ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
Family members describe the patient as 'a difficult person who finds fault with others.' The patient verbally abuses nurses for their poor care. The most likely explanation lies in
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: a personality style that externalizes problems. This is likely the most accurate explanation because the patient's behavior of finding fault with others and verbally abusing nurses suggests a tendency to blame external factors for their own problems, rather than taking responsibility. This is characteristic of a personality style that externalizes problems, where individuals attribute their issues to others or external circumstances. Poor childrearing (choice A) may contribute, but it doesn't directly address the behavior described. Automatic thinking and cognitive distortions (choice B) are related to cognitive processes, not personality styles. Delusions of harm (choice D) are not mentioned in the scenario.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse is planning a support group for the families of patients with psychiatric disorders. The nurse integrates knowledge of which of the following as the primary underlying issue related to stress that the families experience?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Stigma associated with the diagnosis. Stigma can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and discrimination for families of patients with psychiatric disorders, causing significant stress. Families may struggle with societal judgment and misconceptions about mental illness, impacting their ability to seek support and cope effectively. Understanding and addressing stigma is crucial in supporting families. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: A: Severity of the patient's symptoms - While the severity of symptoms can be distressing for families, it is not the primary underlying issue related to stress. B: Barriers faced by the patient - Although barriers faced by the patient can contribute to stress, it is not the primary underlying issue experienced by families. D: Risk for relapse - While the risk for relapse can be a concern, it is not necessarily the primary underlying issue related to stress for families of patients with psychiatric disorders.
Question 3 of 9
What are the three types of delirium?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: hyperactive, hypoactive, and mixed. Hyperactive delirium involves agitation and restlessness, hypoactive delirium is characterized by reduced activity and lethargy, and mixed delirium includes features of both hyperactive and hypoactive states. Choice A is incorrect as depression is not a type of delirium. Choice B is incorrect as confusion is a symptom found in all types of delirium, not a distinct type. Choice C is incorrect as dementia is a separate condition from delirium.
Question 4 of 9
Which activity is most appropriate for a child with ADHD?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Tennis. Physical activities like tennis are beneficial for children with ADHD as they help release excess energy and improve focus. Tennis involves physical movement, coordination, and strategy, which can enhance concentration and self-regulation skills. Reading an adventure novel (A) may be too sedentary for a child with ADHD, limiting their ability to focus. Monopoly (B) and Checkers (C) are good for cognitive development but may not provide enough physical activity to help manage ADHD symptoms effectively. Tennis, on the other hand, offers a combination of physical exercise and mental engagement, making it the most appropriate choice for a child with ADHD.
Question 5 of 9
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia tells the nurse, "The Central Intelligence Agency is monitoring us through the fluorescent lights in this room. The CIA is everywhere, so be careful what you say." Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it validates the patient's feelings without directly challenging their delusion. By acknowledging the patient's concern about privacy, the nurse shows empathy and maintains a therapeutic relationship. Choice A avoids addressing the patient's underlying fear and may be dismissive. Choice C provides factual information but does not address the patient's emotional needs. Choice D uses confrontational language and may increase the patient's distress by labeling their belief as a symptom of illness. Overall, option B demonstrates empathy and builds rapport with the patient, which is crucial in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia.
Question 6 of 9
A patient who was responding to auditory hallucinations earlier in the morning now approaches the nurse shaking a fist and shouts, 'Back off!' and then goes to the dayroom. While following the patient into the dayroom, the nurse should
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, as it prioritizes safety by ensuring physical space between the nurse and the patient, reducing the risk of potential harm. By creating distance, the nurse can prevent escalation and maintain a safe environment for both parties. This approach allows for de-escalation and assessment of the situation without provoking further agitation. Choice B is incorrect as it may trap the patient and limit their options, potentially increasing their distress. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining a fixed distance may not be sufficient if the patient becomes physically aggressive. Choice D is incorrect as immediately engaging in conversation may exacerbate the situation and lead to further agitation.
Question 7 of 9
After working with a patient who has a history of violent behavior to identify possible clues that suggest that his behavior is escalating, the nurse and patient develop a plan for prevention. Which strategy would they be least likely to include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Turning up the music loud. This strategy would be least likely to be included because it does not directly address the escalation of violent behavior. Counting to 10 and taking slow deep breaths are both commonly used techniques to help manage anger and prevent escalation. Taking a voluntary time out is also effective in creating a safe space to de-escalate. Turning up the music loud may serve as a distraction, but it does not actively address the underlying issues or help the patient stay in control of their emotions.
Question 8 of 9
The nurse is assessing an Asian American patient. During the interview, the nurse determines that the patient likely follows Taoism based on which statement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because Taoism emphasizes harmony with nature and living in balance. This statement reflects Taoist principles of aligning oneself with the natural order and finding contentment in living in harmony with the world. Explanation: - A: While purity and balance are important concepts in Taoism, this statement does not directly relate to Taoist beliefs about harmony with nature. - C: Respecting nature's powers is a general concept that may align with various belief systems, but it does not specifically indicate Taoism. - D: This statement about worshipping God out of love is more characteristic of monotheistic religions like Christianity or Islam, not Taoism which does not focus on a personal God.
Question 9 of 9
Which patient is the best candidate for brief psychodynamic therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because brief psychodynamic therapy is typically suitable for individuals with specific, time-limited issues like the aftermath of an extramarital affair. This type of therapy focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts and patterns related to the specific problem. Choices B, C, and D present more complex and severe issues that would likely require longer-term or more intensive therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or medical interventions. It is important to match the therapy approach to the individual's needs and presenting concerns.