision. Which statement by the nurse is most helpful to foster the client's independence?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Stating 'All of you will gain from his independent living; he needs our support' promotes the client's independence while framing it as a positive step for the family, encouraging support without fostering dependency.
Question 5 of 5
A client diagnosed with bulimia tells the nurse she only eats excessively when upset with her best friend, and then she vomits to avoid gaining a lot of weight. The nurse should next:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Working to limit purging addresses the harmful behavior directly while therapy can explore the emotional trigger.