ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 9
Mrs. Rodriguez, a sixty-year-old female, is struggling with an addiction to alcohol. What community services could support Mrs. Rodriguez?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, a community program for substance use, as it offers specialized support for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. These programs provide counseling, therapy, and resources tailored to address addiction issues. State hospitalization (A) is not appropriate for Mrs. Rodriguez unless she is in immediate danger. Family support groups (B) may not address Mrs. Rodriguez's specific needs. Narcotics Anonymous (D) is geared towards drug addiction, not alcohol addiction. In summary, choice C is the best option for Mrs. Rodriguez as it offers comprehensive support and resources specifically for alcohol addiction.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is caring for a client who was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. Based on the nurse's understanding of this disorder, the nurse develops a plan of care to address which issue as the top priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicide. Schizoaffective disorder is associated with an increased risk of suicide. Addressing suicide prevention is the top priority to ensure the client's safety. Suicide risk assessment and intervention are crucial in managing this disorder. Aggression (B), substance abuse (C), and eating disorder (D) may also be present but addressing suicide takes precedence due to the high risk associated with this disorder.
Question 3 of 9
A student nurse is studying for an exam on the recovery process. What is an example of a statement that demonstrates their understanding to their study group?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Recovery is a nonlinear process based on instilling hope." This answer demonstrates a deep understanding of the recovery process as it acknowledges that recovery is not a straightforward path and emphasizes the importance of instilling hope in individuals undergoing recovery. Recovery from mental illness or substance use is a complex and individualized journey that may involve setbacks and progress. Instilling hope is crucial in motivating individuals to continue working towards their recovery goals. Choice A is incorrect because it presents a pessimistic view that the majority of people do not recover, which is not aligned with the recovery-oriented approach. Choice B is incorrect as it implies that the healthcare team solely dictates the recovery process, disregarding the individual's autonomy and empowerment. Choice D is incorrect as it overlooks the collaborative nature of the recovery process and places the responsibility solely on the client.
Question 4 of 9
Which medication from the medication administration record should a nurse administer to provide immediate intervention for a psychotic patient whose aggressive behavior continues to escalate despite verbal intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Olanzapine. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication that acts quickly to help manage aggressive behavior in psychotic patients. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to reduce agitation and aggression. A: Lithium is used for mood stabilization in conditions like bipolar disorder, not for immediate intervention in escalating aggression. B: Trazodone is an antidepressant often used for sleep disturbances, not typically indicated for acute aggression. D: Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant used for seizure disorders, not typically used for immediate aggression control. In summary, Olanzapine is the most appropriate choice for immediate intervention in managing escalating aggressive behavior in a psychotic patient due to its rapid onset and effectiveness in reducing agitation and aggression.
Question 5 of 9
Which statement by the nurse expresses respect for the client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates respect for the client's confidentiality and privacy, which are essential in maintaining trust and therapeutic relationships. By assuring the client that discussions will remain within the healthcare team, the nurse upholds the client's autonomy and dignity. Option A lacks respect as it involves blaming and restricting the client. Option C shows empathy but implies judgment towards the client. Option D downplays the client's feelings and fails to acknowledge their individuality.
Question 6 of 9
A client with a mental disorder is being discharged from the inpatient unit. During the client's stay in the hospital, the client eventually was able to get an adequate night's sleep even though the client had experienced chronic insomnia over the years. The client's spouse asks the nurse what the family can do in the client's home environment to promote healthy sleep. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is C: "Remember to keep stimulating activities at a minimum before he goes to bed." This is the correct answer because engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime can disrupt sleep. It is essential to create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep patterns. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the importance of avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime or promoting a calming environment for sleep. Option A puts the responsibility solely on the client, missing the opportunity for the family to support healthy sleep habits. Option B suggests alcohol consumption before bed, which can negatively impact sleep quality. Option D recommends a spicy snack and tea before bed, which can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep. Ultimately, choice C is the best option as it focuses on creating a conducive environment for restful sleep.
Question 7 of 9
A hospitalized patient who has been taking an antipsychotic medication for 2 weeks begins pacing and walking throughout the unit. He tells the nurse that he 'cannot sit still.' The nurse documents this finding as which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Akathisia. Akathisia is a common extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by an inner restlessness and an inability to sit still. In this scenario, the patient's symptoms of pacing and walking throughout the unit, along with feeling like he 'cannot sit still,' align with the definition of akathisia. A: Akinesia refers to a lack of movement and is not consistent with the patient's hyperactivity. B: Dystonia presents with sustained muscle contractions, causing abnormal postures or repetitive movements. C: Pseudoparkinsonism manifests as symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors and rigidity, which are not present in the patient's case.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse says, "I am the only one who truly understands this patient. Other staff members are too critical." The nurse's statement indicates
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: boundary blurring. The nurse's statement suggests an inappropriate emotional involvement with the patient, crossing professional boundaries. This can lead to biased decision-making and hinder teamwork. Sexual harassment (B) and positive regard (C) are not applicable in this context. Advocacy (D) involves supporting and promoting the patient's best interests, which is not demonstrated in the nurse's statement.
Question 9 of 9
While interviewing a patient, a nurse asks, 'What do you do when you get angry?' Which patient response would indicate to the nurse that the patient engages in anger suppression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because withdrawing and pouting about the problem indicates a passive-aggressive behavior associated with anger suppression. This response suggests that the patient avoids direct confrontation and attempts to mask their anger by withdrawing and internalizing their emotions. A: "I've been known to fly off the handle when I'm angry." - This response indicates explosive anger expression, not suppression. C: "I usually approach the person directly to talk about it." - This response suggests open communication, not suppression. D: "I try to discuss how I'm feeling about it with a close friend." - This response implies seeking support and emotional expression, not suppression.