ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nurse Certification Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse driving home after work comes upon a serious automobile accident. The driver gets out of the car with no apparent physical injuries. Which assessment findings would the nurse expect from the driver immediately after this event? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Difficulty using a cell phone. After a serious automobile accident, the driver may experience shock or disorientation, affecting fine motor skills and cognitive function. This can result in difficulty using a cell phone. Long-term memory losses (B) are not immediate post-accident symptoms. Fecal incontinence (C) is not a common immediate response to an accident. Rapid speech (D) is more likely a sign of anxiety or stress, but not necessarily an immediate effect of the accident. Therefore, the most likely finding would be difficulty using a cell phone due to shock or disorientation.
Question 2 of 5
During a support group, a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "Sometimes I feel sad that I will never have a good job like my brother. Then I dwell on it and maybe I should not." Select the nurse leader's best comment to facilitate discussion of this issue.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it encourages sharing experiences within the group, promoting peer support and empathy. This approach validates the patient's feelings and helps them feel understood. Choice A could be seen as minimizing the patient's emotions. Choice C might suggest that feeling sad is solely due to the mental disorder. Choice D could lead to assumptions and may not address the patient's specific concerns effectively. Overall, choice B fosters a supportive and engaging environment for discussing difficult emotions.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is requesting information about assisted death (euthanasia). Understanding the ethical considerations of assisted death, what does the nurse know?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Nurses should advocate for their clients regardless of their own personal beliefs. In the context of assisted death, also known as euthanasia, the nurse's primary ethical responsibility is to advocate for the client's autonomy and right to self-determination. This means supporting the client in making informed decisions about their care, including end-of-life choices, even if the nurse personally disagrees with those choices. Option A is incorrect because assisted death laws vary by country and jurisdiction, and it is not universally accepted or legally executed everywhere. Option C is incorrect because while nurses should respect their clients' autonomy, they must also consider legal and ethical boundaries, including assessing the client's decision-making capacity and ensuring that all other options for comfort and care have been explored. Option D is incorrect because the decision for assisted death should involve a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that considers the impact on the client's family, the healthcare team, and broader ethical considerations. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice when navigating complex end-of-life care decisions like assisted death. Nurses must be prepared to provide compassionate, non-judgmental care while upholding professional standards and legal regulations. Advocating for the client's best interests and supporting them in their decision-making process is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice in behavioral health and end-of-life care.
Question 4 of 5
How might abuse and violence impact an individual emotionally?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of behavioral health, understanding the emotional impact of abuse and violence on individuals is crucial for nurses. Option C, increased fear and trauma, is the correct answer. Abuse and violence can lead to a range of emotional consequences such as fear, trauma, anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These experiences can deeply affect an individual's mental health and well-being, leading to long-lasting emotional scars and challenges. Option A, improved self-esteem, is incorrect as abuse and violence typically lower self-esteem due to feelings of powerlessness and worthlessness instilled by the traumatic experiences. Option B, reduced anxiety, is also incorrect as abuse and violence often heighten anxiety levels due to the constant threat and stress associated with such experiences. Option D, enhanced trust in others, is not the correct answer either, as abuse and violence can severely impact an individual's ability to trust others, leading to issues in forming and maintaining relationships. In an educational context, nurses need to recognize the complex emotional toll that abuse and violence can have on individuals to provide appropriate care and support. By understanding the psychological effects of trauma, nurses can better assess, intervene, and advocate for those who have experienced abuse or violence, ultimately promoting healing and recovery in behavioral health settings.
Question 5 of 5
Which one of the following is a result of federal legislation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Commitment laws changed in the early 1970s, making it more difficult to commit people for mental health treatment against their will. Deinstitutionalization accomplished the release of individuals from long-term stays in state institutions. Deinstitutionalization also had negative effects in that some mentally ill persons are subjected to the revolving door effect, which may limit care for mentally ill persons.