ATI RN
2019 ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
In the emergency department, the nurse assesses a client who is aggressive and experiencing auditory hallucinations. The client states,"The CIA is plotting to kill me." To which mental health setting would the nurse expect this client to be admitted?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Short-term, inpatient, locked unit. This setting is appropriate because the client is exhibiting acute symptoms of aggression and auditory hallucinations, indicating a need for close monitoring and safety precautions in a secure environment. Long-term inpatient facility (choice A) is not suitable for acute episodes. Day treatment (choice B) may not provide the level of supervision needed. Psychiatric case management (choice D) focuses on community-based care, not acute inpatient care. Therefore, choice C is the most appropriate for managing the client's current symptoms.
Question 2 of 5
Johnny is twelve-year-old boy who has had an increase in aggressive behaviors, picking fights with other students at his school. Johnny's mother calls his doctor's office to ask if there is medication to help decrease these behaviors. After gathering more information about the recent increase in Johnny's outbursts, what is the best response from the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Medication may not be indicated right away; there are other options. Rationale: 1. Medication should not be the first line of intervention for behavior issues in children. 2. It is important to explore other options such as therapy, counseling, behavior modification techniques. 3. Understanding the root cause of Johnny's behavior is crucial before considering medication. 4. Rushing into medication without exploring other avenues may not address the underlying issues. Summary: A: Allowing more freedom at home could potentially worsen Johnny's behavior by reinforcing the negative actions. C: Telling Johnny his behavior is unacceptable without addressing the underlying cause may not effectively reduce his aggression. D: Allowing Johnny to skip school is not a solution; addressing the behavior and providing appropriate support is essential.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for an elderly client who has been taking an antipsychotic medication for 1 week. The nurse notifies the physician when he observes that the client has muscle rigidity that resembles Parkinson's disease. Which agent would the nurse expect the physician to prescribe?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anticholinergic. Antipsychotic medications can cause extrapyramidal symptoms like muscle rigidity resembling Parkinson's disease. Anticholinergics are used to manage these symptoms by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, which helps alleviate muscle rigidity. Anxiolytics (B), benzodiazepines (C), and beta-blockers (D) are not typically used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms associated with antipsychotic medications. Anxiolytics are for anxiety, benzodiazepines are for sedation or anxiety, and beta-blockers are for conditions like hypertension or heart-related issues.
Question 4 of 5
Taylor, a psychiatric registered nurse, orients Regina, a patient with anorexia nervosa, to the room where she will be assigned during her stay. After getting Regina settled, the nurse informs Regina:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because as a psychiatric nurse, it is important to ensure the safety of the patient, especially those with anorexia nervosa who may have harmful items in their belongings. Going through the patient's belongings allows the nurse to assess and remove any potential risks. This action aligns with the duty of care and ensures the patient's well-being. Choice B is incorrect because using a scale can trigger anxiety and reinforce unhealthy behaviors related to weight monitoring in patients with anorexia nervosa. Choice C is incorrect as stating a specific number of meals may not be suitable for every individual and could create unnecessary pressure on the patient. Choice D is incorrect because the structure of care should be based on evidence-based practices and clinical guidelines, not solely on the patient’s desire to eat.
Question 5 of 5
A person who has been unable to leave home for more than a week because of severe anxiety says, "I know it does not make sense, but I just can't bring myself to leave my apartment alone." Which nursing intervention is appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, teaching the person to use positive self-talk techniques. This intervention is appropriate because it addresses the cognitive aspect of anxiety. By teaching the person to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations, they can gradually overcome their fear and build confidence in leaving the apartment. Online video calls (A) may provide temporary relief but do not address the root cause of the anxiety. Advising the person to use a companion (B) may enable avoidance of the problem rather than actively working on overcoming it. Asking the person to explain their fear (C) may not be helpful if they are already aware that it is irrational. Positive self-talk techniques empower the individual to change their mindset and behavior effectively.