ATI RN
Practice Nclex Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
Reviewing prescription medications in the discharge instructions for a patient with a diagnosis of major depression, the nurse would caution the patient about which over-the-counter supplement(s)? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: St. John's wort. St. John's wort can interact with antidepressant medications, leading to serotonin syndrome or decreasing the effectiveness of the antidepressants. It is important for the nurse to caution the patient about potential interactions. Fish oil (A), SAMe (B), and melatonin (D) do not have significant interactions with antidepressant medications, making them safe options for patients with major depression.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is getting ready to transfer a client diagnosed with schizophrenia to a partial hospital program. What is the next best step before that client is discharged?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because contacting the partial program and reviewing the client's history with the staff ensures a smooth transition and continuity of care. This step allows the receiving facility to be prepared to meet the client's needs effectively. Option A and B do not involve coordination with the receiving program, risking discontinuity of care. Option D includes providing records to the program but lacks the crucial step of reviewing the client's history with the staff beforehand, which could lead to potential misunderstandings or gaps in care.
Question 3 of 5
Which can be described as an example of an oversimplified or undifferentiated belief?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it represents an oversimplified and undifferentiated belief by generalizing all alcoholics as "skid-row bums." This statement fails to acknowledge the diversity and complexity of individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder. It overlooks the fact that alcoholism can affect people from all walks of life, regardless of their socioeconomic status. In contrast, choices A, B, and C provide more nuanced and accurate perspectives on alcohol use disorder, emphasizing factors such as disease model, treatment methods, and spiritual beliefs that can aid in recovery.
Question 4 of 5
A staff nurse completes orientation to a psychiatric unit. This nurse may expect an advanced practice nurse to perform which additional intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because prescribing psychotropic medication is within the scope of practice of an advanced practice nurse (APN), such as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. APNs have advanced education and training that allows them to diagnose and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. A: Conducting mental health assessments is a common role for staff nurses and does not require advanced practice training. C: Establishing therapeutic relationships is a fundamental nursing skill that staff nurses and APNs both perform. D: Individualizing nursing care plans is also a standard nursing practice that does not necessarily require advanced practice skills.
Question 5 of 5
A community mental health nurse has worked for months to establish a relationship with a delusional, suspicious patient. The patient recently lost employment and could no longer afford prescribed medications. The patient says, "Only a traitor would make me go to the hospital." Select the nurse's best initial intervention.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates respect for the patient's autonomy and builds trust in the nurse-patient relationship. By contacting resources to provide medications without charge, the nurse addresses the patient's financial constraint while honoring their wishes to avoid the hospital. This intervention promotes continuity of care and supports the patient's well-being. Option B is incorrect because it does not address the patient's immediate need for medications and may not align with the patient's preferences. Option C is inappropriate as hospitalization should be a last resort and may not be necessary in this case. Option D is not the best initial intervention as it does not directly address the patient's concerns about being perceived as a traitor.