ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
A hospitalized patient who has been taking an antipsychotic medication for 2 weeks begins pacing and walking throughout the unit. He tells the nurse that he 'cannot sit still.' The nurse documents this finding as which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Akathisia. Akathisia is a common extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by an inner restlessness and an inability to sit still. In this scenario, the patient's symptoms of pacing and walking throughout the unit, along with feeling like he 'cannot sit still,' align with the definition of akathisia. A: Akinesia refers to a lack of movement and is not consistent with the patient's hyperactivity. B: Dystonia presents with sustained muscle contractions, causing abnormal postures or repetitive movements. C: Pseudoparkinsonism manifests as symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors and rigidity, which are not present in the patient's case.
Question 2 of 5
While interviewing a patient, a nurse asks, 'What do you do when you get angry?' Which patient response would indicate to the nurse that the patient engages in anger suppression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because withdrawing and pouting about the problem indicates a passive-aggressive behavior associated with anger suppression. This response suggests that the patient avoids direct confrontation and attempts to mask their anger by withdrawing and internalizing their emotions. A: "I've been known to fly off the handle when I'm angry." - This response indicates explosive anger expression, not suppression. C: "I usually approach the person directly to talk about it." - This response suggests open communication, not suppression. D: "I try to discuss how I'm feeling about it with a close friend." - This response implies seeking support and emotional expression, not suppression.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Based on the nurse's understanding of this disorder, the nurse develops a plan of care to address which issue as the top priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicide. Schizoaffective disorder is associated with an increased risk of suicide. Addressing suicide prevention is the top priority to ensure the client's safety. Suicide risk assessment and intervention are crucial in managing this disorder. Aggression (B), substance abuse (C), and eating disorder (D) may also be present but addressing suicide takes precedence due to the high risk associated with this disorder.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The nurse has instructed the client about using the communication triad. The nurse determines that the client has understood this technique when he states which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. "I should start by stating my feelings as an 'I' statement" is correct because using 'I' statements helps the client express their feelings without blaming others. 2. By starting with their own feelings, the client takes ownership of their emotions and promotes effective communication. 3. This approach also helps in avoiding conflict and promotes empathy and understanding between the client and the other person. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because starting with describing the situation may lead to blaming or accusing the other person. - Option C is incorrect because starting with what the client wants to change may come across as demanding or aggressive. - Option D is incorrect because starting with what triggered the emotion may focus on external factors rather than the client's feelings.
Question 5 of 5
A client with a mental disorder is being discharged from the inpatient unit. During the client's stay in the hospital, the client eventually was able to get an adequate night's sleep even though the client had experienced chronic insomnia over the years. The client's spouse asks the nurse what the family can do in the client's home environment to promote healthy sleep. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is C: "Remember to keep stimulating activities at a minimum before he goes to bed." This is the correct answer because engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime can disrupt sleep. It is essential to create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep patterns. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the importance of avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime or promoting a calming environment for sleep. Option A puts the responsibility solely on the client, missing the opportunity for the family to support healthy sleep habits. Option B suggests alcohol consumption before bed, which can negatively impact sleep quality. Option D recommends a spicy snack and tea before bed, which can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep. Ultimately, choice C is the best option as it focuses on creating a conducive environment for restful sleep.