ATI LPN
ATI Mental Health Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with panic disorder is prescribed alprazolam. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you. This is crucial because alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. It is important to prioritize safety and prevent accidents. Choice B is incorrect as alprazolam does not necessarily need to be taken with food. Choice C is incorrect as alprazolam is typically taken during the day due to its sedative effects. Choice D is incorrect as increasing the dose without medical guidance can lead to overdose and adverse effects.
Question 2 of 5
When a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol, what is a priority assessment for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome. This is because neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a potentially life-threatening side effect of haloperidol, characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. It requires immediate medical intervention. Assessing for tardive dyskinesia (A) is important but not as urgent as monitoring for neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Checking for signs of depression (C) is relevant but not a priority when the patient is at risk of a serious adverse reaction. Monitoring changes in appetite (D) is less critical than assessing for neuroleptic malignant syndrome, as it is a common side effect that does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's life.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Buspirone is not meant for immediate relief, so taking it consistently is crucial for its effectiveness. 2. Buspirone takes time to build up in the body and show its full effect, usually a few weeks. 3. Buspirone is known for having a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines. 4. Taking buspirone consistently is essential, unlike benzodiazepines which are often taken on an as-needed basis. Therefore, choice A is incorrect as it goes against the appropriate usage of buspirone for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
Question 4 of 5
Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient experiencing a severe manic episode?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a structured and low-stimulation environment can help reduce the intensity of the manic episode by providing predictability and minimizing triggers. This intervention promotes safety and stability for the patient. Option B may exacerbate the symptoms by overstimulating the patient. Option C may overwhelm the patient with information during a manic episode. Option D is risky as unsupervised time can lead to impulsive behaviors and potential harm.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spends hours washing their hands. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times. This option acknowledges the patient's need for hand washing while also setting boundaries. By allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times, the nurse can help establish a routine and gradually reduce the excessive hand washing behavior. Encouraging the patient to stop washing hands (A) may increase anxiety and resistance. Ignoring the behavior (C) can reinforce it. Setting strict limits (D) may cause distress and worsen the OCD symptoms. Option B strikes a balance between addressing the patient's needs and promoting healthier behaviors.