ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient newly diagnosed as HIV-positive seeks the nurse's advice on how to reduce the risk of infections. The patient says, 'I went to church years ago and I was in my best health then. Maybe I should start going to church again.' Which response will the nurse offer?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because research indicates that spiritual practices can positively impact immune system function and coping abilities, which can help reduce the risk of infections in HIV-positive individuals. This response acknowledges the potential benefits of spiritual practices on health outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as it dismisses the potential influence of spiritual practices on health and instead attributes the patient's previous good health to youth and strength. Choice B is incorrect because it acknowledges the benefit of social support but does not directly address the potential health benefits of spiritual practices. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses solely on the risk of infections from attending church without considering the potential positive effects of spiritual practices on health.
Question 2 of 5
A patient in the emergency department shows disorganized behavior and incoherence after a friend suggested a homosexual encounter. In which room should the nurse place the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: An interview room furnished with a desk and two chairs. This room provides a private and calm environment for the patient to express themselves openly. It allows for a therapeutic conversation and assessment of the patient's mental status. Choice B is incorrect as it does not provide a suitable environment for patient care or communication. Choice C is more appropriate for a physical examination rather than a mental health assessment. Choice D is not ideal as it may not offer the privacy needed for the patient to discuss sensitive issues.
Question 3 of 5
A cruel and abusive person often uses rationalization to explain the behavior. Which comment demonstrates use of this defense mechanism?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is the correct answer as it demonstrates rationalization by shifting blame to the provoked person. This deflects responsibility from the abuser's actions by justifying them based on the other person's actions. A admits lack of awareness, B cites personal struggle, and D shows self-awareness, but they do not involve rationalization as in C.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who has frequent flashbacks as well as persistent symptoms of arousal. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, "Explain that the physical symptoms are related to the psychological state." This intervention helps the patient understand the connection between their physical symptoms and their psychological state, promoting self-awareness and insight. By recognizing this link, the patient can begin to identify triggers and develop coping strategies. Choice A is incorrect because intentionally triggering flashbacks can be harmful and retraumatizing for the patient. Choice C is incorrect as encouraging repression of memories can worsen symptoms and hinder the healing process. Choice D is incorrect because supporting "numbing" as a coping mechanism may prevent the patient from processing and addressing underlying issues, leading to long-term negative effects.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with depersonalization disorder tells the nurse, "It's starting again. I feel as though I'm going to float away." Which intervention would be most appropriate at this point?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Engage the patient in a physical activity such as exercise. Physical activity can help ground the patient by redirecting their focus and decreasing feelings of detachment and floating. Exercise releases endorphins which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. A: Notifying the health care provider may be necessary but engaging the patient in physical activity is the immediate priority. C: Isolating the patient may exacerbate feelings of detachment and increase anxiety. D: Administering antianxiety medication may be necessary in some cases, but engaging in physical activity is a non-pharmacological intervention that should be attempted first.