ATI RN
Mental Health Exam 1 Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient with a psychiatric illness. The nurse interprets which patient statement as reflecting the concept of cognitive triad?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it reflects the cognitive triad, a concept in cognitive therapy. The patient is displaying negative beliefs about themselves (I always mess things up), the world (my whole world is a mess), and the future (my future will be a big mess). This pattern of negative thinking about oneself, the world, and the future is characteristic of the cognitive triad. Choice B is incorrect because it describes someone else (the sister) and does not reflect the patient's negative self-view. Choice C is incorrect as it describes the bosses and not the patient's own thoughts. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a superstitious belief about bad things happening in threes, which is unrelated to the cognitive triad.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is working as part of a community disaster response team. When responding to a community disaster, the nurse integrates understanding of individuals'responses, anticipating which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: People can become aggressive and violent when their basic needs are threatened. In a disaster situation, individuals may experience fear, stress, and uncertainty, leading to heightened emotions and potential aggression. This response is a natural survival instinct when basic needs such as safety, shelter, and food are threatened. Anticipating this response allows the nurse to prepare for managing potential conflicts and ensuring the safety of both victims and responders. Choices B and C are incorrect because people involved in a disaster may prioritize their own survival and well-being before helping others, depending on the situation. Losses incurred during a disaster can have significant long-term effects on victims, such as trauma, grief, and financial hardship. Choice D is incorrect because the psychological distress associated with disasters may not always be immediately felt, as some individuals may initially be in a state of shock or disbelief before processing their emotions.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse makes a home visit to a client who has dysthymic disorder. Which of the following would the nurse expect to assess?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Low energy. Dysthymic disorder is characterized by persistent low mood, which often leads to decreased energy levels. Individuals with dysthymic disorder may experience fatigue, lack of motivation, and difficulty engaging in activities. Intense concentration (B) is not typically associated with dysthymic disorder, as individuals may have difficulty focusing due to their low energy and mood. Agitation (C) is more commonly seen in conditions such as anxiety disorders, rather than dysthymic disorder. Normal appetite (D) may or may not be present in individuals with dysthymic disorder, as appetite changes can vary among individuals.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is developing a teaching plan for a client with an impulse-control disorder. The nurse is planning to explain the emotional aspects associated with the behavior as part of the plan. Which of the following would the nurse describe as occurring first before the individual commits the act?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tension. In impulse-control disorders, the individual typically experiences increasing tension or anxiety before engaging in impulsive behavior. This tension builds up and leads to a sense of urgency to act, overriding rational decision-making. This initial tension is a key emotional aspect that precedes the impulsive act. Remorse (choice A) and regret (choice C) occur after the act, as the individual reflects on their actions. Pleasure (choice D) is experienced during or after the impulsive behavior, but it is not the first emotional aspect that occurs. Therefore, understanding and addressing the tension is crucial in managing impulse control disorders.
Question 5 of 5
A female client is diagnosed with female orgasmic disorder and is receiving treatment by a qualified sex therapist. The client and her partner are being taught sensate focus. Which of the following would the couple be required to do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Participate in nongenital contact. This is the first step in sensate focus, a technique used to treat female orgasmic disorder. Initially, the couple focuses on non-sexual touching to build intimacy and reduce performance pressure. Option A is incorrect as sexual intercourse is not the initial focus. Option B is incorrect as genital touching is also not the first step. Option D is incorrect as masturbation is not typically part of sensate focus exercises between partners.