ATI RN
Aggressive Behavior Nursing Diagnosis Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse assesses a newly admitted patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Which statement is an example of 'attending'?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, option D is an example of 'attending' because it demonstrates active listening and a willingness to provide emotional support. By expressing a desire to sit with the patient, the nurse is showing empathy and creating a therapeutic environment for the patient to feel comfortable opening up. Option A is incorrect because it minimizes the patient's feelings by comparing them to others' stress levels and dismissing the patient's current situation. This response lacks empathy and fails to acknowledge the patient's emotional state. Option B is incorrect as it comes across as confrontational and may make the patient feel defensive. The question seems judgmental and does not convey a sense of understanding or support for the patient's feelings. Option C is incorrect because it focuses solely on the medical aspect of treatment and does not address the patient's emotional needs or provide reassurance. It lacks the human connection necessary for effective therapeutic communication. In the context of nursing care, 'attending' is a crucial component of building a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship. By actively listening, showing empathy, and providing emotional support, nurses can create a safe space for patients to express their thoughts and feelings, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and promoting positive outcomes in mental health treatment.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient with major depressive disorder who has been prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The nurse is teaching the patient about the medication. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In teaching a patient with major depressive disorder about a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it is crucial to include information on the delayed onset of action. Option C, stating that it may take several weeks before feeling the full effects of the medication, is correct. This is important because patients often expect immediate results and may discontinue the medication prematurely if not informed otherwise. Educating patients about the delayed therapeutic effect prepares them for realistic expectations and promotes medication adherence. Option A is incorrect as SSRI medications typically cause initial activation rather than sedation. Option B is irrelevant as the concern with tyramine-containing foods is more associated with MAOIs rather than SSRIs. Option D is incorrect and potentially harmful to suggest stopping the medication once the patient starts feeling better, as abruptly discontinuing an SSRI can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression. Educationally, understanding the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic timeline of SSRI medications is essential for patients to make informed decisions about their treatment and to manage their expectations effectively. By providing accurate information, nurses empower patients to actively participate in their care and enhance treatment outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
A public health nurse is applying for a grant related to suicide prevention. When describing social groups at highest risk, which of the following should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of suicide prevention, it is crucial for public health nurses to understand the social groups at highest risk to effectively target interventions. The correct answer is B) Native American. Native American populations in the United States face unique social, historical, and systemic challenges that contribute to higher rates of suicide compared to other social groups. Factors such as historical trauma, loss of cultural identity, poverty, and limited access to mental health services contribute to their increased risk. Option A) South American, Option C) African American, and Option D) Japanese American are not the groups at highest risk for suicide as indicated in research and epidemiological data. While these groups may also experience disparities in mental health and well-being, the prevalence of suicide is notably higher among Native American populations. For educational context, it is essential for nurses to have a culturally sensitive approach when working with diverse populations to address mental health issues such as suicide. By understanding the specific risk factors and challenges faced by different social groups, nurses can tailor their interventions to be more effective and culturally appropriate, ultimately leading to better outcomes in suicide prevention efforts.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is reviewing assessment findings for a 9-year-old child whose family home was destroyed in a wildfire. The nurse should identify that which of the following behaviors is related to the traumatic experience?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "The child is found making small fires in the backyard," is related to the traumatic experience of the family home being destroyed in a wildfire. This behavior suggests a maladaptive coping mechanism where the child is reenacting or processing the traumatic event through play, potentially indicating unresolved trauma and distress. Option A, "The child insists on having their own way when playing with friends," and option B, "The child is rude to their siblings when things do not go their way," are more indicative of typical behavioral issues in children and do not directly relate to the trauma experienced by the child. Option D, "The child cries because they are the smallest child in their class," does not align with the traumatic event of a wildfire destroying the family home. This behavior may stem from issues related to self-esteem or social comparison but is not specifically linked to the traumatic experience described. In an educational context, understanding how children manifest trauma through their behavior is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to provide appropriate support and interventions. Recognizing these signs can help in early identification and intervention to address the underlying emotional needs of children who have experienced traumatic events.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is in the manic phase. The patient states, 'I don't need any help. I can do everything myself!' Which response is the most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most therapeutic response in this scenario is option C: "I understand you feel capable, but it's important to stay safe." This response acknowledges the patient's feelings of capability while also emphasizing the importance of safety, which is crucial when caring for a patient in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Option A may come across as directive and could potentially trigger defensiveness in the patient, as it tells the patient what they "need" to do. Option B, while promoting the idea of accepting help, does not address the immediate safety concern. Option D, by allowing the patient to believe they can do anything without any boundaries, could potentially enable risky behavior during the manic phase. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to learn therapeutic communication techniques that validate the patient's feelings while also guiding them towards safe and healthy behaviors. Understanding the nuances of communication in mental health settings is crucial for providing effective care and support to patients with bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.