ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A cab driver stuck in traffic is suddenly lightheaded, tremulous, and diaphoretic and experiences tachycardia and dyspnea. An extensive workup in an emergency department reveals no pathology. Which medical diagnosis is suspected, and what nursing diagnosis takes priority?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The presentation of sudden lightheadedness, tremulousness, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and dyspnea in a cab driver stuck in traffic with normal test results in an emergency department suggests a panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks, leading to intense fear and discomfort. The symptoms described align with a panic attack, which can mimic physical conditions.
Question 2 of 5
A client is newly diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder and spends 45 minutes folding clothes and rearranging them in drawers. Which nursing intervention would best address this clients problem?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention to address the client's obsessive-compulsive behavior of folding clothes and rearranging them in drawers for an extended period is to discuss the anxiety-provoking triggers that precipitate the ritualistic behaviors. By identifying and understanding the triggers that lead to the compulsive behavior, the client and the healthcare team can work on more effective coping strategies and interventions to manage the anxiety and reduce the compulsive behaviors. This approach focuses on addressing the root cause of the behavior rather than just attempting to distract or control the client's actions. Additionally, this intervention promotes communication, self-awareness, and collaborative problem-solving between the client and the healthcare team to promote long-term management of obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Question 3 of 5
A client has the following symptoms: preoccupation with imagined defect, verbalizations that are out of proportion to actual physical abnormalities, and numerous visits to plastic surgeons to seek relief. Which nursing diagnosis would best describe the problems evidenced by these symptoms?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The symptoms described in the client, such as preoccupation with imagined defect, verbalizations out of proportion to actual physical abnormalities, and numerous visits to plastic surgeons, are indicative of a disturbed body image. The client's perception of their physical appearance is distorted, leading to a preoccupation with perceived flaws and seeking multiple interventions to alleviate this distress. The nursing diagnosis of Disturbed body image is appropriate in this case as it reflects the client's altered self-perception and negative feelings related to their physical appearance. Ineffective coping, complicated grieving, and panic anxiety may also be present but are not the primary concern based on the symptoms provided.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is discussing treatment options with a client whose life has been negatively impacted by claustrophobia. The nurse would expect which of the following behavioral therapies to be most commonly used in the treatment of phobias? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the treatment of phobias, especially claustrophobia, the most commonly used behavioral therapy is systematic desensitization. This therapy involves gradually exposing the individual to the feared object or situation in a controlled manner while teaching relaxation techniques. Systematic desensitization helps the individual overcome their phobia by replacing the anxiety response with a relaxation response, thereby reducing the fear associated with the phobic stimulus. Regarding the other options: A) Benzodiazepine therapy is a pharmacological intervention that may help manage anxiety symptoms in the short term, but it does not address the root cause of the phobia and is not a recommended primary treatment for phobias. C) Imploding (flooding) involves exposing the individual to the most feared aspect of the phobia all at once. While this can be effective for some individuals, it can also be overwhelming and traumatic, making it less commonly used compared to systematic desensitization. D) Assertiveness training focuses on helping individuals communicate effectively and set boundaries, which can be beneficial in various situations but is not a primary treatment for phobias. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind choosing systematic desensitization over other options highlights the importance of evidence-based practices in treating phobias. It emphasizes the role of gradual exposure and relaxation techniques in helping individuals overcome their fears in a safe and structured manner, promoting long-lasting positive outcomes in managing phobias.
Question 5 of 5
Which would be considered an appropriate outcome when planning care for an inpatient client diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder?
Correct Answer:
Rationale: In the context of planning care for a client diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder, the appropriate outcomes would focus on addressing the client's physical symptoms and the underlying psychological distress causing them. It would not be appropriate to set a goal for the client to admit to fabricating symptoms, as this could be counterproductive and may not align with therapeutic goals for managing the symptoms and improving overall well-being. Instead, goals may involve helping the client understand and manage their symptoms, improving coping strategies, addressing underlying psychological factors contributing to the symptoms, and promoting overall mental health and quality of life.