ATI RN
Nurse in Psychiatry Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
Planning safety interventions for a teenager with a history of self-injurious behavior is based on what research-based information?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because research indicates that suicides can occur accidentally as a result of self-injurious behaviors. This is known as an unintentional suicide, where the individual did not intend to die but died due to the severity of their self-injurious behavior. This information is crucial for planning safety interventions for the teenager, as it highlights the potential seriousness of self-injury. Choice A is incorrect because research shows that suicidal ideation is not uncommon among teenagers, so it cannot be assumed that they rarely entertain the idea of suicide. Choice B is also incorrect because while self-injury can be a risk factor for future suicidal attempts, it is not always the case. Choice C is relevant but not the most specific to the scenario presented in the question, as it focuses solely on suicidal ideations rather than the potential accidental outcomes of self-injury.
Question 2 of 5
A new nurse asks, “My elderly patient has Lewy body disease. What should I do about assessing for pain?” Select the best response from the nurse manager.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because Lewy body disease can affect a patient's ability to communicate pain, making specialized pain assessment tools crucial. Special scales designed for patients with dementia can help in accurately assessing pain levels. These tools consider non-verbal cues and behavioral changes that may indicate pain. Asking the patient's family (A) may not always provide an accurate assessment of pain perception. Using a visual analog scale (B) may be challenging for a patient with cognitive impairment. Focusing solely on mental status (D) may overlook important indicators of pain in patients with Lewy body disease.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse assesses four patients between the ages of 70 and 80. Which patient has the highest risk for alcohol abuse? The patient who:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient who started drinking daily after retirement as a coping mechanism for arthritis has the highest risk for alcohol abuse. This behavior indicates a potential dependence on alcohol to manage physical and emotional discomfort, leading to increased consumption and potential addiction. Choice A is not the correct answer because consuming 1 glass of wine nightly with dinner is generally considered moderate drinking and does not necessarily indicate alcohol abuse. Choice B is also not the correct answer as social drinking throughout adult life, even if justified as a reward, does not inherently suggest alcohol abuse without further evidence of problematic drinking patterns. Choice D is incorrect as the patient has a history of alcohol abuse but currently abstains and seeks support through AA, indicating active efforts to maintain sobriety and reduce the risk of alcohol abuse.
Question 4 of 5
An older adult patient was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 18. A nurse at the outpatient medication clinic interviews this patient. Which communication strategy will be most helpful?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Ask clear, simple questions using concrete language. This strategy is most helpful because older adults with schizophrenia may have cognitive impairments that affect their ability to process complex information. Clear and simple questions using concrete language can help the patient understand and respond effectively. Choice A (Ask questions that can be answered with yes or no) limits communication and may not provide enough information for the nurse to assess the patient's condition comprehensively. Choice B (Use silence often and let the patient take the lead) may not be effective as the patient may struggle to communicate effectively due to cognitive impairments. Choice C (Use open-ended, indirect questions) may lead to confusion or misinterpretation for a patient with cognitive challenges.
Question 5 of 5
Which physical disturbance is commonly assessed in patients experiencing acute grief?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tightness in the chest. This physical disturbance is commonly associated with acute grief due to the emotional pain experienced. It is a manifestation of the intense feelings of sadness and loss that accompany grief. Tightness in the chest can be a result of the stress response triggered by grief, leading to physical symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty breathing. Summary: B: Hypersomnia and C: Increased appetite are more commonly associated with conditions like depression, while D: Cardiovascular problems may be a long-term consequence of chronic stress but are not typically assessed as a primary physical disturbance in acute grief.