A nurse is leading a group in which members are encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. The group session is just starting when a patient stomps into the room, slams his notebook down on a table, and sits down. His affect is one of anger and hostility. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

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Mental Health Assessment ATI Capstone Questions

Question 1 of 5

A nurse is leading a group in which members are encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. The group session is just starting when a patient stomps into the room, slams his notebook down on a table, and sits down. His affect is one of anger and hostility. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct response is D: Encourage the patient to discuss his anger with the group. This option promotes open communication, which can help the patient express and process his emotions in a supportive environment. By addressing the anger directly, the nurse can facilitate the patient's emotional expression and potentially uncover underlying issues contributing to his hostility. It also allows the group members to practice empathy and understanding towards the patient's emotions, fostering a sense of community and trust. Option A: Keeping the focus off the patient may lead to avoidance of the issue and hinder potential therapeutic progress. Option B: Suggesting private counseling may be beneficial but does not address the immediate situation or utilize the group dynamic for support. Option C: Asking the patient to leave the group may escalate the situation and could isolate the patient further, potentially exacerbating his anger.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse is performing an assessment of a patient with suicidal ideation. Which question would the nurse most likely ask to determine the degree of planning?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Asking "Could you stop yourself from killing yourself?" helps assess the degree of planning as it gauges the patient's ability and intention to prevent the act. Choice A focuses on intent, not planning. Choice B relates to past attempts, not current planning. Choice D addresses distress level, not planning. Thus, C is the best choice for evaluating the patient's current planning regarding suicide.

Question 3 of 5

A client's blood level of carbamazepine is increased. When reviewing the client's medication history, which of the following would alert the nurse to a possible interaction?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Carbamazepine is metabolized by CYP3A4 enzyme. Step 2: Diltiazem is a CYP3A4 inhibitor. Step 3: Inhibiting CYP3A4 can lead to increased carbamazepine levels. Step 4: Therefore, Diltiazem can interact with carbamazepine. Summary: A, B, and C are not CYP3A4 inhibitors, so they are less likely to interact with carbamazepine compared to Diltiazem.

Question 4 of 5

The nurse is initiating a group for adolescent girls diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Many of the clients in the group are irritable and resent having to attend. One of them comments, 'This is a stupid waste of time!' Which of the response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You sound irritated; tell me about what is bothering you." This response demonstrates empathy and understanding towards the client's feelings and encourages open communication. By acknowledging the client's emotions and inviting them to express their concerns, the nurse can address the underlying issues causing the negative attitude, helping to build trust and rapport within the group. Choice A is inappropriate as it dismisses the client's feelings and may further alienate them. Choice C is authoritarian and may lead to resistance or defiance. Choice D is confrontational and disrespectful, which can escalate the situation and hinder therapeutic progress.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is caring for a family with a 3-year-old child who has autism disorders. When developing the teaching plan for the parents, which of the following would the nurse most likely include?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: A structured physical environment is an important aspect. Children with autism disorders often benefit from a structured environment to help them feel safe and secure. This includes having clear routines, visual schedules, and designated spaces for different activities. Providing a structured environment can help reduce anxiety and improve the child's ability to focus and learn. Choice A is incorrect because autism and seizure disorders are not typically directly related. Choice B is incorrect as there is no correlation between autism and higher IQ. Choice C is incorrect as dyslexia is not a common comorbid condition with autism.

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