ATI RN
Psychiatry Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
A patient tries to gouge out their eye in response to auditory hallucinations. The nurse would analyze this behavior as indicating:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Self-harm in response to hallucinations reflects impaired ability to control impulses and respond safely to internal stimuli.
Question 2 of 9
Which intervention will the nurse planning care for a patient with acute grief implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Providing information about grief is an important intervention for individuals experiencing acute grief. It helps the patient understand their emotional reactions and the natural process of grieving, reducing feelings of isolation or confusion.
Question 3 of 9
In the ECT treatment preparation period the morning of treatment, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action during the ECT treatment preparation period the morning of treatment is to adequately hydrate the patient. Ensuring that the patient is properly hydrated before the procedure is crucial for their safety and well-being. Hydration helps optimize the effects of the treatment and can support the patient's recovery post-treatment. It is important to maintain the patient's fluid balance as ECT can sometimes cause side effects such as nausea, headache, and muscle aches, which can be worsened if the patient is not adequately hydrated. Additionally, hydration can help prevent complications such as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances during and after the ECT procedure.
Question 4 of 9
When asked, “Why do you go to music therapy every morning at 10?” The nurse explains that the nurse’s role in music therapy as:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse's role in music therapy is to note patient verbal and nonverbal expression of feelings. In music therapy, the focus is on using music as a tool to help patients express themselves, connect with their emotions, and communicate their feelings in a non-verbal manner. The nurse's job is to observe and interpret how the patients are engaging with the music and using it as a medium to express their inner thoughts and emotions. This can help in promoting emotional well-being and providing a space for patients to process their feelings in a therapeutic way.
Question 5 of 9
Immediately after electroconvulsive therapy, in which position should a nurse place the client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Immediately after ECT, the patient may still be recovering from the effects of muscle relaxants and the seizure. Positioning the client on their side helps prevent aspiration in case of vomiting and maintains an open airwa
Question 6 of 9
Before assessing a new patient, a nurse is told by another health care worker, "I know that patient. No matter how hard we work, there isn’t much improvement by the time of discharge." The nurse’s responsibility is to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A nurse should maintain objectivity and conduct their own assessment, considering all sources of information.
Question 7 of 9
Which statement would the nurse use to describe the primary purpose of boundaries?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Boundaries define responsibilities and duties to one’s self in relation to others. Setting boundaries is essential in establishing a safe and professional therapeutic relationship between a nurse and a patient. These boundaries help to create a clear understanding of each person's roles and responsibilities within the relationship. Boundaries also help protect both the nurse and the patient from potential harm, maintain professionalism, and ensure effective communication and focus on the therapeutic goals. By defining these boundaries, the nurse can better maintain appropriate relationships with patients and avoid conflicts of interest or ethical dilemmas.
Question 8 of 9
An advanced practice nurse is qualified to perform which action for patients?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Advanced practice nurses, such as psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners, are qualified to prescribe medications, including psychotropics, as part of their expanded scope of practice. Other listed actions can also be performed by registered nurses.
Question 9 of 9
By discharge, which outcome is appropriate for a patient who hears voices telling them they are evil?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Identifying triggers for hallucinations is a key step in managing symptoms effectively