ATI RN
Age Specific Care Competency Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. What is the most important intervention during the refeeding phase?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because during the refeeding phase of anorexia nervosa, monitoring weight gain and providing a structured meal plan are crucial to prevent refeeding syndrome and ensure a safe and gradual increase in caloric intake. This approach helps prevent complications such as electrolyte imbalances and organ dysfunction. Encouraging the patient to eat independently without supervision (B) can be harmful as they may not consume adequate or balanced nutrition. Psychological therapy (C) is important but not the most crucial during the refeeding phase. Offering high-calorie, high-fat foods (D) can lead to rapid weight gain and further complications.
Question 2 of 5
What is an important aspect of managing refeeding syndrome in patients with anorexia nervosa?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring electrolytes closely during refeeding is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications such as electrolyte imbalances. Refeeding syndrome can lead to shifts in electrolytes, particularly phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, which may result in cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory failure, or even death. Close monitoring allows for timely interventions to maintain electrolyte balance. Choice A is incorrect because refeeding a patient with high-calorie foods immediately can actually exacerbate refeeding syndrome by overwhelming the body's metabolic and electrolyte regulation processes. Choice C is incorrect because allowing the patient to eat whatever they want without restrictions can lead to rapid and uncontrolled weight gain, which may worsen medical complications. Choice D is incorrect because restricting fluid intake can also contribute to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration during refeeding.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention for a patient with anorexia nervosa during the refeeding process?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring vital signs and electrolyte levels is crucial during the refeeding process to prevent refeeding syndrome, a potentially life-threatening complication. This intervention ensures early detection of any electrolyte imbalances or cardiac complications that may arise as the body readjusts to increased food intake. Encouraging physical activity (A) can be harmful due to the patient's compromised state. Offering high-calorie snacks (C) may lead to rapid weight gain and increase the risk of refeeding syndrome. Focusing on body image concerns (D) is important but should not take precedence over addressing the patient's immediate medical needs.
Question 4 of 5
The mother of a 2-year-old tells the nurse at the well-child clinic that her child likes to take a blanket wherever he goes. The mother asks if she should take the blanket away from the child. The nurse counsels the mother to allow the child to have the blanket because it reminds him of his mother and comforts him. The basis for this counseling is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mahler's theory of object relations. Mahler's theory focuses on the development of a child's sense of self and relationships. In the scenario provided, the child's attachment to the blanket can be seen as a transitional object, which is a source of comfort and security, similar to the mother. This concept aligns with Mahler's theory that objects like blankets can serve as symbols of the mother and aid in the child's emotional development. Incorrect choices: B: Freud's developmental theory primarily focuses on psychosexual stages of development, which do not directly address the use of transitional objects. C: Kernberg's conceptualization of object constancy pertains to personality disorders and the ability to maintain stable relationships, not the use of transitional objects. D: Sullivan's theory of 'good me' is centered around interpersonal relationships and self-esteem, which are not directly related to the use of transitional objects in early childhood development.
Question 5 of 5
A patient remanded by the court after his wife had him jailed for battery told the judge how sorry he was and suggested he needed psychiatric help. His history reveals acting-out behaviors as an adolescent and several adult arrests. The nurse interviews him about his relationship with his wife. Which statement by the patient is most consistent with a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it demonstrates a lack of remorse, empathy, and justification for violent behavior, which are key characteristics of antisocial personality disorder. The statement indicates a pattern of blaming others for his actions and a sense of entitlement to use violence as a means of control. Choice A is incorrect because it shows acknowledgment of past mistakes and a willingness to learn from them, which is not typical of individuals with antisocial personality disorder. Choice B is incorrect as it reflects genuine regret and concern for the impact of his actions, which is inconsistent with the disorder. Choice C is incorrect because it implies an ability to control his temper, whereas individuals with antisocial personality disorder often struggle with impulsivity and aggression.