ATI RN
Nursing Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient undergoing diagnostic tests says, "Nothing is wrong with me except a stubborn chest col" The spouse reports the patient smokes, coughs daily, lost 15 pounds, and is easily fatigue Which defense mechanism is the patient using?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Denial. This defense mechanism involves refusing to acknowledge a stressful situation or reality. In this case, the patient is denying their serious health issues by attributing it to just a "stubborn chest cold." The patient's symptoms of smoking, daily coughing, weight loss, and fatigue indicate a more significant health concern that is being downplayed through denial. A: Displacement involves redirecting emotions from the original source to a less threatening target, not applicable here. B: Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in the face of stress, not relevant to the scenario. C: Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others, not demonstrated in this situation. In summary, denial is the most appropriate defense mechanism as it aligns with the patient's refusal to acknowledge the seriousness of their health issues.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who is hospitalized with depression tells the nurse, 'I don't want to take the medication because I'm afraid I'll become suicidal.' Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates the nurse's understanding of the patient's concerns and addresses the issue of suicidal ideation directly. By asking about suicidal thoughts, the nurse can assess the patient's risk and provide appropriate interventions. Choice B is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's fear without addressing the underlying problem. Choice C is incorrect as it validates the patient's refusal without addressing the safety concern. Choice D is incorrect as it compares the patient to another individual and does not address the specific issue of suicidal thoughts.
Question 3 of 5
A group of nursing students is reviewing information about cognitive processes and the development of mental disorders. The students demonstrate a need for additional review when they identify which of the following as being involved?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Compliments. The other choices (A: Cognitive triad, B: Cognitive distortions, C: Schema) are all related to cognitive processes and the development of mental disorders, but compliments are not. Cognitive triad refers to negative thoughts about self, world, and future; cognitive distortions are irrational thought patterns; and schema are ingrained beliefs that influence perception. Compliments, in contrast, are positive statements that boost self-esteem and are not typically associated with cognitive processes leading to mental disorders. Therefore, the nursing students need additional review on this topic.
Question 4 of 5
An older patient tells the nurse that she is becoming more forgetful. The nurse explains to the patient that this is most likely related to which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Medications. Older patients commonly experience medication side effects that can cause memory issues. Medications like sedatives, antihistamines, and benzodiazepines can impair memory. This is a logical explanation as the patient's forgetfulness could be a result of medication-induced cognitive impairment. Explanation for other choices: A: Anxiety - While anxiety can affect memory, it is less likely to be the primary cause of cognitive decline in an older patient. B: Organic brain syndrome - This term is broad and not specific enough to pinpoint the cause of the forgetfulness in this scenario. C: Plaques in the brain tissue - Plaques are commonly associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease, but there is no indication in the question that this patient's forgetfulness is due to this specific pathology.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is with an adolescent who tells the nurse that she has nothing to live for and she just wishes she was dead. Which nursing action would be the priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because staying with the patient to explore more of her thoughts about suicide is the priority. This allows the nurse to assess the severity of the situation, gather more information, provide immediate support, and establish rapport with the patient. It also helps in forming a safety plan and determining the level of risk. Choice A is incorrect because it does not address the immediate need for support and assessment. Choice C is incorrect as seclusion may escalate the situation and is not the best approach for someone expressing suicidal ideation. Choice D is incorrect as it is not the most immediate priority and does not directly address the patient's current emotional state.