ATI RN
Psychiatric Emergency Questions
Question 1 of 5
A teenager in a group is reading a handout but interrupts his peers and talks about pets. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because redirecting the teenager to read the handout helps maintain focus on the intended activity, promoting group participation and learning. This action teaches respectful behavior and reinforces the importance of staying on topic. Asking him to leave (B) is too harsh and may isolate him. Encouraging a pet discussion (C) rewards off-task behavior. Ignoring (D) may signal that distractions are acceptable.
Question 2 of 5
A young adult male client is admitted to the psychiatric unit because of a recent suicide attempt. His wife filed for divorce 6 months ago, he lost his job 3 months ago, and his best friend moved to another city 2 weeks ago. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage activities that allow the client to exert control over his environment. This intervention empowers the client, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy, which can help improve his mental health. By engaging in activities that provide a sense of control, the client may feel more motivated and hopeful. Incorrect choices: B: Providing constant supervision may be necessary in acute situations but does not address the underlying issues of lack of control and self-esteem. C: Limiting interactions with other clients may lead to social isolation, which is not beneficial for the client's recovery and may exacerbate feelings of loneliness. D: Administering sedative medications may address symptoms temporarily but does not address the root causes of the client's distress. It does not promote empowerment or coping skills development.
Question 3 of 5
Pt is mad at mom for turning him in and wants mom to bring belongings and does not want to talk to her. What action does the nurse need to take before the visit?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because discussing methods of clear communication is essential to address Pt's anger and facilitate a productive interaction with his mom. By helping Pt express his feelings effectively, misunderstandings can be minimized. Choice B is incorrect as simply allowing the client to express anger may not lead to resolution. Choice C is incorrect as forgiveness should be a personal decision, not forced. Choice D is incorrect as postponing the visit does not address the underlying communication issues.
Question 4 of 5
A client who is being treated with lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder develops diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider of the symptoms prior to the next administration of the drug because these symptoms could indicate lithium toxicity. The healthcare provider needs to assess the client's condition and determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted or if other interventions are necessary. A: Administering an antidote without consulting the healthcare provider could be dangerous and inappropriate without proper evaluation. C: Diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness are not normal side effects of lithium and may indicate a problem that requires intervention. D: Holding the medication without consulting the healthcare provider could lead to abrupt withdrawal and potential rebound symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
A male client turns over a table in the dayroom of a psychiatric unit and threatens to throw a chair at another client. Which action is most important for the nurse to implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Obtain staff assistance to help diffuse the escalating situation. This is the most important action because it prioritizes safety by involving more staff to manage the potentially dangerous situation. It ensures a team approach to address the aggressive behavior, reduces the risk of harm to others, and increases the likelihood of a successful de-escalation. Administering sedative medication (B) should only be considered as a last resort to ensure safety. Confronting the client (C) may escalate the situation further. Moving other clients to a safe area (D) is important but not as immediate or effective as obtaining staff assistance.