ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nursing student finds that she comes down with a sinus infection toward the end of every semester. When this occurs, which stage of stress is the student most likely experiencing?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nursing student experiencing a sinus infection toward the end of every semester is most likely in the stage of exhaustion. In the general adaptation syndrome model of stress, this stage occurs when the body's resources have been depleted after prolonged exposure to stressors. The student's immune system may be weakened due to the chronic stress of academic demands and other stressors throughout the semester, making them more vulnerable to illnesses like sinus infections. Symptoms of exhaustion can manifest physically, emotionally, and mentally as the body struggles to cope with the ongoing stress. It is important for the student to prioritize self-care, manage stress levels, and seek support to prevent burnout and illness during challenging times.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is evaluating a clients response to stress. What would indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing a secondary appraisal of the stressful event?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In Lazarus and Folkman's Cognitive Appraisal Theory, secondary appraisal is the evaluation of the resources and coping strategies available to deal with a stressful event. Therefore, when the individual judges the resources and skills needed to deal with the event, it indicates that they are engaging in a secondary appraisal of the situation. This step is crucial in determining how the individual will cope with the stressor and manage the potential outcomes of the event. Options A, B, and D do not directly relate to the secondary appraisal process as defined in the theory.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is conducting education on anxiety and stress management. Which of the following should be identified as the most important initial step in learning how to manage anxiety?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most important initial step in learning how to manage anxiety is to first become aware of the factors creating stress. Understanding the root causes of anxiety and stress can help individuals develop appropriate coping strategies. By identifying triggers and stressors, individuals can then work towards addressing and managing these factors effectively. This self-awareness is crucial for developing a personalized and targeted approach to anxiety management. Diagnostic blood tests, relaxation exercises, and identifying support systems are important components of anxiety management as well, but they typically come after understanding the underlying stress factors.
Question 4 of 5
A client has a history of excessive drinking, which has led to multiple arrests for driving under the influence (DUI). The client states, I work hard to provide for my family. I dont see why I cant drink to relax. The nurse recognizes the use of which defense mechanism?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationalization is a defense mechanism where an individual justifies unacceptable behaviors or feelings by providing logical reasons or explanations. In this scenario, the client is rationalizing their excessive drinking by stating that they work hard to provide for their family, so they should be able to drink to relax. This rationalization allows the client to avoid confronting the negative consequences of their excessive drinking and the impact it has had on their life, such as multiple DUI arrests. It provides a socially acceptable reason for their behavior, allowing them to continue drinking without feeling guilty or responsible for their actions.
Question 5 of 5
A mental health technician asks the nurse, How do psychiatrists determine which diagnosis to give a patient? Which of these responses by the nurse would be most accurate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Psychiatrists determine a patient's diagnosis by using pre-established criteria from the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The DSM-5 provides standardized criteria for diagnosing mental health disorders, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the identification and classification of various psychiatric conditions. This allows psychiatrists to make informed and evidence-based decisions when assigning diagnoses to patients. Additionally, the DSM-5 helps psychiatrists communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals by using a common language and framework for mental health diagnosis.