ATI LPN
ATI Mental Health Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A healthcare professional is assessing a patient with anorexia nervosa. Which finding is most concerning?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Electrolyte imbalances. In anorexia nervosa, electrolyte imbalances can lead to serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias and even sudden death. This is the most concerning finding as it directly impacts the patient's health and can be life-threatening. Bradycardia (choice A) is common in anorexia but usually reversible with treatment. Slight hypotension (choice C) may occur due to dehydration but can be managed. Lanugo (choice D) is a reversible side effect of malnutrition and not as concerning as electrolyte imbalances.
Question 2 of 5
Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because excessive worrying about various aspects of life is a core symptom of GAD. This persistent and uncontrollable worry is disproportionate to the actual events or situations. Fear of social situations (A) is common in social anxiety disorder, not GAD. Hallucinations (C) are not typically associated with GAD. Impulsive behaviors (D) are more indicative of conditions like ADHD or impulse control disorders.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Consistency in medication timing helps maintain a steady blood level for effectiveness. 2. Following a regular schedule improves adherence and reduces the risk of missing doses. 3. Ensures optimal therapeutic effects and minimizes potential side effects. 4. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as stopping abruptly, mixing with alcohol, or taking as needed can lead to relapse, reduced efficacy, or increased risk of side effects.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is receiving education about dietary restrictions while taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Which food should the patient avoid?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Aged cheese. MAOIs interact with tyramine in certain foods like aged cheese, leading to dangerous hypertensive crisis. Aged cheese contains high levels of tyramine, which can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure when combined with MAOIs. Fresh vegetables (B), grilled chicken (C), and fruit juices (D) do not have high levels of tyramine and can be safely consumed with MAOIs. It is crucial for patients taking MAOIs to avoid foods rich in tyramine to prevent adverse reactions.
Question 5 of 5
Which therapeutic communication technique is being used when the nurse says, 'Tell me more about what you are feeling right now'?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Exploration. This therapeutic communication technique encourages the patient to expand on their feelings, promoting exploration of thoughts and emotions. By asking the patient to elaborate on their feelings, the nurse facilitates deeper understanding. Restating (A) involves repeating the patient's words back to them. Clarification (B) is seeking to understand the patient's meaning. Reflection (C) involves mirroring the patient's emotions. In this scenario, the nurse is prompting the patient to delve further into their emotions, making exploration the most appropriate technique.