ATI RN
Multiple Choice Questions on Psychiatric Emergencies Questions
Question 1 of 5
Patient taking Carbamazepine. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct action of obtaining a fingerstick glucose for a patient taking Carbamazepine is to monitor for hypoglycemia, a common side effect of the medication. This is crucial as Carbamazepine can lower blood sugar levels. Monitoring liver function tests (B) is not directly related to Carbamazepine use. Checking serum sodium levels (C) is not a priority unless the patient shows symptoms of hyponatremia. Assessing for signs of infection (D) is important but not specifically related to Carbamazepine use. Overall, obtaining a fingerstick glucose is the most appropriate action to monitor for potential side effects of Carbamazepine.
Question 2 of 5
While sitting in the dayroom of the mental health unit, a male adolescent avoids eye contact, looks at the floor, and talks softly when interacting verbally with the RN. The two trade places, and the RN demonstrates the client's behaviors. What is the main goal of this therapeutic technique?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Allow the client to identify the way he interacts. By demonstrating the client's behaviors, the RN is providing a mirror for the client to see how he interacts with others. This technique helps the client gain insight into his own behaviors and communication style. It can facilitate self-awareness and promote reflection on the impact of his actions on others. Options A, B, and D do not focus on the client's self-awareness and identification of his behaviors, making them incorrect choices. Option A focuses on initiating conversation, option B on dialogue about ineffectiveness, and option D on discussing feelings, but they do not directly address the goal of allowing the client to identify his interactions.
Question 3 of 5
A patient diagnosed with depressive disorder begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. The nurse should provide information to the patient and family about
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: SSRIs can initially increase suicidal thoughts in some patients due to changes in neurotransmitter levels. Step 2: Monitoring for increased suicidal thoughts is crucial to prevent harm. Step 3: Reporting increased suicidal thoughts allows for timely intervention and adjustment of treatment. Step 4: Choices A, B, and D are irrelevant to SSRI therapy for depressive disorder.
Question 4 of 5
Major depressive disorder resulted after a patient's employment was terminated. The patient now says to the nurse, 'I'm not worth the time you spend with me. I am the most useless person in the world.' Which nursing diagnosis applies?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct nursing diagnosis is C: Situational low self-esteem. This is because the patient's negative self-perception and feelings of worthlessness are directly related to the situational trigger of losing their job. This diagnosis captures the temporary nature of the self-esteem issue. A: Powerlessness does not fully capture the patient's self-esteem issues. B: Defensive coping is not the most appropriate diagnosis as the patient is not exhibiting defensive behaviors. D: Disturbed personal identity is not the best fit as the patient's issue is more focused on self-worth rather than identity confusion or alteration.
Question 5 of 5
A patient was diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During which month would this patient's symptoms be most acute?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A (January). Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, typically in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Symptoms are most acute during the darkest and coldest months, such as January. April (B), June (C), and September (D) are less likely to be the peak months for SAD symptoms as they correspond to spring, summer, and early fall when there is more daylight and warmer temperatures, which typically alleviate symptoms of SAD.