ATI RN
Free Mental Health ATI Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
An adolescent asks a nurse conducting an assessment interview, "Why should I tell you anything? You'll just tell my parents whatever you find out." Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it acknowledges the adolescent's concerns about privacy while also emphasizing the importance of safety and appropriate reporting. By mentioning that certain information, like suicidal thoughts, must be shared with the treatment team, the nurse maintains transparency and prioritizes the well-being of the adolescent. This response respects confidentiality while also upholding ethical and legal obligations to ensure the adolescent's safety. Choice A is incorrect because it inaccurately states that information shared with the nurse is completely confidential, which may not be the case in situations involving potential harm to the individual or others. Choice B is incorrect because it dismisses the adolescent's concerns about privacy and does not address the specific issue of mandatory reporting for certain serious matters. Choice D is incorrect because it does not address the core issue raised by the adolescent and may come across as judgmental or dismissive of their feelings and concerns.
Question 2 of 9
A group of nursing students is reviewing information about the course of aging in future older adults and qualities that contribute to successful aging. The students demonstrate understanding of this information when they identify which of the following as least important?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Physical health. Successful aging is not solely dependent on physical health, as individuals can still age successfully despite some physical health challenges. Capacity to adapt to change, engagement in life, and stability with reliable social support are key qualities that contribute significantly to successful aging. Adapting to changes helps individuals cope with life transitions, staying engaged in life promotes mental well-being, and having stable social support enhances overall quality of life. Therefore, physical health, while important, is considered least important compared to the other qualities in contributing to successful aging.
Question 3 of 9
A group of students are reviewing the process of verbal communication. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which of the following as the first component of the process?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Formulation of an idea. This is the first component of the process of verbal communication because it involves generating thoughts and ideas that need to be communicated. Before encoding a message (B), transmitting it (C), or receiving a message (D), one must first formulate the idea that they want to express. Encoding and transmission come after formulating the idea. Message reception is the final step in the process, where the receiver interprets and understands the message. Therefore, understanding the process of verbal communication starts with formulating an idea.
Question 4 of 9
A patient who has attempted suicide has an underlying diagnosis of depression. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate being ordered for the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are commonly prescribed for depression due to their effectiveness in improving mood and reducing suicidal ideation. They are considered first-line treatment for depression. Mood stabilizers (B) are typically used for bipolar disorder, not major depressive disorder. Tricyclic antidepressants (C) have more side effects and are not as commonly prescribed as SSRIs. Atypical antipsychotics (D) are often used as adjunctive therapy for depression with psychotic features, but SSRIs are the primary treatment choice for depression without psychotic symptoms.
Question 5 of 9
A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a female client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing acute mania. Which of the following would be most appropriate for the nurse to do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allow the client to participate in the treatment decision. Involving the client in the treatment decision-making process empowers them and promotes autonomy, which is important in mental health care. It also helps build trust and rapport. Choice A is incorrect as it may lead to resistance and conflict. Choice C is inappropriate and a violation of the client's rights unless there is an imminent risk of harm. Choice D is not the most appropriate initial action, as involving the client directly in their care should be prioritized.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse is counseling a family whose 4-year-old child has mild mental retardation. The nurse is working with the family on realistic long-term goals. Which of the following would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Achieving independent functioning of the child as an adult. This is the most appropriate long-term goal as it focuses on empowering the child to lead a fulfilling and independent life despite their condition. It emphasizes working towards maximizing the child's potential and enhancing their quality of life. A: Locating suitable residential placement for the child is not the most appropriate long-term goal as it does not focus on the child's independence and potential growth. B: Finding a foster home for the child is not suitable as it does not address the child's long-term development and independence. D: Preventing the onset of psychiatric disorders in the child is important but may not be the most relevant long-term goal as it does not directly address the child's mental retardation or focus on their independent functioning as an adult.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse is explaining recovery to the family of a patient diagnosed with a mental disorder. Which statement would be most appropriate for the nurse to include about this process?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because recovery in mental health focuses on helping the patient live a meaningful life to their fullest potential. This statement aligns with the recovery model which emphasizes empowerment, hope, and self-determination. Choice A is incorrect as recovery is not always a linear process. Choice B is incorrect as recovery involves addressing various aspects of the individual's life, not just emotions. Choice D is incorrect because while peer support and self-acceptance are essential, they are not the sole focus of the recovery process. Overall, choice C best reflects the holistic approach to mental health recovery.
Question 8 of 9
Which statement made by a new mother should be explored further by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the statement suggests a potential misunderstanding or negative perception of the baby's behavior. The nurse should explore further to address any underlying issues, provide education, and offer support. Choice A is a personal decision. Choice C reflects a common desire for support. Choice D is a general acknowledgment of the challenges of parenting. By exploring statement B, the nurse can ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is planning to explain the purpose of the behavioral therapy technique of self-monitoring to a client with bulimia nervosa. The nurse would emphasize keeping a diary to record which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Environmental stimuli. Self-monitoring in behavioral therapy for bulimia nervosa involves tracking external triggers like locations, people, or activities that may lead to binge eating. This helps the client identify patterns and develop strategies to cope with or avoid these triggers. Choice A (Feelings of hunger) focuses on internal cues, which are not the primary target of self-monitoring in bulimia nervosa. Choice B (Efforts at distraction) is not typically recorded in a self-monitoring diary but may be addressed through other therapeutic techniques. Choice D (Rigid rules about eating) is more related to cognitive restructuring rather than self-monitoring of environmental stimuli.