ATI RN
Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia becomes agitated when asked to play a game. The client responds, Do you want to be my girlfriend? Which nursing response is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Option B, "Remember, we have a professional relationship. Are you feeling uncomfortable?" is the most appropriate nursing response in this scenario. This response addresses the client's statement in a respectful and non-confrontational manner while also setting clear boundaries regarding the professional nature of the relationship. It acknowledges the client's feelings without encouraging inappropriate behavior or engaging in a romantic dialogue. Setting boundaries is important in therapeutic relationships, especially with clients who may be experiencing delusions or disorganized thinking due to conditions such as paranoid schizophrenia. By gently redirecting the conversation and reminding the client of the boundaries in the therapeutic relationship, the nurse can help maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for both the client and themselves.
Question 2 of 5
The nurseclient therapeutic relationship includes which of the following characteristics? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: C. Promoting client insight into problematic behavior: This is an essential characteristic of the nurse-client therapeutic relationship as it involves helping the client gain understanding and awareness of their maladaptive behaviors, thoughts, or patterns. By promoting client insight, the nurse can support the client in making positive changes and progress towards improved mental health.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse states to a client, Things will look better tomorrow after a good nights sleep. This is an example of which communication technique?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The statement "Things will look better tomorrow after a good night's sleep" falls under the nontherapeutic technique of giving false reassurance. This is because it offers comfort without any real basis for such a promise. It can minimize the client's feelings and concerns by implying that sleep alone will solve their problems. Providing false reassurance can hinder open communication, trust, and the client's ability to address their emotions and issues effectively. In therapeutic communication, it's important to acknowledge the client's feelings and offer support without providing guarantees that may not be true.
Question 4 of 5
After assertiveness training, a formerly passive client appropriately confronts a peer in group therapy. The group leader states, Im so proud of you for being assertive. You are so good! Which communication technique has the leader employed?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The leader's statement, "I'm so proud of you for being assertive. You are so good," involves giving approval, which is a nontherapeutic communication technique. Giving approval can create a dynamic in which the client seeks validation and approval from the leader rather than focusing on their own growth and progress. In a therapeutic setting, it is essential for the leader to maintain a neutral and nonjudgmental stance, providing support and guidance without reinforcing dependency on external validation.
Question 5 of 5
A mother rescues two of her four children from a house fire. In an emergency department, she cries, I should have gone back in to get them. I should have died, not them. Which of the following responses by the nurse is an example of reflection?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Option B is an example of reflection because it involves the nurse acknowledging the mother's feelings of guilt and linking them to her perceived failure to save all her children. Reflection involves mirroring back the thoughts and feelings of the individual to help them process their emotions and make sense of their experiences. It shows empathy and understanding towards the mother's internal struggles. This response allows the mother to explore her emotions and work through her feelings of guilt in a supportive and non-judgmental way.