ATI RN
Psychiatric Emergency Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient is experiencing psychomotor agitation associated with major depressive disorder. Which observation would the nurse associate with this symptom? The patient
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because psychomotor agitation in major depressive disorder typically manifests as excessive physical activity, such as pacing aimlessly around the room. This behavior is driven by inner restlessness and an inability to sit still. Choice B is incorrect because asking the nurse to repeat instructions is more indicative of cognitive impairment or difficulty with concentration rather than psychomotor agitation. Choice C is incorrect as complaints of prickly skin sensations are more likely related to anxiety or sensory issues rather than psychomotor agitation. Choice D is incorrect because slowed verbal responses are associated with psychomotor retardation, the opposite of psychomotor agitation seen in major depressive disorder.
Question 2 of 5
Symptoms of withdrawal from opioids for which the nurse should assess include
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because symptoms of opioid withdrawal typically include nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, anxiety, and hyperreflexia. Nausea and vomiting are common gastrointestinal symptoms, diaphoresis is excessive sweating, anxiety is a psychological symptom, and hyperreflexia is an increase in reflexes. These symptoms are classic manifestations of opioid withdrawal. Choices A, C, and D do not align with the typical symptoms of opioid withdrawal. A includes symptoms more consistent with opioid intoxication, C includes nonspecific symptoms, and D includes unrelated symptoms.
Question 3 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 4 of 5
An older adult patient takes multiple medications daily. Over 2 days, the patient developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. These findings are most characteristic of
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: delirium. Delirium is an acute and reversible condition characterized by sudden onset confusion, altered consciousness, inattention, and disorganized thinking. In this case, the patient's symptoms developed rapidly over a short period, suggesting an acute process. Delirium is commonly triggered by medication interactions or underlying medical conditions in older adults. The fluctuating levels of orientation, slurred speech, and unsteady gait are all indicative of delirium. Summary: B: Dementia is a chronic progressive condition with gradual cognitive decline, not sudden onset confusion. C: Amnestic syndrome is characterized by memory impairment, not the range of symptoms seen in delirium. D: Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia and does not typically present with sudden onset confusion and fluctuating levels of orientation.
Question 5 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.