ATI RN
Mental Health Practice A ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is having a therapeutic conversation with a client in a locked inpatient psychiatric unit. The client states,"Please don't tell anyone about my sexual abuse." Which is the appropriate nursing response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because in an inpatient psychiatric unit, patient safety and treatment planning are the top priorities. By informing the healthcare team about the client's history of sexual abuse, they can provide appropriate care and interventions. Confidentiality cannot always be guaranteed in a psychiatric setting due to the duty to protect the client and others. Choice A is incorrect as it guarantees confidentiality, which may not be feasible in this situation. Choice C is incorrect as it challenges the client's decision and may breach trust. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses solely on the client's feelings without addressing the need for treatment planning by the healthcare team.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assisting a client with borderline personality disorder in how to manage transient psychotic episodes that involve auditory hallucinations. The teaching is planned for times when the client is free of these symptoms. Which of the following would the nurse instruct the client to do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Identify early internal cues of distress. This is the first step because recognizing early signs of distress can help the client intervene before the psychotic episode escalates. By identifying these cues, the client can implement coping strategies and prevent the hallucinations from worsening. Explanation for incorrect choices: A: Using skills to tolerate painful feelings is important, but identifying early cues is crucial for early intervention. B: Deep abdominal breathing can help with relaxation, but it may not address the underlying distress leading to the hallucinations. D: Referring to cards listing symptoms is less effective as it focuses on recognizing symptoms rather than proactively managing distress cues.
Question 3 of 5
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 4 of 5
Larry, a middle-aged male in a treatment facility, is loudly displaying anger in the day room with a visiting family member. It is obvious to the nurse this pattern has played out before. Violence is often escalated when family members or authority figures:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Engage in a power struggle. Engaging in a power struggle can escalate the situation by challenging the individual's sense of control and leading to increased anger and aggression. This behavior can further provoke the individual and worsen the situation. A: Using a soft tone of voice may not address the underlying issues causing the anger and can be perceived as patronizing. B: Moving away in fear can demonstrate avoidance behavior and may not effectively address the situation. C: Using simple words to communicate may not address the power dynamic at play and may not de-escalate the situation effectively. In summary, engaging in a power struggle can exacerbate the situation, while the other choices may not effectively address the root cause of the anger and aggression displayed by Larry.
Question 5 of 5
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.