ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
After teaching a group of students about appraisal and the stress response, the instructor determines that additional teaching is needed when the students identify which of the following as part of the primary appraisal?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because outcome explanation is not part of primary appraisal. Primary appraisal involves evaluating the significance of an event in relation to one's well-being, focusing on factors such as relevance of the goal, consistency of goal with values, and personal commitment. Outcome explanation, on the other hand, is more related to secondary appraisal where one assesses potential coping strategies and their outcomes. Therefore, outcome explanation does not directly contribute to the initial evaluation of the event's impact on well-being, making it an inaccurate choice for primary appraisal.
Question 2 of 5
A group of nursing students is reviewing the various theories related to the etiology of schizophrenia. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which neurotransmitter as being responsible for hallucinations and delusions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why A (Dopamine) is the correct answer: 1. Dopamine hypothesis: Excess dopamine activity is linked to schizophrenia symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. 2. Studies show antipsychotic drugs targeting dopamine receptors effectively alleviate these symptoms. 3. Dopamine dysregulation theory: Suggests abnormalities in dopamine transmission contribute to schizophrenia. 4. Serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA are not directly implicated in hallucinations and delusions in schizophrenia.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is assessing a newly admitted client diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. The nurse assesses the client's level of anxiety and reactions to stressful situations, obtaining this information for which reason?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To act as a predictor of the client's risk for a suicide attempt. Assessing the client's level of anxiety and reactions to stressful situations is crucial in determining the likelihood of a suicide attempt, as individuals with schizoaffective disorder are at a higher risk for suicide. By understanding the client's anxiety levels and responses to stress, the nurse can intervene early to prevent potential harm. Choice A is incorrect because assessing anxiety levels is more focused on immediate risk factors rather than long-term outcomes. Choice B is incorrect because mental competency is typically assessed through other means. Choice D is incorrect as social skills evaluation is not the primary purpose of assessing anxiety levels in this context.
Question 4 of 5
A client is diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and is prescribed medication therapy. Which agent would the nurse expect to administer to the client to obtain the quickest relief from anxiety symptoms?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Alprazolam. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that works quickly to alleviate anxiety symptoms due to its rapid onset of action. It enhances the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity, providing immediate relief. Buspirone (A) may take weeks to reach full effect. Venlafaxine (B) is an SNRI that also takes time to show efficacy. Imipramine (D) is a tricyclic antidepressant with delayed onset of action and is not typically used as a first-line treatment for anxiety.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client with borderline personality disorder. Which question would be most appropriate to assess the client's level of impulsivity?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Have you ever felt sorry after acting as you did on the spur of the moment?" This question directly assesses the client's level of impulsivity by probing into their past impulsive actions and their subsequent feelings of regret. Impulsivity is characterized by acting without thinking of the consequences, often leading to regret afterwards. Choices A, C, and D do not directly address impulsivity but instead focus on the client's emotions, views on others, and dissociative experiences respectively, which are not specifically related to impulsivity.