ATI RN
Behavioral Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A soldier who served in a combat zone returned to the United States. The soldier's spouse complains to the nurse, "We had planned to start a family, but now he won't talk about it. He won't even look at children." The spouse is describing which symptom associated with PTSD?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma results in the individual's avoiding talking about the event or avoiding activities, people, or places that arouse memories of the trauma. Avoidance is exemplified by a sense of foreshortened future and estrangement. There is no evidence this soldier is having hyperarousal or reexperiencing war-related traumas. Psychosis is not evident.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse assesses a patient diagnosed with conversion (functional neurological) disorder. Which comment is most likely from this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Patients with conversion (functional neurological) disorder demonstrate a lack of concern regarding the seriousness of symptoms. This lack of concern is termed la belle indifference. There is also a specific, identifiable cause for the development of the symptoms; in this instance, the death of a parent would precipitate stress. The distracters relate to sexual dysfunction and illness anxiety disorder.
Question 3 of 5
A patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder says, "Why has God chosen me to be sick all the time and unable to provide for my family? The burden on my family is worse than the pain I bear." Which nursing diagnoses apply to this patient? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct nursing diagnosis for the patient in this scenario is A) Spiritual distress. This diagnosis is appropriate because the patient is expressing feelings of questioning their faith and purpose in relation to their illness, indicating a spiritual struggle. This diagnosis focuses on the patient's beliefs and values, and the impact of these on their health and well-being. Option B) Decisional conflict is not the most appropriate choice in this case because the patient is not expressing uncertainty or indecision regarding treatment options or choices related to their care. Option C) Adult failure to thrive is not the best fit as this diagnosis typically refers to a decline in physical, emotional, or cognitive function that impacts a person's ability to meet basic needs, rather than a spiritual or existential struggle. Option D) Impaired social interaction does not align with the patient's statement about feeling burdened by their illness and its impact on their family. This diagnosis would be more relevant if the patient exhibited difficulties in engaging with others or maintaining relationships due to their condition. In an educational context, understanding and applying the correct nursing diagnosis is crucial for providing holistic care to patients. By selecting the appropriate diagnosis, nurses can address the patient's spiritual needs and provide support in a way that is meaningful and therapeutic. This case highlights the importance of considering the psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a patient's experience in addition to their physical symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
An adolescent was recently diagnosed with ODD. The parents say to the nurse, "Isn't there some medication that will help with this problem?" Select the nurse's best response.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The parents are seeking a quick solution. Medications are generally not indicated for ODD. Comorbid conditions that increase defiant symptoms, such as ADHD, should be managed with medication, but no comorbid problem is identified in the question. The nurse should give information on helpful strategies to manage the adolescent's behavior.
Question 5 of 5
An adult seeks counseling after the spouse was murdered. The adult angrily says, "I hate the beast that did this. It has ruined my life. During the trial, I don't know what I'll do if the jury doesn't return a guilty verdict." What is the nurse's highest priority response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct response is option D: "Are you having thoughts of hurting yourself or others?" This is the highest priority response because the individual's statement indicates intense anger and distress, which could potentially escalate to harmful thoughts or actions. The nurse needs to assess the client's risk of harm to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Option A suggests medication, which may be necessary at some point but is not the priority in this immediate situation. Option B focuses on resources, which is important but not as critical as assessing for safety. Option C addresses support from family and friends, which is valuable but does not directly address the potential for harm. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing cues indicating potential harm or risk in clients experiencing intense emotions. It emphasizes the need for nurses to prioritize safety assessments in such situations to provide appropriate care and support. Understanding the significance of addressing safety concerns promptly is crucial in mental health and behavioral nursing practice.