ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient reports fears of having cervical cancer and says to the nurse, "I've had Pap smears by six different doctors. The results were normal, but I'm sure that's because of errors in the laboratory." Which disorder would the nurse suspect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis). This is because the patient's persistent fear of having cervical cancer despite normal test results suggests excessive anxiety about their health. This disorder involves preoccupation with having a serious illness despite medical reassurance. The patient's mistrust in laboratory results indicates a belief that they are ill, even when evidence suggests otherwise. A: Conversion disorder involves neurological symptoms that cannot be explained by medical conditions. C: Somatic symptom disorder involves excessive focus on physical symptoms, not fear of a specific illness. D: Factitious disorder involves intentionally producing or feigning physical or psychological symptoms for attention or to assume the sick role.
Question 2 of 5
Which assessment findings support a diagnosis of ODD?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the assessment findings of being negative, hostile, and blaming others for misbehavior are characteristic of Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). These behaviors align with the pattern of defiance and anger seen in individuals with ODD. Choices B, C, and D do not align with the typical symptoms of ODD. Choice B describes symptoms more indicative of Tourette syndrome, choice C describes conduct disorder behaviors, and choice D is more related to anxiety or trauma rather than ODD.
Question 3 of 5
A woman said, "I can't take anymore! Last year my husband had an affair and now we don't communicate. Three months ago, I found a lump in my breast. Yesterday my daughter said she's quitting college." What is the nurse's priority assessment?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Clarify what the patient means by "I can't take anymore." Rationale: 1. Assessing the patient's statement helps to understand her current emotional state and concerns. 2. It allows the nurse to prioritize the patient's immediate needs and provide appropriate support. 3. Understanding the patient's perceived inability to cope can guide the nurse in addressing her distress effectively. Summary of other choices: A: Improving couple communication is important but not the priority when the patient is expressing overwhelming distress. B: Concerns about a possible mastectomy are valid but not the immediate priority compared to the patient's emotional distress. C: The husband's affair is relevant, but the patient's current emotional state and distress take precedence.
Question 4 of 5
During the initial interview at the crisis center, a patient says, "I've been served with divorce papers. I'm so upset and anxious that I can't think clearly." Which comment should the nurse use to assess personal coping skills?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it directly addresses the patient's past coping mechanisms, providing insight into their ability to manage stress. This question helps the nurse understand the patient's strategies and resources for dealing with challenging situations. By asking about past experiences, the nurse can assess the patient's resilience and adaptive coping skills. Option B focuses on immediate needs and comfort, not on assessing coping skills. Option C explores the patient's current emotional state but doesn't specifically target coping strategies. Option D delves into the marital relationship dynamics, which may not directly assess the patient's personal coping skills in this situation.
Question 5 of 5
A leader plans to start a new self-esteem building group. Which intervention would be most helpful for assuring mutual respect within the group?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because establishing mutual respect as a group norm from the beginning sets clear expectations and encourages all members to uphold it. By emphasizing the importance of respect in the first session, the leader proactively guides the group towards a positive and respectful environment. This approach promotes a shared understanding among all members, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not focus on proactively establishing mutual respect as a fundamental value within the group. B excludes potential members based on assumptions, which may not align with the goal of building self-esteem. C provides information but does not actively promote respect within the group. D, while addressing disrespectful behavior, does not lay the groundwork for mutual respect as a core principle.