ATI RN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A family member is seeking advice about an elderly parent who seems to worry unnecessarily about everything. The family member states, Should I seek psychiatric help for my mother? Which is an appropriate nursing reply?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides a clear and accurate explanation of when anxiety is considered abnormal. It states that anxiety is abnormal when it is out of proportion to the stimulus causing it and when it impairs functioning. This response shows understanding of the situation and suggests seeking professional help based on specific criteria. Choice A is incorrect as it dismisses the concerns as part of the aging process without addressing the possibility of abnormal anxiety. Choice C is incorrect as it jumps to the conclusion of seeking psychiatric help without evaluating the level of anxiety or impairment. Choice D is incorrect as it oversimplifies anxiety treatment by suggesting it can only be treated with medications, ignoring the importance of therapy and other interventions.
Question 2 of 5
A client is prescribed alprazolam (Xanax) for acute anxiety. What client history should cause a nurse to question this order?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: History of alcohol dependence. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine and can be addictive, especially for individuals with a history of substance abuse like alcohol dependence. This client population is at higher risk for misuse, addiction, and overdose. It is important for the nurse to question this order to avoid potential harm. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly impact the safety or efficacy of alprazolam for acute anxiety.
Question 3 of 5
A client is taking chlordiazepoxide (Librium) for generalized anxiety disorder symptoms. In which situation should a nurse recognize that this client is at greatest risk for drug overdose?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: When the client combines the drug with alcohol. Combining chlordiazepoxide with alcohol can potentiate the central nervous system depression effects, leading to respiratory depression, sedation, and potential overdose. Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of chlordiazepoxide, increasing the risk of overdose. A, C, and D are incorrect because a knowledge deficit, taking the drug on an empty stomach, or failing to follow dietary restrictions are not directly related to increasing the risk of drug overdose in this specific scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder is most likely to exhibit which personality disorder characteristics?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because individuals with somatic symptom disorder often display characteristics of heightened emotionality, seductiveness, and strong dependency needs. These traits are consistent with histrionic personality disorder, which is commonly comorbid with somatic symptom disorder. Choice A (splitting and manipulation) is more indicative of borderline personality disorder. Choice B (socially irresponsible, exploitative) aligns with antisocial personality disorder. Choice D (uncomfortable in social situations) is more in line with schizoid or avoidant personality disorder. Thus, choice C is the most appropriate match for individuals with somatic symptom disorder.
Question 5 of 5
An inpatient client is newly diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) stemming from severe childhood sexual abuse. Which nursing intervention takes priority?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Establish trust and rapport. This is the priority because building a therapeutic relationship is essential for effective treatment of DID. Trust and rapport are foundational for the client to feel safe and supported in exploring and processing traumatic experiences. Encouraging exploration of sexual abuse (Option A) may be overwhelming and retraumatizing without a solid therapeutic alliance. Guided imagery (Option B) might not be appropriate at this stage as the client needs to establish trust first. Administering antianxiety medications (Option D) alone does not address the root cause or provide the necessary support for the client's complex trauma history.