ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
According to Freud, which statement should a nurse associate with predominance of the superego?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: According to Freud's psychoanalytic theory, the superego represents the moral conscience or the internalized standards and values of society. It acts as a person's "conscience" and strives for perfection by suppressing the urges of the id and influencing behavior to align with moral standards and societal norms. In this case, the statement "I dont ever cheat on tests; it is wrong" reflects the predominance of the superego as it demonstrates a strong adherence to moral values and a sense of right and wrong. The individual's behavior is guided by their moral conscience, which is a key characteristic associated with the superego.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse practitioner plans to use a psychoanalytical framework when treating a client diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Which would be the focus of this nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The focus of using a psychoanalytical framework when treating a client diagnosed with an anxiety disorder would involve exploring behaviors and defense mechanisms associated with the superego. In psychoanalytic theory, the superego represents internalized moral standards and values. By exploring the client's behaviors and defense mechanisms related to the superego, the nurse practitioner can gain insight into the client's unconscious conflicts and how these may be contributing to the anxiety disorder. This approach involves delving into the client's past experiences, childhood upbringing, and psychosexual development to identify underlying issues affecting their current mental state. It allows for a deeper understanding of the client's psychological dynamics and enables the nurse practitioner to tailor interventions that address the root causes of the anxiety disorder.
Question 3 of 5
A depressed client states, I have a chemical imbalance in my brain. I have no control over my behavior. Medications are my only hope to feel normal again. Which nursing response is appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's perspective and beliefs about their depression being solely due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, it is also essential to educate the client about the complex interplay between biological, environmental, and interpersonal factors in mental health. By expressing that medications are one way to address chemical imbalances but pointing out that other factors can also impact mental health, the nurse encourages a more holistic view of mental well-being. This response opens up the conversation to the possibility of exploring various treatment options beyond just medication, such as therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support. It promotes a collaborative approach to managing depression that considers the individual as a whole rather than focusing solely on biological factors.
Question 4 of 5
A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons. In schizophrenia, there can be imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These imbalances can contribute to symptoms like emotional blunting, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal. Therefore, in the case of a withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia who expresses little emotion and refuses group therapy, the nurse should recognize that altered neurotransmitter function is implicated in this behavior. It is crucial to address these neurotransmitter imbalances through appropriate medications and interventions to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the client's overall well-being.
Question 5 of 5
Which mental illness should a nurse identify as being associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone level?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Anorexia nervosa is a mental illness that is typically associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone levels. Prolactin is responsible for various functions in the body, including milk production in females. In individuals with anorexia nervosa, the body experiences hormonal imbalances due to malnutrition and extreme weight loss, leading to decreased levels of prolactin. Therefore, a nurse should identify anorexia nervosa as the mental illness associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone level.