ATI RN
Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client has experienced the death of a close family member and at the same time becomes unemployed. This situation has resulted in a 6-month score of 110 on the Recent Life Changes naire. How should the nurse evaluate this client data?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A score of 110 on the Recent Life Changes Questionnaire indicates a high level of stress due to significant life events such as the death of a close family member and loss of employment simultaneously. This level of stress can place the client at risk for physical and psychological illness. It is important for the nurse to evaluate and address this distress promptly to prevent further negative consequences on the client's health and well-being.
Question 2 of 5
A nursing instructor is asking students about diseases of adaptation and when they are likely to occur. Which student response indicates that learning has occurred?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Diseases of adaptation occur when an individual's physiological and psychological resources become depleted. These diseases are a result of the body's inability to adapt to stressors and can manifest in various forms such as chronic illness, anxiety disorders, or depression. When an individual's coping mechanisms are overwhelmed and their resources are exhausted, they are more likely to experience diseases of adaptation. This response indicates that the student understands the concept that these diseases are related to an individual's decreased ability to effectively handle stress.
Question 3 of 5
A client who experiences stress on a regular basis asks a nurse what causes these feelings. Which is the most appropriate nursing response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate nursing response is B: How you reacted to past experiences influences how you feel now. This response highlights the concept of cognitive appraisal, where an individual's interpretation of past experiences can influence their current stress levels. By acknowledging the role of past experiences and reactions, the nurse can help the client understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and stress responses. This response empowers the client to explore their coping mechanisms and cognitive patterns to better manage stress in the future. It also opens up the opportunity for further discussion and guidance on healthier coping strategies and stress management techniques.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing occasional feelings of sadness because of the recent death of a beloved pet. The clients appetite, sleep patterns, and daily routine have not changed. How should the nurse interpret the clients behaviors?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The nurse should interpret the client's behaviors as demonstrating no functional impairment, indicating no mental illness. The client is experiencing occasional feelings of sadness, which can be considered a normal reaction to the recent death of a beloved pet. The fact that the client's appetite, sleep patterns, and daily routine have not changed suggests that the client is still able to function effectively in their daily life. It is important for the nurse to assess the situation holistically and consider the context of the client's grief before jumping to conclusions about mental illness.
Question 5 of 5
A new psychiatric nurse states, This clients use of defense mechanisms should be eliminated. Which is a correct evaluation of this nurses statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to cope with stress, anxiety, and threats to their self-esteem. It is not necessary to eliminate defense mechanisms entirely, as they can serve as adaptive responses to protect oneself in certain situations. While some defense mechanisms can be maladaptive or harmful if used excessively, it is essential to understand that addressing the root causes of the underlying issues that trigger the use of defense mechanisms is more important than simply trying to eradicate them. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and providing appropriate support and interventions can help individuals develop resilience and better ways of managing stress without completely eliminating all defense mechanisms.