ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient says, "I've done a lot of cheating and manipulating in my relationships." Select a nonjudgmental response by the nurse.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "How do you feel about that?" because it encourages the patient to explore their feelings and thoughts without judgment. This response shows empathy and helps the patient open up about their behavior. Incorrect choices: B: "I am glad that you realize this." - This response may come off as insincere or patronizing. C: "That's not a good way to behave." - This response is judgmental and may make the patient defensive. D: "Have you outgrown that type of behavior?" - This response implies that the behavior is in the past and may not address the patient's current feelings or struggles.
Question 2 of 5
Which question should the nurse ask when assessing for what Sullivan's Interpersonal Theory identifies as the most painful human condition?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because loneliness is considered the most painful human condition according to Sullivan's Interpersonal Theory. Loneliness stems from a lack of meaningful connections with others, leading to emotional distress. Asking about loneliness helps assess the individual's interpersonal relationships and emotional well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the core concept of loneliness as the most painful human condition in Sullivan's theory.
Question 3 of 5
Schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions are terms that relate to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions are central concepts in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, schemata are core beliefs, automatic thoughts are immediate cognitive responses to situations, and cognitive distortions are irrational thought patterns. CBT aims to identify and challenge these cognitive processes to promote healthier thinking patterns and behaviors. Incorrect choices: A: Rational-emotive behavioral therapy focuses on challenging irrational beliefs and is related to CBT, but does not specifically address schemata, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions. C: Operant conditioning theory focuses on learning through reinforcement and punishment, not cognitive processes like schemata and automatic thoughts. D: Biofeedback is a technique to help individuals control physiological processes, such as heart rate or muscle tension, and is not directly related to cognitive processes addressed in CBT.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing manifestations of anxiety. The nurse should recognize which of the following statements about the neurophysiologic manifestations of anxiety as correct?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The amygdala-centered (ACC) circuit of the brain is associated with feelings of panic. The amygdala is a key structure in the brain's emotional processing and is involved in the generation of fear responses, including panic. When a person experiences anxiety, the amygdala is activated, leading to increased feelings of panic. This is why understanding the role of the amygdala in anxiety is important for nurses caring for anxious clients. Summary of other choices: B: Incorrect. The amygdala is associated with feelings of panic, not just apprehension. C: Incorrect. The CSTC circuit is not specifically associated with phobias but plays a role in various cognitive functions. D: Incorrect. The CSTC circuit is not primarily associated with feelings of fear but is involved in motor control and decision-making processes.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who has paranoid personality disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Suspiciousness of others. In paranoid personality disorder, individuals have a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others. This belief that others are out to harm or deceive them is a key characteristic. This suspicion can lead to interpersonal difficulties and strained relationships. A: Lack of feelings of remorse is not a typical finding in paranoid personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder may have difficulties trusting others, but it does not necessarily mean they lack empathy or remorse. B: Requiring frequent reassurance from others is more commonly seen in individuals with dependent personality disorder rather than paranoid personality disorder. Those with paranoid personality disorder tend to be distrustful and self-reliant. D: An inflated sense of self is more characteristic of narcissistic personality disorder rather than paranoid personality disorder. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder often have feelings of inadequacy or inferiority.