ATI RN
Psychiatric Emergency Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse wants to research epidemiology, assessment techniques, and best practices regarding persons with addictions. Which resource will provide the most comprehensive information?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the correct answer because it is a federal agency dedicated to improving behavioral health outcomes. Step 2: SAMHSA provides comprehensive information on epidemiology, assessment techniques, and best practices for persons with addictions. Step 3: SAMHSA's resources are evidence-based and cover a wide range of topics related to addiction. Step 4: Other choices are incorrect because the Institute of Medicine (IOM) focuses on broader health issues, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) focuses on nursing regulation, and the American Society of Addictions Medicine has a narrower focus compared to SAMHSA.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement by a depressed patient will alert the nurse to the patient's need for immediate, active intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the statement indicates a lack of social support, which is a significant risk factor for worsening depression and potential self-harm. This indicates an immediate need for intervention to address the patient's feelings of isolation and hopelessness. A: This statement shows recognition of needing help, which is a positive sign and may not require immediate intervention. C: This statement refers to a potential additional stressor but does not indicate an immediate need for intervention. D: This statement suggests a history of self-harm but does not indicate a current immediate risk.
Question 3 of 5
Which behavior best demonstrates aggression?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the behavior of stomping away, going to grab a tray aggressively demonstrates physical aggression. This behavior involves a direct and forceful action that could potentially harm someone or indicate a threat. The other choices do not demonstrate the same level of physical aggression. Choice B shows emotional distress but not physical aggression. Choice C involves verbal expression of anger but does not involve physical actions. Choice D shows refusal to take medication but does not involve physical aggression. Therefore, choice A is the best demonstration of aggression in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is pacing the hall near the nurses' station, swearing loudly. An appropriate initial intervention for the nurse would be to address the patient by name and say:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates empathy and a desire to understand the patient's feelings. By addressing the patient by name and expressing a willingness to talk about their emotions, the nurse shows respect and attempts to de-escalate the situation. Choice A is too generic and may come off as confrontational. Choice B is authoritarian and dismissive of the patient's emotions. Choice D is coercive and does not address the underlying issues causing the behavior. Overall, choice C promotes therapeutic communication and patient-centered care.
Question 5 of 5
A patient who was widowed 18 months ago says, 'I can remember good times we had without getting upset. Sometimes I even think about the disappointments. I am still trying to become accustomed to sleeping in the bed all alone.' The work of mourning
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient's ability to recall positive memories without distress, acknowledge disappointments, and express ongoing adjustment to being alone indicates that the work of mourning is at or near completion. This suggests that the patient has processed their grief, accepted the loss, and is gradually adapting to the new reality. Other choices are incorrect because the patient's responses do not indicate that mourning has just started (A), not yet started (B), or progressing abnormally (D).