ATI RN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A physically and emotionally healthy client has just been fired. During a routine office visit he states to a nurse: Perhaps this was the best thing to happen. Maybe Ill look into pursuing an art degree. How should the nurse characterize the clients appraisal of the job loss stressor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Challenging. The client's statement indicates a positive reframing of the job loss as an opportunity for personal growth. This suggests that the client views the situation as a challenge to adapt and pursue a new path. This perspective aligns with the concept of stress as a potential source of growth and development, known as the challenge appraisal. Summary: A: Irrelevant - The client's statement demonstrates relevance to his future plans, making this choice incorrect. B: Harm/loss - The client's positive outlook does not reflect a perception of harm or loss, making this choice incorrect. C: Threatening - The client's statement does not convey a perception of threat, making this choice incorrect.
Question 2 of 5
When an individuals stress response is sustained over a long period of time, which physiological effect of the endocrine system should a nurse anticipate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased resistance to disease. Prolonged stress can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses. Chronic stress suppresses immune functions, leading to decreased resistance to diseases. The other choices are incorrect because increased libido (B) and decreased blood pressure (C) are not typical physiological effects of sustained stress. While stress can lead to increased inflammatory response (D), the primary concern with chronic stress is its negative impact on the immune system, making choice A the most appropriate answer in this context.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is interviewing a distressed client, who relates being fired after 15 years of loyal employment. Which of the following questions would best assist the nurse to determine the clients appraisal of the situation? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "What resources have you used previously in stressful situations?" This question is the best choice as it focuses on understanding the client's coping mechanisms and resilience. By asking about previous resources used, the nurse can assess the client's strengths and support systems. Choice B is incorrect because asking if the client has experienced a similar situation does not directly address the client's current appraisal of the situation. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on assigning blame, which may not be helpful in understanding the client's perspective and emotions. Choice D is also incorrect because asking why the client thinks they were fired may lead to a defensive response and may not necessarily provide insight into the client's appraisal of the situation.
Question 4 of 5
At what point should the nurse determine that a client is at risk for developing a mental disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. When maladaptive responses to stress are coupled with interference in daily functioning, the nurse should determine that a client is at risk for developing a mental disorder. This is because maladaptive responses to stress, such as excessive worry or avoidance behaviors, can be early signs of mental health issues. When these responses start impacting daily functioning, such as affecting work or relationships, it indicates a higher level of risk for a mental disorder. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not specifically address the combination of maladaptive responses to stress and interference in daily functioning, which are key indicators of potential mental health issues.
Question 5 of 5
During an intake assessment, a nurse asks both physiological and psychosocial questions. The client angrily responds, Im here for my heart, not my head problems. Which is the nurses best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it directly addresses the client's resistance by providing relevant information linking psychological factors to medical conditions. By explaining the impact of stress on health, the nurse demonstrates the importance of addressing psychosocial aspects during the assessment. Choice A is incorrect as it does not acknowledge the client's concerns and may come off as dismissive. Choice B is also incorrect as it focuses on the client's feelings rather than providing information to address the issue. Choice D is incorrect as it offers to skip the questions, which goes against the best practice of conducting a comprehensive assessment.