ATI RN
Multiple Choice Questions on Psychiatric Emergencies Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient diagnosed with depressive disorder begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. The nurse should provide information to the patient and family about
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: SSRIs can initially increase suicidal thoughts in some patients due to changes in neurotransmitter levels. Step 2: Monitoring for increased suicidal thoughts is crucial to prevent harm. Step 3: Reporting increased suicidal thoughts allows for timely intervention and adjustment of treatment. Step 4: Choices A, B, and D are irrelevant to SSRI therapy for depressive disorder.
Question 2 of 5
A patient was diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During which month would this patient's symptoms be most acute?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A (January). Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, typically in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms are most acute during the darkest and coldest months, such as January. April (B), June (C), and September (D) are less likely to be the peak months for SAD symptoms as they correspond to spring, summer, and early fall when there is more daylight and warmer temperatures, which typically alleviate symptoms of SAD.
Question 3 of 5
A disheveled patient in the acute phase of major depressive disorder is withdrawn, has psychomotor retardation, and has not showered for several days. The nurse will
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient is in the acute phase of major depressive disorder, showing withdrawal and psychomotor retardation. Approach with empathy and understanding is crucial. Bringing up the issue at a community meeting (A) may embarrass the patient. Telling the patient to bathe daily (B) may come off as insensitive. Making observations (C) may not lead to action. Assisting the patient with showering in a firm and neutral manner (D) is the most appropriate as it shows empathy, respect, and provides practical support.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse instructs a patient taking a medication that inhibits the action of monoamine oxidase (MAO) to avoid certain foods and drugs because of the risk of
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: hypertensive crisis. MAO inhibitors can cause a buildup of tyramine in the body, leading to a sudden increase in blood pressure, potentially resulting in a hypertensive crisis. This is due to the interaction of tyramine with the medication inhibiting MAO. Other choices are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the interaction between MAO inhibitors and tyramine. The risk of hypotensive shock (choice A) is not associated with MAO inhibitors. Cardiac dysrhythmia (choice C) and cardiogenic shock (choice D) are not typically caused by the interaction of MAO inhibitors with certain foods and drugs.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder was treated several times for substance abuse, but each time the patient relapsed. Which treatment approach is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, a residential program. This option is the most appropriate for a patient with antisocial personality disorder and recurring substance abuse issues because it offers a structured and intensive environment for long-term treatment and monitoring. The patient can benefit from 24/7 supervision, therapy, and support to address underlying issues contributing to relapse. In contrast, A (1-week detox) is too short and doesn't address underlying psychological factors. B (outpatient therapy) may not provide enough support and monitoring for this patient. C (12-step program) can be helpful but may not offer the level of structure and supervision needed for someone with antisocial personality disorder. Therefore, D is the best choice for this specific case.