ATI RN
Mental Health Practice A ATI Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse is assessing a 35-year-old woman who is seeking assistance at a local community counseling center. Which of the following statements made by the woman would indicate that she is experiencing a crisis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the statement indicates a sudden inability to function normally, which is a key characteristic of a crisis. When a person mentions that they can't seem to function like they usually do, it suggests a significant disruption in their usual coping mechanisms and daily functioning. This can be a sign of a crisis situation where the individual is overwhelmed and struggling to manage their emotions and behavior effectively. Choices A, B, and D do not specifically indicate a crisis as they primarily focus on emotional distress and sadness related to specific events or relationships. While these situations may also be challenging for the individual, they do not necessarily imply a crisis involving a sudden disruption in functioning.
Question 2 of 9
On an inpatient psychiatric unit, the nurse explores feelings about potentially working with a woman whose husband has abused her and her children physically and verbally. This interaction would occur in which phase of the nurse-client relationship?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pre-interaction phase. In this phase, the nurse is preparing to meet the client, gathering information, and examining personal feelings and biases. By exploring feelings about working with an abused woman, the nurse is engaging in self-reflection and preparing to approach the interaction with awareness and sensitivity. The other choices are incorrect because in the orientation phase the nurse establishes rapport, in the working phase interventions are implemented, and in the termination phase the nurse evaluates outcomes and prepares for closure, none of which align with exploring personal feelings before meeting the client.
Question 3 of 9
A patient receiving an antipsychotic agent develops acute extrapyramidal symptoms. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is C: "These are the results of the drug that can be treated; your illness is not getting worse." This response acknowledges the side effects of the antipsychotic medication (extrapyramidal symptoms) while reassuring the patient that these symptoms can be managed without indicating a worsening of their condition. It demonstrates empathy, provides accurate information, and offers hope for improvement. Explanation of other choices: A: This response is dismissive and invalidates the patient's experience, which can be harmful to the therapeutic relationship. B: Allergy is not the cause of extrapyramidal symptoms, so changing medication based on this assumption is incorrect and may lead to unnecessary changes. D: Blaming sunlight for the symptoms is inaccurate and does not address the underlying issue of medication side effects, potentially causing confusion for the patient.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse is preparing to interview a client who has a delusional disorder. Which of the following would the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Normal behavior. In delusional disorder, individuals typically exhibit normal behavior aside from their fixed false beliefs (delusions). Delusions are the key characteristic of this disorder, while cognitive impairment (A) is not a defining feature. Labile affect (C) refers to unstable emotions, which are not typically seen in delusional disorder. Evidence of motor symptoms (D) is more indicative of neurological conditions rather than delusional disorder. Hence, the nurse can expect the client to display normal behavior during the interview.
Question 5 of 9
The nurse is assessing a 35-year-old woman who is seeking assistance at a local community counseling center. Which of the following statements made by the woman would indicate that she is experiencing a crisis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the statement indicates a sudden inability to function normally, which is a key characteristic of a crisis. When a person mentions that they can't seem to function like they usually do, it suggests a significant disruption in their usual coping mechanisms and daily functioning. This can be a sign of a crisis situation where the individual is overwhelmed and struggling to manage their emotions and behavior effectively. Choices A, B, and D do not specifically indicate a crisis as they primarily focus on emotional distress and sadness related to specific events or relationships. While these situations may also be challenging for the individual, they do not necessarily imply a crisis involving a sudden disruption in functioning.
Question 6 of 9
A community psychiatric nurse is reviewing data to find gaps in the local health-care system. What type of service yields the best outcomes for the acutely ill client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: wraparound services. This type of service provides comprehensive and individualized care that addresses the multiple needs of acutely ill clients, leading to better outcomes. It includes coordination of various services such as medical, psychological, social, and community support. This approach ensures holistic care and continuity of services, promoting recovery and reducing relapses. Summary: B: Community health services may offer some support but lack the personalized and comprehensive approach of wraparound services. C: Facility mental health services focus on treatment within a specific setting and may not address the broader needs of the client. D: Individual therapy services, while beneficial, may not be sufficient for acutely ill clients who require a more holistic and coordinated approach.
Question 7 of 9
Child protective services have removed 10-year-old Christopher from his parents' home due to neglect. Christopher reveals to the nurse that he considers the woman next door his 'nice' mom, that he loves school, and gets above average grades. The strongest explanation of this response is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Resilience. Christopher's ability to form positive relationships, excel in school, and maintain high academic performance despite experiencing neglect indicates resilience. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt positively in the face of adversity. His behavior shows that he is able to overcome his challenging circumstances and thrive. Temperament (A) refers to inherent traits that influence behavior, genetic factors (B) may play a role but do not fully explain his response, and the paradoxical effects of neglect (D) are not the strongest explanation in this context.
Question 8 of 9
What is a common barrier to recovery from mental illness?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: stigma and discrimination. Stigma and discrimination create significant barriers to recovery from mental illness by affecting self-esteem, access to treatment, and social support. Stigma can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, hindering individuals from seeking help or adhering to treatment. Discrimination can limit opportunities for employment, education, and social integration, further impacting mental health outcomes. Increased social interaction (A) can be beneficial for recovery. Availability of multiple treatment options (C) can support recovery. High levels of self-esteem (D) are important but not the most common barrier.
Question 9 of 9
A student nurse has been asked by the mental health nursing instructor to plan educational interventions for a forensic client with whom the student has been working. Which of the following would be most important for the student nurse to include in the plan?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Description of information about pertinent legal and court proceedings that are pending. Rationale: Understanding legal and court proceedings is crucial for a forensic client as it directly impacts their current situation and future outcomes. Providing this information can empower the client to make informed decisions and actively participate in their legal process, promoting autonomy and self-advocacy. Summary: A: While genetic and neurologic factors can contribute to criminal behavior, focusing solely on these aspects may not be the most immediate concern for the client's current needs. C: Nutrition and exercise are important for overall well-being but may not be the top priority when dealing with legal matters. D: Connecting the client's family to community providers is beneficial, but understanding legal proceedings is more urgent for the client's immediate needs.