ATI RN
Behavioral Questions for Nurse Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a group of clients who have depression. When planning care, which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option B, which is the newly admitted client who has bipolar I disorder. The rationale behind this choice lies in the acuity and potential risk associated with bipolar I disorder. This condition can involve severe mood swings, including manic episodes that may require immediate attention to ensure the safety of the client and others. Option A is incorrect because premenstrual dysphoric disorder, while significant, does not typically present an immediate threat to the client's safety that would necessitate urgent intervention. Option C, the client with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, is also less urgent as this disorder is characterized by chronic irritability rather than acute mood disturbances that require immediate attention. Option D, the client with a history of dysthymic disorder, is not the priority as this condition is a persistent depressive disorder that does not typically involve the same level of acuity as bipolar I disorder. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing care based on the acuity of the client's condition. It emphasizes the need for nurses to assess and manage clients with more acute and potentially dangerous conditions first to ensure their safety and well-being.
Question 2 of 5
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is prescribed fluoxetine (Prozac). Which of the following should the nurse include in the patient's teaching plan?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, option C, "It may take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be felt," is the correct choice for the nurse to include in the patient's teaching plan. This is because fluoxetine, like other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), typically takes a few weeks to reach its full therapeutic effect in treating major depressive disorder. It is crucial for the patient to understand that immediate improvement in symptoms is unlikely and that adherence to the medication regimen is essential for long-term benefits. Option A, stating that the patient may experience drowsiness and sedation during the day, is not a priority teaching point for fluoxetine. While these side effects can occur, they are more commonly associated with other medications and typically diminish over time with continued use. Option B, suggesting that the patient may notice improvement in mood within a few hours, is inaccurate and misleading. Immediate mood improvement is not expected with fluoxetine and may lead to unrealistic expectations and premature discontinuation of the medication. Option D, advising the patient to take the medication with food to reduce stomach upset, is a general recommendation for SSRIs but is not as critical as understanding the delayed onset of therapeutic effects. It is important to address potential side effects and optimal administration, but the timeline for experiencing the full benefits of the medication takes precedence in educating the patient effectively. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of providing accurate information to patients regarding their medication regimen. Nurses play a crucial role in patient education, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. By understanding the pharmacokinetics and expected outcomes of medications, patients can better manage their conditions and adhere to treatment plans for improved health outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The patient states, 'I keep having flashbacks to the accident, and I can't stop thinking about it.' Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct intervention (Option C) for the nurse to prioritize is assisting the patient in developing coping strategies for managing flashbacks. This is crucial in helping the patient learn effective ways to deal with the distressing symptoms of PTSD. By teaching the patient coping mechanisms such as grounding techniques, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices, the nurse empowers the patient to regain a sense of control over their experiences. Option A, encouraging the patient to talk about the trauma and relive the experience, could potentially retraumatize the patient and exacerbate their symptoms. Patients with PTSD may not be ready or able to recount traumatic events, and pushing them to do so can be harmful. Option B, providing education on the effects of PTSD, is important but may not be the most immediate priority in this situation. While education is valuable, addressing the patient's current distress should take precedence. Option D, reassuring the patient that the flashbacks will stop on their own over time, oversimplifies the complexities of PTSD and may give false hope. Effective management of PTSD requires active coping strategies and support, rather than passive waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind prioritizing coping strategies for managing flashbacks in patients with PTSD highlights the importance of patient-centered care, trauma-informed practice, and evidence-based interventions in nursing practice. By focusing on empowering patients with practical tools to manage their symptoms, nurses can make a significant positive impact on the well-being and recovery of individuals with PTSD.
Question 4 of 5
Before assessing a new patient, a nurse is told by another health care worker, 'I know that patient. No matter how hard we work, there isn't much improvement by the time of discharge.' The nurse's responsibility is to
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option B - assess the patient based on data collected from all sources. This option aligns with the nursing principle of conducting a comprehensive assessment to form an independent, evidence-based judgment of the patient's condition. By gathering information from various sources, including direct observation and patient history, the nurse can make a thorough evaluation and develop an individualized care plan. Option A is incorrect because simply documenting another worker's assessment without conducting an independent evaluation does not fulfill the nurse's duty to assess the patient themselves. Option C is incorrect as it suggests relying on a third party rather than directly assessing the patient. Option D is also incorrect as discussing the worker's impression with the patient during the assessment interview may bias the nurse's evaluation. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of critical thinking and independent decision-making in nursing practice. Nurses must rely on their own assessments and interpretations of patient data to provide safe and effective care. Gathering information from multiple sources ensures a holistic understanding of the patient's needs and guides appropriate interventions.
Question 5 of 5
At what point in an assessment interview would a nurse ask, 'How does your faith help you in stressful situations?' During the assessment of
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When discussing coping strategies, the nurse might ask what the patient does when upset, what usually relieves stress, and to whom the patient goes to talk about problems. The question regarding whether the patient's faith helps deal with stress fits well here. It would be out of place if introduced during exploration of the other topics.