ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is talking with a patient, and 5 minutes remain in the session. The patient has been silent most of the session. Another patient comes to the door of the room, interrupts, and says to the nurse, "I really need to talk to you." The nurse should
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the nurse needs to set boundaries and manage the time effectively. By informing the interrupting patient that the current session has 5 more minutes, the nurse acknowledges their needs while also respecting the ongoing session. This approach maintains the integrity of the therapeutic relationship with the current patient and ensures a smooth transition to address the interrupting patient's concerns. Choice A is incorrect as it may disrupt the current patient's session and compromise confidentiality. Choice B is not ideal as it dismisses the interrupting patient without acknowledging their needs. Choice C is also incorrect as it prioritizes the interrupting patient over the ongoing session, which can be disrespectful and unprofessional.
Question 2 of 5
Recognizing the frequency of depression among the American population, the nurse should advocate for which mental health promotion intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because regular depression screening for adolescent and teenage students can help identify symptoms early and provide timely intervention. This is crucial in addressing depression, which is prevalent among young populations. A: While discussing depression in school health classes is beneficial, screening is more proactive in identifying individuals at risk. C: Increasing depression hotlines is important but may not reach all individuals, especially those who may not seek help. D: Encouraging senior centers to provide information is valuable but may not directly address the needs of adolescents and teenagers.
Question 3 of 5
Which question should the nurse ask when assessing for what Sullivan's Interpersonal Theory identifies as the most painful human condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because loneliness is considered the most painful human condition according to Sullivan's Interpersonal Theory. Loneliness stems from a lack of meaningful connections with others, leading to emotional distress. Asking about loneliness helps assess the individual's interpersonal relationships and emotional well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the core concept of loneliness as the most painful human condition in Sullivan's theory.
Question 4 of 5
Schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions are terms that relate to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions are central concepts in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, schemata are core beliefs, automatic thoughts are immediate cognitive responses to situations, and cognitive distortions are irrational thought patterns. CBT aims to identify and challenge these cognitive processes to promote healthier thinking patterns and behaviors. Incorrect choices: A: Rational-emotive behavioral therapy focuses on challenging irrational beliefs and is related to CBT, but does not specifically address schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions. C: Operant conditioning theory focuses on learning through reinforcement and punishment, not cognitive processes like schemata and automatic thoughts. D: Biofeedback is a technique to help individuals control physiological processes, such as heart rate or muscle tension, and is not directly related to cognitive processes addressed in CBT.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing manifestations of anxiety. The nurse should recognize which of the following statements about the neurophysiologic manifestations of anxiety as correct?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The amygdala-centered (ACC) circuit of the brain is associated with feelings of panic. The amygdala is a key structure in the brain's emotional processing and is involved in the generation of fear responses, including panic. When a person experiences anxiety, the amygdala is activated, leading to increased feelings of panic. This is why understanding the role of the amygdala in anxiety is important for nurses caring for anxious clients. Summary of other choices: B: Incorrect. The amygdala is associated with feelings of panic, not just apprehension. C: Incorrect. The CSTC circuit is not specifically associated with phobias but plays a role in various cognitive functions. D: Incorrect. The CSTC circuit is not primarily associated with feelings of fear but is involved in motor control and decision-making processes.