ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
As a nurse discharges a patient, the patient gives the nurse a card of appreciation made in an arts and crafts group. What is the nurse's best action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges the patient's thoughtfulness and the positive relationship between the nurse and patient. Accepting the card shows appreciation and fosters a sense of connection and trust. It also validates the patient's effort in making the card. Choice B is incorrect because it focuses solely on facility policies and may come off as cold and uncaring, potentially damaging the nurse-patient relationship. Choice C is incorrect because declining the card without acknowledging the patient's effort and the positive relationship may leave the patient feeling unappreciated. Choice D is incorrect as it assumes the patient wants to return for other activities when the situation is about expressing gratitude for the current experience.
Question 2 of 5
A black patient says to a white nurse, 'There's no sense talking about how I feel. You wouldn't understand because you live in a white world.' The nurse's best action would be to
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates active listening and empathy, inviting the patient to share their perspective. By asking for an example, the nurse acknowledges the patient's feelings and opens up a dialogue for better understanding. Explanation of other choices: A: This choice dismisses the patient's unique experiences and feelings, lacking empathy. C: This choice could come off as minimizing the patient's concerns and not addressing the core issue of feeling misunderstood. D: Changing the subject avoids addressing the patient's feelings and could lead to further disconnect.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. The patient states, 'I need to lose more weight.' What is the priority nursing diagnosis for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Disturbed body image. This is the priority nursing diagnosis because the patient's statement indicates a distorted perception of their own body, which is a core issue in anorexia nervosa. Addressing the patient's distorted body image is crucial in promoting positive self-perception and working towards recovery. Incorrect choices: A: Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements - While this is a common concern in anorexia nervosa, the patient's statement about needing to lose more weight indicates a deeper psychological issue that needs immediate attention. B: Ineffective coping - While coping strategies are important, the primary focus should be on addressing the distorted body image in this case. D: Risk for injury - While anorexia nervosa can lead to physical complications, the patient's statement does not directly suggest an immediate risk for injury, making this option less of a priority compared to addressing the distorted body image.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient reports hearing voices and states, 'The voices tell me to hurt myself.' What is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the priority in this situation is to ensure the patient's safety. By ensuring the patient is in a safe environment and assessing for suicidal thoughts and behaviors, the nurse can prevent harm to the patient. Encouraging reality-based activities (B) and providing reassurance (C) may not address the immediate risk of harm posed by the voices. Asking about the content of the voices and validating their experiences (D) may be important for understanding the patient's perspective, but safety should come first.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The patient states, 'I feel like I have failed in everything I've done.' What is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct Answer: C - Assess the patient for suicidal thoughts and plans. Rationale: 1. Suicidal ideation is a serious concern in major depressive disorder. 2. It is crucial to assess the patient's current risk for self-harm. 3. Assessing for suicidal thoughts and plans allows for appropriate safety measures to be implemented. 4. This intervention addresses the immediate safety of the patient. Summary: - Option A focuses on positivity but does not address the risk of harm. - Option B offers reassurance but does not directly address suicidal ideation. - Option D suggests a treatment modality but does not address the immediate safety concern.