ATI RN
Virtual ATI Mental Health Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient experiencing panic suddenly began running and shouting, "I'm going to explode!" Select the nurse's best action.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it focuses on de-escalation by providing reassurance and support to the patient. By telling the patient to stop running and take a deep breath, the nurse acknowledges the patient's distress and offers assistance. This approach aims to help the patient regain control in a calming manner. Choice A is incorrect because asking for an example may not address the immediate need for de-escalation. Choice B is incorrect as physically restraining the patient could escalate the situation further. Choice D is incorrect as it may provoke feelings of fear or lack of control in the patient by mentioning seclusion.
Question 2 of 5
After assessing a patient, the nurse noted the following: he was tearful, he tried to kill himself before coming into the hospital, he had no immediate plan for another suicide attempt, he was unable to concentrate, and he reported having trouble sleeping and having little or no appetite. The nurse also noted that the patient's appearance was unkempt, that he spoke in a low monotone, and that he was unable to establish and maintain eye contact. Based on this information, which nursing diagnoses would be the most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Risk for Suicide. Given the patient's presentation of being tearful, previous suicide attempt, inability to concentrate, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, unkempt appearance, low monotone speech, and lack of eye contact, these are all indicative of suicidal ideation and risk. The nurse should prioritize this nursing diagnosis to ensure the patient's safety. A: Ineffective Role Performance does not address the immediate risk of suicide. B: Risk for Infection is not indicated by the patient's symptoms. D: Risk for Self-Mutilation is not the priority as the patient's immediate risk is suicidal behavior.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is deciding about the size of the group. The nurse determines that a large group would be best based on which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because a large group is more effective for dealing with a specific issue due to the diversity of perspectives and experiences that can be shared. In a large group, there are more opportunities for brainstorming, problem-solving, and support. This leads to a richer discussion and more comprehensive exploration of the issue at hand. Choice A is incorrect because transference and countertransference issues can still arise in a large group setting. Choice B is incorrect as group cohesiveness may actually be harder to achieve in a larger group. Choice C is incorrect as a large group offers more potential interactions and relationships, not limited ones.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic stress for the past month because of job loss and financial difficulties. When evaluating the patient's assessment findings, the nurse would anticipate finding an elevated antibody titer to which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Herpes simplex viruses. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to viral infections. Elevated antibody titers to herpes simplex viruses would be expected due to the reactivation of latent infections during periods of stress. The other choices (B: Herpes zoster viruses, C: Acquired immune deficiency viruses, D: Influenza viruses) are less likely to be affected by chronic stress in the same way as herpes simplex viruses. Herpes zoster viruses typically reactivates due to decreased immunity in older age, acquired immune deficiency viruses are related to HIV infection, and influenza viruses are more commonly associated with acute infections rather than chronic stress.
Question 5 of 5
A client has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Assessment reveals that the client lives alone. His clothing is disheveled, his hair is uncombed and matted, and his body has a strange odor. During an interview, the client's family voices a desire for the client to live with them when he is discharged. Based on the assessment findings, which nursing diagnosis would be the priority?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Bathing Self-Care Deficit related to symptoms of schizophrenia. The priority nursing diagnosis should address the most immediate and essential need for the client's well-being. In this case, the client's disheveled appearance, uncombed and matted hair, and strange odor indicate a lack of self-care in terms of personal hygiene, specifically bathing. This can lead to physical health issues and negatively impact the client's self-esteem and social interactions. Addressing the bathing self-care deficit is crucial to improving the client's overall health and well-being. A: Ineffective Role Performance related to symptoms of schizophrenia - While this is a valid concern, addressing the client's basic self-care needs should take precedence over role performance. B: Social Isolation related to auditory hallucinations - While social isolation is important, the immediate focus should be on addressing the client's personal hygiene needs. C: Dysfunctional Family Processes related to psychosis - While involving the family is important, the priority