ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nurse Certification Questions
Question 1 of 5
An individual experiences sexual dysfunction and blames it on a partner by calling the person unattractive and unromantic. Which defense mechanism is evident?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Rationalization. In this scenario, the individual is justifying their own sexual dysfunction by attributing it to their partner's perceived shortcomings. Rationalization involves creating logical or socially acceptable reasons to justify one's behavior or feelings. In this case, the person is avoiding taking responsibility for their own issues by shifting the blame onto their partner. Incorrect Choices: B: Compensation - This defense mechanism involves making up for a real or perceived deficiency in one area by excelling in another. It does not apply to the situation described. C: Introjection - This involves internalizing external qualities or beliefs of others. It is not demonstrated in the scenario. D: Regression - This defense mechanism involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress. It is not applicable to the situation where blame is being shifted onto the partner.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse who is counseling a patient with dissociative identity disorder should understand that the assessment of highest priority is
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: risk for self-harm. This is the highest priority because individuals with dissociative identity disorder may experience suicidal ideation or engage in self-harming behaviors. Assessing for self-harm risk allows for immediate intervention to ensure the patient's safety. Summary of other choices: B: Cognitive function - While important, assessing cognitive function is not the highest priority compared to ensuring the patient's safety from self-harm. C: Memory impairment - Although memory impairment is common in dissociative identity disorder, it is not as urgent as addressing the risk of self-harm. D: Condition of self-esteem - While self-esteem may be a factor in the patient's well-being, addressing self-harm risk takes precedence in ensuring immediate safety.
Question 3 of 5
A soldier in a combat zone tells the nurse, "I saw a child get blown up over a year ago, and I still keep seeing bits of flesh everywhere. I see something red, and the visions race back to my mind." Which phenomenon associated with PTSD is the soldier describing?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Reexperiencing. The soldier's description aligns with the reexperiencing symptom of PTSD, where traumatic memories intrude into consciousness causing distress. This is evident as the soldier vividly recalls the traumatic event and experiences flashbacks triggered by red objects. Hyperarousal (B) involves heightened sensitivity to potential threats, not the vivid recall of traumatic events. Avoidance (C) refers to efforts to avoid reminders of the trauma, which is not the case here. Psychosis (D) involves a loss of touch with reality, such as hallucinations or delusions, which are not described in the scenario. In summary, the soldier's experience of intrusive memories and flashbacks corresponds to the reexperiencing symptom of PTSD.
Question 4 of 5
Which assessment data would help the health care team distinguish symptoms of conversion (functional neurological) disorder from symptoms of illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: - Choice B is correct as the style of presentation can help differentiate between conversion disorder (physical symptoms unconsciously manifested) and illness anxiety disorder (excessive health concerns). - Choice A (voluntary control) is incorrect as both conditions involve involuntary symptoms. - Choice C (diagnostic testing) is not definitive for differentiation as both disorders can have normal test results. - Choice D (secondary gains) is not specific to differentiating symptoms but rather focuses on potential motivations.
Question 5 of 5
Which comment by a patient who recently experienced a myocardial infarction indicates use of maladaptive, ineffective coping strategies?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the statement reflects a sense of entitlement or external locus of control, indicating maladaptive coping. The patient is placing blame on the employer instead of taking personal responsibility. Choice B shows reliance on family support, a healthy coping mechanism. Choice C demonstrates acceptance of the situation and willingness to make positive lifestyle changes. Choice D reflects acknowledgment of the condition and a decision-making process, which are adaptive coping strategies.