A patient was admitted to the psychiatric unit 3 days ago because of suicidal ideation. His suicidal risk has lessened considerably, and he currently denies having any desire to kill himself. In addition, he is able to identify reasons why he wants to be alive. Which nursing intervention would be most appropriate at this time?

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ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019 70 Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

A patient was admitted to the psychiatric unit 3 days ago because of suicidal ideation. His suicidal risk has lessened considerably, and he currently denies having any desire to kill himself. In addition, he is able to identify reasons why he wants to be alive. Which nursing intervention would be most appropriate at this time?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Developing a personal plan for managing suicidal thoughts when they occur. This is the most appropriate intervention at this time because the patient's suicidal risk has lessened considerably and he is able to identify reasons for wanting to live. By creating a personalized plan, the patient can learn coping strategies and techniques to manage suicidal thoughts if they resurface in the future. This empowers the patient to take control of their mental health and provides them with tools to prevent future crises. Incorrect Choices: A: Assigning nursing staff to stay with him during his suicidal crisis - This is not necessary as the patient's suicidal risk has considerably lessened. C: Advising the patient that he should consider electroconvulsive therapy treatments - This is an extreme intervention that is not warranted based on the current improvement in the patient's condition. D: Administering psychotropic drugs that decrease the patient's serotonin levels - This intervention is not appropriate as the patient's current state does not indicate the need for immediate

Question 2 of 5

While caring for a client with anorexia nervosa, the nurse anticipates that the client would have difficulty making which of the following comments?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it indicates a willingness to gain weight, which contradicts the typical behavior of someone with anorexia nervosa. Individuals with anorexia nervosa often have a fear of gaining weight and resist efforts to do so. Choice B is incorrect because it reflects the perfectionism often associated with anorexia nervosa. Choice C is incorrect because it reflects the fear of weight gain commonly seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa. Choice D is incorrect because it highlights the preoccupation with food and calories that is characteristic of anorexia nervosa.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse is beginning an assessment interview with an 8-year-old girl who has been brought in for counseling by her parents. When beginning the interview, which question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask first?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Has anyone told you about why you are here today? This question is the most appropriate as it helps establish the child's understanding of the situation and allows the nurse to assess the child's level of awareness and perception. By asking this question first, the nurse can ensure the child is informed and prepared for the counseling session. Choice A (How are you feeling?) is not the best first question as it jumps straight into emotions without setting the context. Choice B (How old are you?) is irrelevant and does not address the purpose of the counseling session. Choice D (Why do you think I'm talking to you alone without your parents here?) may make the child feel defensive or anxious, and it assumes the child has already formed opinions about the situation.

Question 4 of 5

A nurse working in an emergency homeless shelter is interviewing a woman who has just arrived with her two small children. When assessing this client, the nurse would expect the woman to report which of the following as the reason for seeking shelter?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Domestic violence. In a situation where a woman arrives at an emergency homeless shelter with her children, domestic violence is the most likely reason for seeking shelter. Victims of domestic violence often flee their homes to escape abuse, seeking safety and shelter for themselves and their children. Substance abuse (A), unemployment (C), and imprisonment (D) are possible contributing factors to homelessness but are less likely to be the immediate reason for seeking emergency shelter in this scenario.

Question 5 of 5

An adult says, 'Most of the time I'm happy and feel good about myself. I have learned that what I get out of something is proportional to the effort I put into it.' Which number on this mental health continuum should the nurse select?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D (4) on the mental health continuum. The statement indicates a high level of mental well-being, self-esteem, and understanding of the relationship between effort and outcomes, aligning with Level 4. This level signifies positive self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and the ability to cope effectively with life's challenges. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they represent lower levels of mental health with characteristics such as low self-esteem, negative emotions, and difficulty coping with stressors.

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