ATI RN
Behavioral Theory of Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a bipolar disorder exhibits manic behavior. The nursing diagnosis is Disturbed thought processes related to difficulty concentrating, secondary to flight of ideas. Which of the following outcome criteria would indicate improvement in the client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The client speaks in coherent sentences. Improvement in disturbed thought processes due to flight of ideas in bipolar disorder is indicated by the client speaking in coherent sentences, demonstrating improved concentration and organization of thoughts. Verbalizing feelings directly (choice A) may not directly relate to improved thought processes. Positive "self" statements (choice B) may reflect self-esteem but do not address the issue of thought processes. Reporting feeling calmer (choice D) is too general and does not specifically address the improvement in thought processes.
Question 2 of 5
When providing family therapy, the nurse analyzes the functioning of healthy family systems. Which situations would not increase stress on a healthy family system?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Parental disagreement. In a healthy family system, open communication and conflict resolution are key. Parental disagreement is a common occurrence and can be addressed constructively without significantly increasing stress. On the other hand, choices A, B, and C involve significant life transitions that can potentially disrupt the equilibrium of a healthy family system, leading to increased stress. Adolescence going away to college, the birth of a child, and the death of a grandparent are all events that can bring about changes and adjustments within the family dynamics, potentially causing stress.
Question 3 of 5
A client with panic disorder experiences an acute attack while the nurse is completing an admission assessment. List the following interventions according to their level of priority.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Remain with the client. This is the highest priority as it provides immediate support and reassurance, helping to prevent harm and promote safety during the panic attack. Choice B (Encourage physical activity) may worsen symptoms, choice C (Encourage low, deep breathing) may not be effective during an acute attack, and choice D (Reduce external stimuli) may not address the immediate need for support and reassurance.
Question 4 of 5
The parents of a young man with schizophrenia express feelings of responsibility and guilt for their son's problems. How can the nurse best educate the family?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Explain the biological nature of schizophrenia. This option educates the family about the genetic and neurological factors contributing to schizophrenia, reducing feelings of guilt and responsibility. It promotes understanding that the disorder is not caused by parenting. Choice A is incorrect because acknowledging the parents' responsibility can exacerbate their guilt. Choice C is incorrect as solely referring to a support group may not address the underlying issue of guilt. Choice D is incorrect as it may imply that the parents are at fault and need to change, perpetuating feelings of guilt.
Question 5 of 5
Which nursing statement is a good example of the therapeutic communication technique of focusing?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it demonstrates the therapeutic communication technique of focusing by redirecting the conversation back to a specific topic, the relationship with the father. This helps the client explore their thoughts and feelings on a particular issue in depth. Choice A is incorrect as it does not focus on a specific topic. Choice B is incorrect as it does not guide the conversation towards a particular subject. Choice C is incorrect as it does not involve redirecting the conversation to a specific issue for exploration.