NCLEX-RN
Psychiatric NCLEX RN Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is taking 50 mg of lamotrigine (Lamictal) daily for bipolar depression. The client shows the nurse a rash on his arm. What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A rash with Lamictal may indicate a serious reaction like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, requiring immediate physician notification.
Question 2 of 5
The client exhibits a flat affect, psychomotor retardation, and depressed mood. The nurse attempts to engage the client in an interaction but the client does not respond to the nurse. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Sitting quietly with the client provides presence and support, respecting their current inability to engage.
Question 3 of 5
During an interaction with the nurse, a client states, 'My husband has supported me every time I've been hospitalized for depression. He'll leave me this time. I'm an awful wife and mother. I'm no good. Nothing I do is right.' Based on this information, which of the following nursing diagnoses should the nurse identify when developing the client's plan of care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The client's negative self-statements directly indicate chronic low self-esteem, a priority nursing diagnosis.
Question 4 of 5
The client who has been taking venlafaxine (Effexor) 25 mg P.O. three times a day for the past 2 days states, 'This medicine isn't doing me any good. I'm still so depressed.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Explaining the 2–4 week onset of antidepressants sets realistic expectations and encourages adherence.
Question 5 of 5
The client diagnosed with severe major depression has been taking Lexapro 10 mg daily for 2 weeks. Using nursing process methodology, which of the following parameters should the nurse monitor most closely at this time?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Suicidal ideation must be closely monitored, especially early in antidepressant therapy, due to increased risk.