ATI RN
Behavioral Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient says, "Please don't share information about me with the other people." How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is option A: "I will not share information with your family or friends without your permission, but I will share information about you with other staff." This response reflects the principles of confidentiality, autonomy, and teamwork in healthcare. In healthcare, patient information is confidential and should only be shared on a need-to-know basis among healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care. By promising not to disclose information to family or friends without permission, the nurse respects the patient's autonomy and right to privacy. However, sharing relevant information with other healthcare team members ensures coordinated and effective care for the patient. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because they either overpromise absolute confidentiality (which may not be ethically or practically feasible) or fail to emphasize the importance of teamwork and communication within the healthcare setting. While maintaining patient confidentiality is vital, it is equally important to collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for the patient. Educationally, this scenario teaches students about the delicate balance between patient confidentiality and the sharing of necessary information within the healthcare team. It highlights the ethical considerations and professional responsibilities of nurses in maintaining patient privacy while also promoting effective interprofessional communication and collaboration.
Question 2 of 5
When providing respectful, appropriate nursing care, how should the nurse identify the patient and his or her observable characteristics?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In behavioral nursing, it is crucial to provide person-centered care that respects the individuality and dignity of each patient. The correct answer, option D, "The patient in room 234 is displaying manic behavior," is the most appropriate because it focuses on the patient's behavior rather than labeling the patient themselves. Option A, "The manic patient in room 234," labels the patient by their condition, which can be stigmatizing and dehumanizing. Option B, "The patient in room 234 is a manic," also labels the patient and suggests that their condition defines them entirely. Option C, "The patient in room 234 is possibly a manic," introduces uncertainty and does not provide a clear, objective observation. Educationally, it is important for nurses to use non-stigmatizing language and focus on behaviors rather than labels when describing patients. This approach promotes a therapeutic relationship, fosters respect, and upholds the patient's dignity. By emphasizing observable behaviors, nurses can provide more accurate assessments and individualized care plans that address the patient's specific needs.
Question 3 of 5
A male patient reports to the nurse, 'I'm told I have memories of childhood abuse stored in my unconscious mind. I want to work on this.' Based on this statement, what information should the nurse provide the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) To seek the help of a trained therapist to help uncover and deal with the trauma associated with those memories. This option is the most appropriate because it acknowledges the seriousness of childhood abuse trauma and the need for professional intervention to navigate such sensitive and complex issues. Option B) suggesting the use of defense mechanisms like suppression is incorrect as it encourages avoidance rather than addressing the underlying trauma. Suppressing memories can lead to long-term negative consequences on mental health. Option C) implying that psychodynamic therapy will quickly bring forth unconscious memories is misleading. Such therapy requires time and trust to explore deep-seated issues. Option D) recommending group sessions to identify underlying themes overlooks the individualized and often delicate nature of trauma recovery, which may not be suitable for group settings where personal trauma experiences could be triggering for others. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the appropriate responses to patients disclosing trauma. Encouraging patients to seek professional help from trained therapists ensures they receive the necessary support and care to address their past experiences effectively. Nurses play a pivotal role in connecting patients with appropriate resources for trauma recovery, promoting holistic well-being.
Question 4 of 5
Which theorist most influenced the professional practice of psychiatric nursing?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the field of psychiatric nursing, Hildegard Peplau is considered the most influential theorist due to her groundbreaking work in the development of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship. Peplau's Theory of Interpersonal Relations emphasizes the importance of the nurse's role in helping patients navigate through their emotional and psychological struggles. By focusing on the therapeutic relationship, Peplau revolutionized psychiatric nursing practice by highlighting the significance of empathy, trust, and communication in patient care. Harry Stack Sullivan is known for his interpersonal theory but his work mainly focuses on interpersonal relationships and communication patterns rather than specifically on psychiatric nursing practice. Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory and Ivan Pavlov's classical conditioning theory are more relevant to general psychology and behaviorism, rather than the specialized field of psychiatric nursing. Educationally, understanding the contributions of Hildegard Peplau is crucial for psychiatric nursing students as it provides a solid foundation in therapeutic communication skills and the importance of the nurse-patient relationship in promoting mental health and wellbeing. By studying Peplau's work, students can learn how to effectively engage with patients, develop trust, and provide holistic care in psychiatric settings.
Question 5 of 5
As you begin working with her, you notice Ms. V has an uncanny resemblance to your younger sister. As a child, this sister lied and criticized you constantly, then screamed and cried to others if you challenged her. You realize that you are responding negatively to this patient. What's going on here?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Countertransference. Countertransference occurs when a healthcare provider projects their feelings, attitudes, or unresolved conflicts onto a patient. In this case, the nurse is reacting negatively to Ms. V due to the unconscious transfer of feelings from their past experiences with their younger sister onto the patient. Option A) Mutuality refers to the sharing of emotions, experiences, and understanding between individuals, which is not applicable in this context. Option B) Self-System pertains to the individual's perception of themselves, which is not directly related to the nurse's reaction. Option C) Self-actualization is the process of realizing personal potential and self-fulfillment, which is not relevant to the nurse's response to the patient. From an educational perspective, understanding countertransference is crucial in nursing practice as it can impact the therapeutic relationship and patient outcomes. Nurses need to be self-aware, recognize their biases, and seek supervision or support to address and manage countertransference reactions effectively for providing quality patient care. It is essential to acknowledge and process these emotions to prevent them from interfering with professional judgment and patient care.