ATI RN
ATI Capstone Mental Health Proctored Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient checks and rechecks electrical cords related to an obsessive thought that the house may burn down. The nurse and patient explore the likelihood of an actual fire. The patient states this event is not likely. This counseling demonstrates principles of
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: cognitive restructuring. This counseling technique involves challenging and changing irrational thoughts, like the fear of the house burning down, by exploring evidence and creating more balanced perspectives. In this scenario, the nurse and patient are addressing the patient's obsessive thought by examining the likelihood of an actual fire, which aligns with cognitive restructuring. A: Flooding involves exposing the patient to the feared stimulus at full intensity, which is not demonstrated in the scenario. B: Desensitization involves gradually exposing the patient to the feared stimulus, not directly challenging irrational thoughts. C: Relaxation techniques aim to reduce anxiety and stress but do not address the underlying irrational thoughts like cognitive restructuring does.
Question 2 of 5
A hospitalized patient diagnosed with depression asks the nurse, 'Should I go home this weekend?' Which response by the nurse uses the technique of reflection?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Option A reflects the patient's question back to them without adding any personal interpretation, allowing them to further explore their feelings. Step 2: This technique of reflection demonstrates active listening and encourages the patient to delve deeper into their thoughts. Step 3: Option B is a therapeutic technique called clarification, not reflection. Option C is an example of paraphrasing. Option D is a form of confrontation, not reflection. Summary: Choice A is correct as it reflects the patient's question back to them, facilitating self-exploration. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they represent different communication techniques.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is being treated in an interdisciplinary clinic. During interactions with a patient who is receiving cognitive behavior therapy, which of the following would the nurse concentrate on first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Identifying the underlying beliefs. In cognitive behavior therapy, identifying the underlying beliefs is crucial as they drive the patient's thoughts and behaviors. By focusing on these core beliefs first, the nurse can help the patient understand the root causes of their issues and work towards challenging and modifying them effectively. A: Identifying alternative explanations of an event - This step usually comes after identifying the underlying beliefs. B: Exploring evidence to support or refute the beliefs - This step comes after identifying the beliefs and is not the initial focus. D: Examining the real implications if the beliefs are true - This step is important but is typically addressed after identifying and working on the underlying beliefs.
Question 4 of 5
A group of nursing students is reviewing the physical changes that occur in older adults. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which of the following as contributing to the patient's risk for drug toxicity?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Reduced liver function. In older adults, liver function declines, affecting drug metabolism and clearance. This can lead to drug toxicity as medications may not be broken down effectively. Reduced liver function is a common age-related change that can impact the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Choices B, C, and D do not directly contribute to drug toxicity risk in older adults. Reduced brain gray matter volume, lower metabolic rate at rest, and decreased body water are not specifically related to drug metabolism and clearance. Thus, they are incorrect choices for contributing to the patient's risk for drug toxicity.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is completing an admission assessment of a young adult woman who has a history of depression and who was brought to the hospital by her boyfriend. In response to the nurse's question regarding suicidal ideation, the patient discloses that she is thinking about killing herself. Which question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "What thoughts have you had about how you would kill yourself?" This question is appropriate as it assesses the patient's specific suicidal ideation, providing crucial information for risk assessment and intervention planning. By asking about the method, the nurse can gauge the immediacy and lethality of the patient's suicidal thoughts. A: "What does your boyfriend think about your desire to kill yourself?" - This question focuses on the boyfriend's perspective rather than the patient's own thoughts and feelings, not directly addressing the immediate risk. B: "What are your spiritual beliefs about suicide?" - While spiritual beliefs can be important, this question does not directly address the severity or immediacy of the patient's suicidal thoughts. C: "What will killing yourself accomplish?" - While exploring the patient's reasons for suicidal ideation is important, this question does not address the specific method or immediate risk.