HESI LPN
Mental Health HESI Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A homeless person who is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder is admitted to the mental health unit. Which laboratory finding obtained on admission is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased thyroid stimulating hormone level. Hyperthyroidism causes an increased level of serum thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which inhibit the release of TSH. In this case, a decreased TSH level can indicate hyperthyroidism, which can present with manic behavior. Elevated liver function profile (B) is not directly related to the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Increased white blood cell count (C) typically indicates an infection or inflammation, not directly related to the manic phase. Decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin levels (D) may suggest anemia but are not as crucial in the context of a manic phase of bipolar disorder.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer phenelzine sulfate (Nardil) to a client on the psychiatric unit. Which complaint related to administration of this drug should the nurse expect this client to make?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) "My mouth feels like cotton." This complaint is characteristic of a common side effect of phenelzine sulfate (Nardil) called dry mouth. Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that can cause anticholinergic effects, including dry mouth. This side effect occurs due to the drug's impact on the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to reduced saliva production. Option B) "That medication gives me indigestion" is incorrect because indigestion is not a common complaint associated with phenelzine use. Instead, gastrointestinal side effects like constipation or diarrhea may occur. Option C) "This pill gives me diarrhea" is also incorrect. While gastrointestinal disturbances are possible with phenelzine, diarrhea is not a common complaint. Constipation is a more frequent side effect. Option D) "My urine looks pink" is unrelated to phenelzine sulfate administration and is not a known side effect of this medication. Educationally, understanding common side effects of psychiatric medications like phenelzine is crucial for mental health nurses to anticipate, monitor, and manage potential adverse reactions in patients. This knowledge helps ensure safe medication administration and client well-being.
Question 3 of 5
A 45-year-old female client is admitted to the psychiatric unit for evaluation. Her husband states that she has been reluctant to leave home for the last six months. The client has not gone to work for a month and has been terminated from her job. She has not left the house since that time. This client is displaying symptoms of which disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Agoraphobia. Agoraphobia involves the fear of situations where escape might be difficult, often leading to the individual avoiding public spaces or leaving their home. In this case, the client's reluctance to leave home, not going to work, and staying indoors for an extended period align with the symptoms of agoraphobia. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Claustrophobia is the fear of confined spaces, acrophobia is the fear of heights, and necrophobia is the fear of death or dead things, none of which are consistent with the client's symptoms described in the scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A male employee who is assessed weekly in the employee clinic for blood pressure because of a history of hypertension tells the nurse that he is so upset with one of his co-workers that he would like to shoot him. What action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take first is to determine if the client has a weapon available for use (Option A). This is crucial because the immediate safety of the co-worker and others is a priority. By assessing if the client has access to a weapon, the nurse can gauge the level of risk and take appropriate action to ensure a safe environment. Option B, informing the health care provider of the threat, may be necessary but is not the immediate action to ensure safety. Option C, notifying security, is important but should come after assessing the immediate threat posed by the client. Option D, having the employee escorted to a mental health facility, is premature without first assessing the presence of a weapon and the level of risk. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in mental health nursing practice. Nurses must be prepared to assess and manage potentially dangerous situations to protect the well-being of all individuals involved. Critical thinking and quick decision-making skills are essential in such scenarios to prevent harm and promote a safe environment.
Question 5 of 5
What is the most important goal of care for a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) who has been taking the benzodiazepine alprazolam (Xanax) long-term? The client will:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The most important goal of care for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) taking alprazolam long-term is to ensure they understand the importance of not abruptly stopping the medication. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential complications. Choice A is not the most critical goal as the focus should be on the safe continuation of the medication. Choice C is important but not as crucial as preventing abrupt discontinuation. Choice D is beneficial for overall treatment but not the most important goal in this scenario.