ATI RN
Mental Health Practice B ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
An individual experiences sexual dysfunction and blames it on a partner by calling the person unattractive and unromanti Which defense mechanism is evident?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Rationalization. Rationalization is a defense mechanism where individuals justify unacceptable behaviors or feelings by providing logical reasons or excuses. In this scenario, blaming the partner's attractiveness and romantic nature for one's sexual dysfunction is an example of rationalization. The individual is deflecting responsibility by attributing the issue to external factors. Summary of other choices: B: Compensation involves making up for a perceived weakness by emphasizing a strength. This is not evident in the scenario. C: Introjection involves internalizing external beliefs or values. Blaming the partner does not align with this defense mechanism. D: Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress or conflict. This is not demonstrated in the scenario.
Question 2 of 5
During an interview, a patient tells the nurse that he was recently let go from his job. As the interaction continues, the patient states, 'I was really overqualified for that position anyway. It was definitely below my area of expertise.' The nurse interprets this information as reflecting which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Intellectualization. Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where a person deals with emotional conflicts or stressors by focusing on the intellectual aspects of a situation rather than the emotional aspects. In this case, the patient is discussing their job loss in a detached, analytical manner by emphasizing their overqualification and expertise, which deflects from the emotional impact of losing the job. A: Denial involves refusing to acknowledge or accept a reality. The patient is not denying the job loss but rather rationalizing it. C: Projection involves attributing one's own thoughts, feelings, or motives to others. The patient is not projecting their own feelings onto someone else. D: Passive aggression involves expressing negative feelings indirectly. The patient's statement does not reflect indirect hostility, but rather a coping mechanism through intellectualization.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is leading a group on an adolescent psychiatric unit. A new member in the group is from out of state; his accent and his way of dressing set him apart from the other patients; and it is obvious that the group, for the most part, dislikes this patient. During the group session, the nurse has the members draw the emotion they are feeling and then has them present their drawings and explain them to the group. Which of the following would be the most effective way to address the group's dislike for the new member?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Compliment the patient when he presents his drawing. By complimenting the patient when he presents his drawing, the nurse can help shift the group's negative attitude towards the new member. This approach promotes positivity and encourages the group to see the new member in a different light. It also fosters a more supportive and inclusive environment within the group. Skipping him when it is his turn to present his drawing (choice A) would only further isolate the new member and perpetuate the negative feelings towards him. Letting the patient talk last so the others will not have time to make fun of him (choice B) does not address the underlying issue of dislike and may not effectively change the group dynamics. Demanding that each member of the group tell the patient why they dislike him (choice D) can be confrontational and may escalate the situation, leading to more negativity and hostility.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is working as part of a team to help reduce the stigma attached to mental health treatment for the older adult population. Which of the following would be most appropriate to do to achieve this outcome?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A: Provide education about mental health and mental disorders. Rationale: 1. Education increases awareness and understanding of mental health, reducing stigma. 2. Older adults can learn about common mental disorders and treatment options. 3. Education promotes early recognition of symptoms and encourages seeking help. 4. Screening programs (B) focus on detection, not stigma reduction. Integrated care (C) and social support (D) are important but not directly address stigma.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse determines that a patient has poor social skills that have interfered with his ability to engage others, which has contributed to his feelings of purposelessness, hopelessness, and withdrawal. Which of the following would be most important to assist the patient in beginning to social skills?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Nurse-patient relationship. Building a strong therapeutic alliance is crucial in addressing the patient's poor social skills. A trusting relationship with the nurse can provide a safe space for the patient to explore and improve their social interactions. The nurse can offer guidance, support, and feedback to help the patient develop social skills. Self-help and recovery groups may be beneficial later on, but initially, the focus should be on building a therapeutic relationship. Limit setting is not directly related to improving social skills and may not address the underlying issues contributing to the patient's difficulties.