During the initial nursing interview, a client tells the nurse, 'Sometimes my thoughts go so fast. Wonder if I can sell my fast car. Work is so boring. I wonder if I can get a transfer. Is it time to eat yet?' Which documentation should the nurse use to describe the client's statements?

Questions 129

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

Psychiatric Emergency Questions

Question 1 of 5

During the initial nursing interview, a client tells the nurse, 'Sometimes my thoughts go so fast. Wonder if I can sell my fast car. Work is so boring. I wonder if I can get a transfer. Is it time to eat yet?' Which documentation should the nurse use to describe the client's statements?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Exhibits tangential thinking. In this scenario, the client's statements lack logical connection and go off on tangents, such as thoughts about selling a car, work, and eating. This is characteristic of tangential thinking, where the individual struggles to maintain focus and coherence in their thoughts. Thought-blocking (A) refers to sudden interruption in the train of thought, incoherent speech (B) involves disorganized and unintelligible language, and word salad (D) is a severe form of incoherence where words are jumbled and meaningless. These choices do not accurately describe the client's statements in this context.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse is planning care for a depressed client. Which approach is most therapeutic?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, allowing the client time to complete activities. This approach is therapeutic as it promotes autonomy and self-efficacy, which are crucial in managing depression. By giving the client the freedom to complete activities at their own pace, it fosters a sense of control and empowerment. Encouraging participation in group therapy (B) can also be beneficial, but it may not be as effective if the client is not ready or willing. Setting strict deadlines (C) can increase stress and worsen depressive symptoms. Providing constant supervision (D) may feel intrusive and undermine the client's independence. Ultimately, choice A aligns with the principles of client-centered care and empowerment, making it the most therapeutic approach in this scenario.

Question 3 of 5

A teenager in a group is reading a handout but interrupts his peers and talks about pets. What action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because redirecting the teenager to read the handout helps maintain focus on the intended activity, promoting group participation and learning. This action teaches respectful behavior and reinforces the importance of staying on topic. Asking him to leave (B) is too harsh and may isolate him. Encouraging a pet discussion (C) rewards off-task behavior. Ignoring (D) may signal that distractions are acceptable.

Question 4 of 5

When preparing to administer a domestic violence screening tool to a female client, which statement should the RN provide?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of screening all clients for domestic abuse, as it is common and often underreported. B. While ensuring the client's safety is important, it does not address the prevalence of domestic violence in society. C. Domestic abuse screening may not be required by law in all jurisdictions, making this statement inaccurate. D. All clients should be encouraged to participate in screening to identify potential abuse, regardless of personal comfort levels.

Question 5 of 5

A young adult male client is admitted to the psychiatric unit because of a recent suicide attempt. His wife filed for divorce 6 months ago, he lost his job 3 months ago, and his best friend moved to another city 2 weeks ago. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's plan of care?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage activities that allow the client to exert control over his environment. This intervention empowers the client, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy, which can help improve his mental health. By engaging in activities that provide a sense of control, the client may feel more motivated and hopeful. Incorrect choices: B: Providing constant supervision may be necessary in acute situations but does not address the underlying issues of lack of control and self-esteem. C: Limiting interactions with other clients may lead to social isolation, which is not beneficial for the client's recovery and may exacerbate feelings of loneliness. D: Administering sedative medications may address symptoms temporarily but does not address the root causes of the client's distress. It does not promote empowerment or coping skills development.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions