ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient preparing for surgery has moderate anxiety and is unable to understand preoperative information. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because presenting information in a calm manner using simple language helps the patient with moderate anxiety better understand preoperative information. This approach acknowledges the patient's anxiety and promotes effective communication. Choice A is incorrect because it addresses postoperative care rather than preoperative information. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on recovery rather than addressing the patient's anxiety and understanding of preoperative information. Choice D is incorrect because it encourages expression of feelings rather than directly addressing the patient's understanding of preoperative information.
Question 2 of 5
What is a true statement about NCLEX drag-and-drop test items?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because NCLEX drag-and-drop test items typically show a split computer screen where candidates can drag and drop items into different categories or sequences. This format allows for interactive and hands-on assessment of the test taker's understanding and application of concepts. This feature helps simulate real-world scenarios and test critical thinking skills. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A: They can use every answer option if designed to do so. B: They can test prioritization by requiring candidates to organize information or actions in a specific order. D: They do not make up 50 percent of test items; the percentage varies, and they are just one of the item types used in the NCLEX exam.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is planning a presentation to a group of older adults on the topic of suicide in the population. One of the group participants asks who has the highest risk of suicide. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because research shows that older men over 75 years who are divorced or widowed have the highest risk of suicide among older adults. This group faces social isolation, loss of social support, and higher rates of depression, making them more vulnerable. Choice A is incorrect as the number of prescriptions doesn't directly correlate with suicide risk. Choice B is incorrect because although depression is a risk factor, it's not the highest risk factor in this context. Choice C is incorrect as gender plays a significant role in suicide risk among older adults.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is implementing a brief intervention with a client who is abusing alcohol. The nurse most likely would be involved with which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because negotiating a conversation with the client to reduce alcohol use is a key component of brief interventions for alcohol abuse. The nurse's goal is to motivate the client to make positive changes in behavior. Asking questions about alcohol use (A) is important but not the primary focus. Pointing out inconsistencies (C) is more aligned with cognitive-behavioral therapy, not brief interventions. Helping the client change thinking patterns (D) is also important but not as directly related to the initial brief intervention process.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client diagnosed with depression and notes that the client has been prescribed mirtazapine. The nurse interprets this information, identifying this agent as which type?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Alpha-2 antagonist. Mirtazapine is classified as a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA), which acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist. This mechanism of action increases the release of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, leading to its antidepressant effects. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, cyclic antidepressants primarily inhibit reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, and norepinephrine dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine. Thus, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in this context.