ATI RN
Psychiatric Emergencies Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient previously hospitalized for 2 weeks committed suicide the day after discharge. Which initial nursing measure will be most important regarding this event?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because holding a meeting for staff to provide support, express feelings, and identify overlooked clues or faulty judgments is crucial in addressing the emotional impact of the patient's suicide and identifying any potential errors in care. This measure promotes teamwork, communication, and a culture of learning from adverse events to prevent future occurrences. Option A is incorrect because verifying the security of the patient's medical record does not directly address the emotional impact on staff or the need for reflection on care provided. Option C is incorrect as consulting the legal department focuses on potential legal consequences rather than immediate emotional and clinical considerations. Option D is incorrect because documenting a report of a sentinel event is necessary but does not address the immediate need for staff support and reflection on care provided.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who was responding to auditory hallucinations earlier in the morning now approaches the nurse shaking a fist and shouts, 'Back off!' and then goes to the dayroom. While following the patient into the dayroom, the nurse should
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: make sure there is adequate physical space between the nurse and patient. This is the best course of action to ensure the safety of both the nurse and the patient. By maintaining physical distance, the nurse can prevent any potential harm or escalation of the situation. It allows the patient to have personal space and reduces the risk of physical confrontation. Moving closer (B) or maintaining an arm's length distance (C) may provoke the patient further. Initiating a conversation about appropriate behavior (D) can be ineffective or even escalate the situation without first ensuring physical safety.
Question 3 of 5
A bystander was killed during a robbery 2 weeks ago. His widow, who is diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, cries spontaneously when talking about his death. Select the nurse's most therapeutic response.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it acknowledges the widow's emotions, validates her feelings, and expresses empathy. It shows understanding and support without making assumptions or judgments about her condition. A: This response jumps to conclusions about hallucinations, which may not be relevant to the widow's situation. B: This response invalidates the widow's grief and may increase her feelings of guilt or shame. C: This response stigmatizes the widow's mental illness and suggests a drastic intervention without assessing her current needs.
Question 4 of 5
Which finding indicates successful completion of an individual's grief and mourning?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it reflects a healthy progression through the grieving process. Remembering both the positive and negative aspects of the relationship indicates acceptance and a realistic view. Choice A suggests a lack of progress as the widow has not moved on from keeping belongings untouched. Choice C indicates unresolved grief with continued attachment. Choice D signals emotional suppression and denial of grief, which is not indicative of successful mourning. In summary, choice B demonstrates a balanced and adaptive response to grief, while the other options reflect various stages of unresolved or maladaptive grieving.
Question 5 of 5
A hospice patient tells the nurse, 'Life has been good. I am proud of being self-educated. I overcame adversity and always gave my best. I intend to die as I lived.' The nurse planning care for this patient would recognize the importance of
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient expresses a sense of pride in their self-education, resilience, and determination to face challenges. By supporting the patient's use of their own resources to meet challenges, the nurse aligns with the patient's values and autonomy, promoting dignity and empowerment. Providing aggressive pain management (A) may not address the patient's psychological and emotional needs. Helping the patient reassess existing conflicts (B) may not be necessary if the patient is content with their life. While focusing on the meaning in life and death (C) is important, in this case, supporting the patient's self-reliance is more relevant.