ATI RN
PICO Question Psychiatric Emergency Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 35-year-old female is brought to the emergency. She is suffering from schizophrenia and is on haloperidol. She presents with symptoms of fever, sweating, disorientation, and rigidity for one day. Which of the following is the likely condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). In this scenario, the patient's presentation of fever, sweating, disorientation, and rigidity after being on haloperidol is indicative of NMS, a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect of antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. NMS is characterized by altered mental status, autonomic dysfunction, hyperthermia, and muscle rigidity. Option A) Acute dystonia presents with sudden-onset muscle spasms and abnormal postures, usually in the head and neck region, which is not consistent with the patient's symptoms. Option C) Viral encephalitis typically presents with symptoms like headache, altered consciousness, and neurological deficits, which do not align with the patient's symptoms and medication history. Option D) Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and body, usually occurring after prolonged use of antipsychotic medications. The acute onset of symptoms in this case is not suggestive of tardive dyskinesia. Understanding the differentiation between these conditions is crucial for nurses working in psychiatric emergency settings to promptly identify and manage potentially life-threatening complications like NMS. Nurses need to be vigilant about monitoring patients on antipsychotic medications for such side effects and take immediate action to ensure patient safety and well-being.
Question 2 of 5
Premature ejaculation is a disorder of which phase of the normal sexual cycle?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Premature ejaculation is a disorder characterized by the inability to delay ejaculation during sexual activity, leading to distress or interpersonal difficulties. The correct answer is C) Orgasm because premature ejaculation occurs during the orgasm phase of the normal sexual cycle. Option A) Desire is incorrect because it refers to the initial phase when sexual interest or arousal is first triggered. Option B) Arousal is incorrect as it involves physiological changes preparing the body for sexual activity. Option D) Pain is incorrect as it is not a phase of the normal sexual cycle and is unrelated to premature ejaculation. In an educational context, understanding the phases of the normal sexual cycle is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially in psychiatric emergency nursing where issues like premature ejaculation may present. This knowledge helps in accurate assessment, diagnosis, and management of sexual disorders, ensuring comprehensive care for patients experiencing such conditions.
Question 3 of 5
A female client who is wearing dirty clothes and has foul body odor comes to the clinic reporting feeling scared because she is being stalked. What action is most important for the RN to take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Offer the client a safe place to relax before interviewing her. This is important because the client is feeling scared and may be in a vulnerable state. Providing a safe and comfortable environment first helps establish trust and rapport with the client, allowing her to feel more at ease to discuss her concerns. It also shows empathy and understanding towards her current situation. Choice B is incorrect because asking the client to describe why she is being stalked may not be appropriate at this initial stage and could further distress her. Choice C is incorrect as recommending the client talk with a social worker may be premature without understanding the full scope of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as assuring the client that the healthcare provider will see her today does not address her immediate need for a safe and calming environment.
Question 4 of 5
A female client admitted to the mental health unit starts to shout and scream at the RN. What is the best approach for the RN to take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct approach is choice A: Stay quietly with the patient. This is the best option because staying calmly with the patient demonstrates support and understanding. It can help de-escalate the situation by showing the client that their feelings are being acknowledged. It also promotes a sense of safety and trust between the client and the nurse. Choice B is incorrect as telling the client she is out of control may escalate the situation further. Choice C, distracting the client with finger foods, is not addressing the underlying issue and may be seen as dismissive of the client's feelings. Choice D, ignoring the client's behavior, is also inappropriate as it can make the client feel unheard and increase agitation.
Question 5 of 5
The RN is providing care for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder who has self-inflicted lacerations on the abdomen. Which approach should the RN use when changing this client's dressing?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Perform the dressing change in a non-judgmental manner. This approach is essential when caring for clients with borderline personality disorder to build trust and maintain a therapeutic relationship. Providing detailed explanations (choice A) may overwhelm the client. Asking why the client self-harmed (choice C) can be perceived as threatening and may trigger negative emotions. Requesting another staff member's assistance (choice D) may not address the need for a non-judgmental approach. The key is to prioritize empathy and respect the client's autonomy while addressing their physical needs.