ATI RN
Mental Health Assessment ATI Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 9
A college-aged student and his friend arrive at the student health center. The friend reports that the patient has been having difficulties concentrating, remembering, and thinking. 'He's had quite a few research papers due this past week.' After ruling out other problems, the nurse determines that the patient is experiencing a culture-bound syndrome. Which of the following would the nurse most likely suspect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Brain fog. The symptoms described by the friend, such as difficulties concentrating, remembering, and thinking, are characteristic of brain fog, a common term used to describe cognitive difficulties. This is not specific to any particular culture, making it a more likely explanation compared to the other choices. A: Ataque de nervios is a culture-bound syndrome seen in Latino populations, characterized by symptoms like emotional distress and uncontrollable outbursts, which do not align with the symptoms described in the scenario. C: Mal de ojo is another culture-bound syndrome, known as the evil eye, which is believed to cause harm through a malevolent glare. This does not align with the cognitive difficulties described in the scenario. D: Shenjing shuairo is a culture-bound syndrome in Chinese populations, characterized by physical and psychological symptoms, such as weakness and fatigue, which are not consistent with the cognitive symptoms described in the scenario.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is initiating a group for adolescent girls diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Many of the clients in the group are irritable and resent having to attend. One of them comments, 'This is a stupid waste of time!' Which of the response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You sound irritated; tell me about what is bothering you." This response demonstrates empathy and understanding towards the client's feelings and encourages open communication. By acknowledging the client's emotions and inviting them to express their concerns, the nurse can address the underlying issues causing the negative attitude, helping to build trust and rapport within the group. Choice A is inappropriate as it dismisses the client's feelings and may further alienate them. Choice C is authoritarian and may lead to resistance or defiance. Choice D is confrontational and disrespectful, which can escalate the situation and hinder therapeutic progress.
Question 3 of 9
When a nurse assesses an older adult patient, answers seem vague or unrelated to the questions. The patient also leans forward and frowns, listening intently to the nurse. An appropriate question for the nurse to ask would be
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Are you having difficulty hearing when I speak?" This is the most appropriate question as the patient's leaning forward and frowning could indicate potential hearing difficulties. By asking this question, the nurse can address a possible communication barrier and provide necessary accommodations. Option B, "How can I make this assessment interview easier for you?" is more general and may not directly address the specific issue of hearing difficulty. Option C, "I notice you are frowning. Are you feeling annoyed with me?" assumes the patient's emotions without addressing the potential hearing issue. Option D, "You're having trouble focusing on what I'm saying. What is distracting you?" assumes a focus issue rather than considering hearing impairment.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse is caring for a family with a 3-year-old child who has autism disorders. When developing the teaching plan for the parents, which of the following would the nurse most likely include?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: A structured physical environment is an important aspect. Children with autism disorders often benefit from a structured environment to help them feel safe and secure. This includes having clear routines, visual schedules, and designated spaces for different activities. Providing a structured environment can help reduce anxiety and improve the child's ability to focus and learn. Choice A is incorrect because autism and seizure disorders are not typically directly related. Choice B is incorrect as there is no correlation between autism and higher IQ. Choice C is incorrect as dyslexia is not a common comorbid condition with autism.
Question 5 of 9
A young child is found wandering alone at a mall. A male store employee approaches and asks where her parents are. She responds, 'I don't know. Maybe you will take me home with you?' This sort of response in children may be due to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A lack of bonding as an infant. This response from the child suggests a lack of secure attachment to a caregiver, leading to a sense of insecurity and seeking attachment with anyone present. This behavior is commonly seen in children who have not formed a secure bond with their primary caregiver in early childhood. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a healthy confidence in the child, adequate parental bonding, and normal parenting would not typically lead to a child seeking attachment with a stranger in a situation like this.
Question 6 of 9
A person speaking about a rival for a significant other's affection says in an emotional, syrupy voice, "What a lovely person. That's someone I simply adore." The individual is demonstrating
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: reaction formation. This defense mechanism involves expressing the opposite of what one truly feels to cope with unacceptable emotions. In this scenario, the person outwardly expresses admiration for the rival, masking their true feelings of jealousy or resentment. Repression (B) involves unconsciously blocking out unwanted thoughts or emotions, which is not demonstrated here. Projection (C) involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others, which is not evident in the scenario. Denial (D) is refusing to accept reality, which is also not applicable in this context. The emotional and overly positive expression in the scenario aligns with the concept of reaction formation.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse is leading a group in which members are encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. The group session is just starting when a patient stomps into the room, slams his notebook down on a table, and sits down. His affect is one of anger and hostility. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct response is D: Encourage the patient to discuss his anger with the group. This option promotes open communication, which can help the patient express and process his emotions in a supportive environment. By addressing the anger directly, the nurse can facilitate the patient's emotional expression and potentially uncover underlying issues contributing to his hostility. It also allows the group members to practice empathy and understanding towards the patient's emotions, fostering a sense of community and trust. Option A: Keeping the focus off the patient may lead to avoidance of the issue and hinder potential therapeutic progress. Option B: Suggesting private counseling may be beneficial but does not address the immediate situation or utilize the group dynamic for support. Option C: Asking the patient to leave the group may escalate the situation and could isolate the patient further, potentially exacerbating his anger.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is performing an assessment of a patient with suicidal ideation. Which question would the nurse most likely ask to determine the degree of planning?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Asking "Could you stop yourself from killing yourself?" helps assess the degree of planning as it gauges the patient's ability and intention to prevent the act. Choice A focuses on intent, not planning. Choice B relates to past attempts, not current planning. Choice D addresses distress level, not planning. Thus, C is the best choice for evaluating the patient's current planning regarding suicide.
Question 9 of 9
A parent of a child who is newly diagnosed with ADHD wants to know where to find resources to help her better understand this condition. You are the school nurse where the child is enrolled. What could you suggest to the mother?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Check the ADHD Resource Center for more information. This option is the best choice because the ADHD Resource Center is specifically dedicated to providing resources and information about ADHD. By accessing this center, the parent can find accurate and reliable information to better understand the condition and how to support their child. Option A is not recommended as relying solely on a Google search may lead to misinformation or overwhelming and unreliable sources. Option C is incorrect as early intervention and education are crucial in managing ADHD, so waiting may delay necessary support. Option D is not the most direct or specific resource for ADHD information compared to the ADHD Resource Center.