ATI RN
Behavioral Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is planning care for a client who has Alzheimer's disease and is in the terminal phase. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In Alzheimer's disease, the terminal phase is characterized by a progressive decline in physical and cognitive abilities. Option A, "Unable to sit up," is the correct answer because clients in the terminal phase of Alzheimer's often experience severe physical deterioration, leading to difficulty in basic functions like sitting up. Option B, "Requires cueing to eat," is incorrect as it may be a symptom in earlier stages but is not specific to the terminal phase. Option C, "Speech degrades to a few words," is also incorrect as speech deterioration is common in Alzheimer's but not necessarily indicative of the terminal phase. Option D, "Needs assistance with finances," is not specific to the terminal phase and can be a symptom in earlier stages as well. Educationally, understanding the progression of Alzheimer's disease is crucial for nurses caring for affected individuals. Recognizing the signs and symptoms specific to each phase helps in providing appropriate and compassionate care tailored to the client's needs. In the terminal phase, the focus shifts to comfort care and symptom management, making it essential for nurses to anticipate and address the unique challenges faced by these clients.
Question 2 of 5
A patient being treated for major depressive disorder has taken 300 mg amitriptyline daily for a year. The patient calls the case manager at the clinic and says, 'I stopped taking my antidepressant 2 days ago. Now I am having cold sweats, nausea, a rapid heartbeat, and nightmares.' How should the nurse advise the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Go to the nearest emergency department immediately. This patient is experiencing symptoms of antidepressant withdrawal, known as discontinuation syndrome. Amitriptyline, as a tricyclic antidepressant, can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly after long-term use. The patient's symptoms of cold sweats, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and nightmares are indicative of withdrawal and require immediate medical attention to manage potential complications. Option B is incorrect as it trivializes the situation and does not address the severity of the symptoms. Taking aspirin and fluids will not alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Option C is incorrect because restarting the antidepressant without medical guidance can be dangerous and may not address the immediate symptoms effectively. The patient needs urgent evaluation by a healthcare provider. Option D is incorrect as it advises the patient to resume and then discontinue the medication again without medical supervision. This approach can worsen withdrawal symptoms and is not a recommended practice in managing antidepressant withdrawal. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of understanding and managing antidepressant withdrawal symptoms. Nurses need to be vigilant in recognizing such symptoms and providing appropriate guidance to patients to ensure their safety and well-being. Immediate medical attention is crucial in such situations to prevent complications and provide necessary support to the patient.
Question 3 of 5
Which medication is commonly used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the treatment of alcohol use disorder, the medication commonly used is Disulfiram (option C). Disulfiram works by causing unpleasant effects such as nausea, vomiting, and palpitations when alcohol is consumed, thus acting as a deterrent to drinking. This medication helps individuals maintain sobriety by creating a negative association with alcohol consumption. Methadone (option A) is used in the treatment of opioid dependence, not alcohol use disorder. Bromocriptine (option B) is a medication used for conditions like Parkinson's disease and hyperprolactinemia, not alcohol use disorder. Naltrexone (option D) is also used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder, but it works differently from Disulfiram. Naltrexone reduces alcohol cravings and the pleasurable effects of alcohol, while Disulfiram causes unpleasant reactions if alcohol is consumed. In an educational context, understanding the pharmacological interventions for alcohol use disorder is crucial for healthcare professionals working in behavioral nursing. Knowing the mechanisms of action of different medications helps in providing appropriate and effective treatment to individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder. By grasping the rationale behind the correct medication, healthcare providers can make informed decisions to support their patients in achieving and maintaining sobriety.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In working with a patient diagnosed with PTSD, the most appropriate intervention is option D: helping the patient identify triggers and develop coping strategies. This approach is grounded in evidence-based practice for PTSD management. By identifying triggers, the patient gains awareness of what may lead to distress or flashbacks, empowering them to implement coping strategies to manage these triggers effectively. Option A, encouraging avoidance of talking about the trauma, is not recommended as it may perpetuate avoidance behaviors, worsen symptoms, and hinder the patient's ability to process and heal from the traumatic experience. Option B, exposure therapy, although effective for some individuals with PTSD, may not be appropriate for all patients, especially if they are not ready or willing to confront the trauma directly. Option C, offering sedating medications during flashbacks, only addresses the symptoms temporarily without addressing the underlying triggers or providing the patient with long-term coping skills. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the principles of trauma-informed care and evidence-based interventions for PTSD. By choosing option D, nurses can actively engage in supporting patients to develop resilience and regain control over their lives in a safe and empowering manner.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is in the manic phase. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse anticipate observing in this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsive behavior. During the manic phase of bipolar disorder, individuals often exhibit symptoms such as heightened mood, increased energy levels, impulsivity, racing thoughts, and decreased need for sleep. These symptoms can lead to risky behaviors and poor decision-making. Option A) Lethargy and lack of interest in activities is incorrect because these are characteristics of the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, not the manic phase. Option C) Frequent crying episodes and withdrawal from others are more indicative of symptoms seen in the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, not the manic phase. Option D) Hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) and difficulty concentrating are also more commonly associated with the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, rather than the manic phase. Educationally, understanding the symptoms of bipolar disorder in its different phases is crucial for nurses to provide appropriate care and interventions for patients. Recognizing the distinct behaviors seen in the manic phase helps nurses ensure patient safety, manage symptoms effectively, and provide support during episodes of mania. This knowledge also aids in developing individualized care plans and promoting a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship.