ATI RN
Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A new psychiatric nurse states, This clients use of defense mechanisms should be eliminated. Which is a correct evaluation of this nurses statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to cope with stress, anxiety, and threats to their self-esteem. It is not necessary to eliminate defense mechanisms entirely, as they can serve as adaptive responses to protect oneself in certain situations. While some defense mechanisms can be maladaptive or harmful if used excessively, it is essential to understand that addressing the root causes of the underlying issues that trigger the use of defense mechanisms is more important than simply trying to eradicate them. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and providing appropriate support and interventions can help individuals develop resilience and better ways of managing stress without completely eliminating all defense mechanisms.
Question 2 of 5
Which nursing statement about the concept of psychoses is most accurate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most accurate statement about individuals experiencing psychoses is that they are not based in reality. Psychoses involve a severe mental disorder where the person may have difficulty distinguishing what is real and what is not. This can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. Individuals experiencing psychoses often have a distorted perception of reality, which can lead to behaviors and beliefs that are not grounded in the actual world. It is important to recognize and address these symptoms in order to provide appropriate care and support for individuals with psychoses.
Question 3 of 5
Which is an example of the ego defense mechanism of regression?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The example provided in option A represents the ego defense mechanism of regression. In this scenario, the adult reverting to throwing a temper tantrum when not getting his way is exhibiting a behavior typically associated with children, hence regressing to a more immature response. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development under stress, which can manifest as behavior more typical of a younger age group. In this case, the individual resorts to a tantrum similar to that of a child, showcasing regression as a defense mechanism to cope with the situation.
Question 4 of 5
Most cultures label behavior as mental illness on the basis of which of the following criteria?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Most cultures label behavior as mental illness based on the criteria of incomprehensibility and cultural relativity. Incomprehensibility refers to behaviors that are difficult to understand or explain within the societal or cultural context in which they occur. Cultural relativity means that what is considered normal or acceptable behavior can vary across different cultures. Therefore, behavior that deviates significantly from the cultural norms of a society may be labeled as a mental illness. This understanding emphasizes the importance of considering cultural factors when identifying and defining mental disorders.
Question 5 of 5
How is the DSM-5 useful in the practice of psychiatric nursing? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) is a comprehensive guide that provides criteria for diagnosing mental health disorders. By utilizing the DSM-5, psychiatric nurses can accurately and reliably diagnose their patients, leading to appropriate treatment plans and interventions.