ATI RN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a hospitalized client who is quarrelsome and opinionated and has little regard for others. According to Sullivans interpersonal theory, the nurse should associate the clients behaviors with a previous deficit in which stage of development?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: According to Sullivan's interpersonal theory, childhood is the stage where the foundation of interpersonal relationships is formed. Quarrelsome and opinionated behaviors with little regard for others can be associated with deficits in early childhood development. During this stage, individuals learn emotional regulation, empathy, and social skills. If these skills are not adequately developed in childhood, it can result in maladaptive behaviors in adulthood. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B, early adolescence, focuses more on identity formation and peer relationships. Choice C, late adolescence, emphasizes the transition to adulthood and independence. Choice D, infancy, is too early in development to have a significant impact on the client's current behavior.
Question 2 of 5
From an interpersonal theory perspective, which intervention would a nurse use to assist a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because family therapy sessions can help address underlying family dynamics contributing to the client's depression. This intervention aligns with interpersonal theory, which focuses on improving relationships and communication within the client's social network. Family therapy can enhance support systems and promote healthier interactions. Option B is incorrect as discussing childhood events may not directly address current interpersonal difficulties. Option C, teaching coping skills, is helpful but may not target the interpersonal issues specific to major depressive disorder. Option D, encouraging discussion of feelings, is important but may not address the broader interpersonal dynamics impacting the client's condition.
Question 3 of 5
Which client statement reflects an understanding of the effect of circadian rhythms on a person?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the client statement "I'm a morning person. I get my best work done in the a.m." reflects an understanding of circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the body's internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and influences energy levels and productivity throughout the day. Being a morning person indicates that this individual's peak productivity aligns with their body's natural circadian rhythm, which typically results in better performance during the morning hours. Choice A is incorrect as it relates to a traumatic dream triggering hysteria, not circadian rhythms. Choice B is incorrect as it mentions experiencing sadness in February, which is more likely related to seasonal affective disorder rather than circadian rhythms.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse concludes that a restless, agitated client is manifesting a fight-or-flight response. The nurse should associate this response with which neurotransmitter?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Norepinephrine. During the fight-or-flight response, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the release of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine increases heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, preparing the body to either fight or flee from a perceived threat. Dopamine (A) is more related to reward and pleasure. Serotonin (B) is involved in regulating mood and emotions. Cortisol (D) is a stress hormone, not a neurotransmitter involved in the fight-or-flight response.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse understands that the abnormal secretion of growth hormone may play a role in which illness?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anorexia nervosa. Growth hormone abnormalities can contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa by affecting metabolism and body composition. Increased levels of growth hormone can lead to muscle wasting and weight loss, which are common symptoms of anorexia nervosa. In contrast, schizophrenia is primarily associated with neurotransmitter imbalances, Alzheimer's disease is linked to neurodegeneration, and diabetes is often related to insulin abnormalities.