ATI RN
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
From an interpersonal theory perspective, which intervention would a nurse use to assist a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because family therapy sessions can help address underlying family dynamics contributing to the client's depression. This intervention aligns with interpersonal theory, which focuses on improving relationships and communication within the client's social network. Family therapy can enhance support systems and promote healthier interactions. Option B is incorrect as discussing childhood events may not directly address current interpersonal difficulties. Option C, teaching coping skills, is helpful but may not target the interpersonal issues specific to major depressive disorder. Option D, encouraging discussion of feelings, is important but may not address the broader interpersonal dynamics impacting the client's condition.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse concludes that a restless, agitated client is manifesting a fight-or-flight response. The nurse should associate this response with which neurotransmitter?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Norepinephrine. During the fight-or-flight response, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the release of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine increases heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, preparing the body to either fight or flee from a perceived threat. Dopamine (A) is more related to reward and pleasure. Serotonin (B) is involved in regulating mood and emotions. Cortisol (D) is a stress hormone, not a neurotransmitter involved in the fight-or-flight response.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse understands that the abnormal secretion of growth hormone may play a role in which illness?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anorexia nervosa. Growth hormone abnormalities can contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa by affecting metabolism and body composition. Increased levels of growth hormone can lead to muscle wasting and weight loss, which are common symptoms of anorexia nervosa. In contrast, schizophrenia is primarily associated with neurotransmitter imbalances, Alzheimer's disease is linked to neurodegeneration, and diabetes is often related to insulin abnormalities.
Question 4 of 5
A nursing instructor is teaching about the monoamine category of neurotransmitters. Which student statement indicates that learning about the function of norepinephrine has occurred?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because norepinephrine is primarily involved in regulating arousal, libido, and appetite. This neurotransmitter is released in response to stress or danger, increasing alertness and readiness for action. Choices A and C are incorrect because they describe the functions of serotonin and dopamine, respectively. Serotonin regulates mood, cognition, and perception, while dopamine is involved in pain modulation, inflammatory response, and wakefulness. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate in indicating learning about the function of norepinephrine.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following symptoms should a nurse expect to assess in a client experiencing elevated levels of thyroid hormone? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Emotional lability. Elevated levels of thyroid hormone can lead to increased emotional reactivity and mood swings. This is due to the impact of thyroid hormone on neurotransmitters in the brain. Depression (B) is more commonly associated with low thyroid hormone levels. Insomnia (C) can occur with both high and low thyroid hormone levels. Restlessness (D) is more indicative of hyperthyroidism, where there is excess thyroid hormone.