ATI RN
Psychiatry Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
Immediately after electroconvulsive therapy, in which position should a nurse place the client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Immediately after ECT, the patient may still be recovering from the effects of muscle relaxants and the seizure. Positioning the client on their side helps prevent aspiration in case of vomiting and maintains an open airwa
Question 2 of 9
Which statement would the nurse use to describe the primary purpose of boundaries?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Boundaries define responsibilities and duties to one’s self in relation to others. Setting boundaries is essential in establishing a safe and professional therapeutic relationship between a nurse and a patient. These boundaries help to create a clear understanding of each person's roles and responsibilities within the relationship. Boundaries also help protect both the nurse and the patient from potential harm, maintain professionalism, and ensure effective communication and focus on the therapeutic goals. By defining these boundaries, the nurse can better maintain appropriate relationships with patients and avoid conflicts of interest or ethical dilemmas.
Question 3 of 9
Which patient would the nurse determine to be at highest risk for dysfunctional grief? The patient:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The patient whose 16-year-old daughter was raped and killed while going on an errand for the patient would be determined to be at highest risk for dysfunctional grief. This traumatic event involves sudden and violent loss of a child, which can lead to complicated or dysfunctional grief reactions. The circumstances of the death, involving violence, unexpectedness, and the close relationship with the deceased, can significantly impact the grieving process. The patient may struggle with intense emotions, guilt, anger, and unresolved trauma, making them more vulnerable to experiencing dysfunctional grief. It is essential for healthcare professionals to provide appropriate support and interventions to help the patient navigate through this complex grieving process.
Question 4 of 9
A nurse wants to assess for suicidal ideation in an elderly patient. Select the best question to begin this assessment.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: his open-ended question directly addresses the patient’s thoughts about suicide in the context of their current life situation, giving them an opportunity to express any concerns or ideations.
Question 5 of 9
Which statement made by a teenage male hospitalized after a failed suicide attempt is most concerning to the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: This statement is concerning because it suggests the teenager may still have access to dangerous means (in this case, a gun) and may not fully understand or take responsibility for the gravity of his previous suicidal attempt. The attachment to the gun is alarming.
Question 6 of 9
When differentiating between bereavement symptoms and depression, the nurse will base the formulation on knowledge that in bereavement:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Bereavement involves waves of emotional pain, often triggered by reminders of the loss, whereas depression typically causes persistent symptoms such as guilt or hopelessness.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse, leading an inpatient group dealing with women’s issues, identifies a patient who is assuming the role of aggressor. Which behavior characterizes this role?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a group setting, a patient assuming the role of aggressor typically exhibits behaviors such as criticizing the contributions of others, being hostile, confrontational, and attempting to assert dominance. This behavior can create a negative and hostile environment in the group, undermining the therapeutic process. It is important for the nurse to recognize and address this behavior in order to promote a safe and supportive atmosphere for all group members to participate and benefit from the sessions.
Question 8 of 9
Which intervention will the nurse planning care for a patient with acute grief implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Providing information about grief is an important intervention for individuals experiencing acute grief. It helps the patient understand their emotional reactions and the natural process of grieving, reducing feelings of isolation or confusion.
Question 9 of 9
Before assessing a new patient, a nurse is told by another health care worker, "I know that patient. No matter how hard we work, there isn’t much improvement by the time of discharge." The nurse’s responsibility is to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A nurse should maintain objectivity and conduct their own assessment, considering all sources of information.