ATI RN
Nclex Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client's husband is visiting his wife during visiting hours. A nurse walking by hears him verbally abuse the client. Which nursing response is appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because reminding the client's husband of the unit rules is the appropriate nursing response in this situation. This action sets clear boundaries and addresses the inappropriate behavior directly. Asking the client to ask her husband to leave (Option A) puts the burden on the client and may escalate the situation. Asking the husband to come to the nurse's station (Option C) may not address the immediate need to address the abusive behavior. Sitting with the client and her husband to discuss anger issues (Option D) is not appropriate at this time as it does not address the immediate need to stop the verbal abuse.
Question 2 of 5
A patient says, "People should be allowed to commit suicide without interference from others." A nurse replies, "You're wrong. Nothing is bad enough to justify death." What is the best analysis of this interchange?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Identify the conflicting viewpoints - The patient believes in the right to die, while the nurse opposes this view. Step 2: Analyze the underlying values - The patient prioritizes autonomy, while the nurse emphasizes the sanctity of life. Step 3: Evaluate the correctness of each viewpoint - Both perspectives have validity based on individual values and beliefs. Step 4: Determine the best analysis - Choice D, "Differing values are reflected in the two statements," is correct as it acknowledges the clash of values without dismissing either perspective.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with multi-infarct dementia lashes out and kicks at people who walk past in the hall of a skilled nursing facility. Intervention by the nurse should begin by
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because reassuring the patient that the environment is safe can help reduce their feelings of anxiety or fear, which may be causing the aggressive behavior. This approach focuses on creating a calming and supportive atmosphere, which is essential in managing challenging behaviors in dementia patients. A: Gently touching the patient's arm may escalate the situation and provoke a negative response. B: Asking the patient 'What do you need?' may not address the underlying cause of the behavior and could be perceived as confrontational. D: Directing the patient to cease the behavior may be seen as threatening and could lead to further aggression.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is providing in-home mental health care and determines that the care was effective when the patient demonstrated which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a decrease in admission frequency to inpatient psychiatric hospitals indicates improved mental health stability and reduced need for acute care. This outcome shows that the in-home mental health care has been effective in managing the patient's condition. A: Need for continued intensive monitoring in the home suggests ongoing high risk and lack of progress. B: Need for crisis intervention services on an ongoing basis indicates persistent instability and inability to manage symptoms effectively. D: Dependence on parents to participate in care may imply lack of independence and personal growth in managing one's mental health.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is prescribed medication for a psychiatric disorder. After 3 days, the patient tells the nurse that he or she has been constipated. Which instruction would the nurse give the patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because constipation is a common side effect of psychiatric medications, often due to decreased gastrointestinal motility. Eating more fruits and vegetables and drinking more water can help alleviate constipation by increasing fiber intake and hydration. Option A is incorrect as high-protein foods can worsen constipation. Option C is unnecessary as dietary adjustments should be tried first. Option D is incorrect as constipation may persist and needs active management.