ATI RN
Mental Health Assessment ATI Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse is initiating a group for adolescent girls diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Many of the clients in the group are irritable and resent having to attend. One of them comments, 'This is a stupid waste of time!' Which of the response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You sound irritated; tell me about what is bothering you." This response demonstrates empathy and understanding towards the client's feelings and encourages open communication. By acknowledging the client's emotions and inviting them to express their concerns, the nurse can address the underlying issues causing the negative attitude, helping to build trust and rapport within the group. Choice A is inappropriate as it dismisses the client's feelings and may further alienate them. Choice C is authoritarian and may lead to resistance or defiance. Choice D is confrontational and disrespectful, which can escalate the situation and hinder therapeutic progress.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is caring for a family with a 3-year-old child who has autism disorders. When developing the teaching plan for the parents, which of the following would the nurse most likely include?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: A structured physical environment is an important aspect. Children with autism disorders often benefit from a structured environment to help them feel safe and secure. This includes having clear routines, visual schedules, and designated spaces for different activities. Providing a structured environment can help reduce anxiety and improve the child's ability to focus and learn. Choice A is incorrect because autism and seizure disorders are not typically directly related. Choice B is incorrect as there is no correlation between autism and higher IQ. Choice C is incorrect as dyslexia is not a common comorbid condition with autism.
Question 3 of 9
What safety-related responsibility does the nurse have in any situation of suspected abuse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because reporting suspected abuse to the proper authorities is a legal and ethical requirement for healthcare professionals to protect vulnerable individuals. Reporting ensures that the appropriate agencies can investigate and intervene to safeguard the victim. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses solely on future prevention rather than immediate action. Choice B is incorrect as it may compromise the safety of the victim by alerting the abuser. Choice C is incorrect as counseling is not the primary responsibility when abuse is suspected, reporting is.
Question 4 of 9
A person speaking about a rival for a significant other's affection says in an emotional, syrupy voice, "What a lovely person. That's someone I simply adore." The individual is demonstrating
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: reaction formation. This defense mechanism involves expressing the opposite of what one truly feels to cope with unacceptable emotions. In this scenario, the person outwardly expresses admiration for the rival, masking their true feelings of jealousy or resentment. Repression (B) involves unconsciously blocking out unwanted thoughts or emotions, which is not demonstrated here. Projection (C) involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others, which is not evident in the scenario. Denial (D) is refusing to accept reality, which is also not applicable in this context. The emotional and overly positive expression in the scenario aligns with the concept of reaction formation.
Question 5 of 9
When a nurse assesses an older adult patient, answers seem vague or unrelated to the questions. The patient also leans forward and frowns, listening intently to the nurse. An appropriate question for the nurse to ask would be
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Are you having difficulty hearing when I speak?" This is the most appropriate question as the patient's leaning forward and frowning could indicate potential hearing difficulties. By asking this question, the nurse can address a possible communication barrier and provide necessary accommodations. Option B, "How can I make this assessment interview easier for you?" is more general and may not directly address the specific issue of hearing difficulty. Option C, "I notice you are frowning. Are you feeling annoyed with me?" assumes the patient's emotions without addressing the potential hearing issue. Option D, "You're having trouble focusing on what I'm saying. What is distracting you?" assumes a focus issue rather than considering hearing impairment.
Question 6 of 9
A young child is found wandering alone at a mall. A male store employee approaches and asks where her parents are. She responds, 'I don't know. Maybe you will take me home with you?' This sort of response in children may be due to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A lack of bonding as an infant. This response from the child suggests a lack of secure attachment to a caregiver, leading to a sense of insecurity and seeking attachment with anyone present. This behavior is commonly seen in children who have not formed a secure bond with their primary caregiver in early childhood. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a healthy confidence in the child, adequate parental bonding, and normal parenting would not typically lead to a child seeking attachment with a stranger in a situation like this.
Question 7 of 9
When communicating with a patient, which of the following would the nurse use to convey positive body language?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sitting at the patient's eye level. This choice promotes open communication and shows respect to the patient. It helps establish a connection and makes the patient feel valued. Sitting erect (A) shows attentiveness, but not necessarily positive body language. Crossing arms (B) can signal defensiveness or closed-off attitude. Keeping feet flat on the floor with legs crossed (D) may appear relaxed but can be perceived as too casual or disengaged in a healthcare setting.
Question 8 of 9
A group of nursing students is reviewing risk and protective factors associated for mental disorders in the older adult population. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which of the following as a protective factor?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Education. Education is a protective factor for mental disorders in older adults because higher levels of education are associated with better cognitive functioning and a lower risk of developing mental health issues. Education also provides individuals with better problem-solving skills and access to resources that can help them cope with stressors. A: Poverty is incorrect because it is a risk factor for mental disorders due to increased stress, lack of access to resources, and limited opportunities for mental health care. C: Loss is incorrect as it can be a risk factor for mental disorders in older adults, such as grief and depression following the loss of a loved one. D: Chronic illness is incorrect as it can also be a risk factor for mental disorders due to the physical and emotional burden it places on individuals.
Question 9 of 9
A nurse is interviewing a client who has a co-occurring diagnosis. The client is trying to explain why it is so easy to start drinking again even though hospitalization and prescribed medications can eventually control his mental problems. Which statement by the client would the nurse interpret as reflecting the client's beliefs?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is B because it reflects the client's belief that drinking provides an escape from negative emotions and a sense of euphoria that medication cannot offer. This statement indicates the client's preference for the emotional effects of alcohol over the functional benefits of medication. Summary of other choices: A: Focuses on the financial aspect and convenience of alcohol, not the emotional aspect. C: Highlights issues with side effects and forgetfulness, not the emotional appeal of alcohol. D: Mentions avoiding responsibility as a reason for not taking medication, rather than seeking emotional relief from alcohol.