ATI RN
Free Mental Health ATI Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is leading a small group of hospitalized patients diagnosed with psychiatric disorders. One group member has asked for advice and often agrees with suggestions by other group members but then adds, 'Yes, but . . .' to every suggestion offered. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it encourages the group member to take ownership of their situation. By asking them what solution they think would work best, the nurse empowers the individual to think critically and problem-solve for themselves. This approach promotes self-reflection and self-efficacy, which are important in the therapeutic process. Choice A is incorrect as it suggests avoiding the issue rather than addressing it directly. Choice B, while acknowledging the behavior, does not prompt the individual to actively engage in finding a solution. Choice C focuses on analyzing the behavior rather than facilitating problem-solving. Overall, choice D is the best option as it encourages autonomy and empowers the individual to take charge of their own progress.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who has attempted suicide has an underlying diagnosis of depression. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate being ordered for the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are commonly prescribed for depression due to their effectiveness in improving mood and reducing suicidal ideation. They are considered first-line treatment for depression. Mood stabilizers (B) are typically used for bipolar disorder, not major depressive disorder. Tricyclic antidepressants (C) have more side effects and are not as commonly prescribed as SSRIs. Atypical antipsychotics (D) are often used as adjunctive therapy for depression with psychotic features, but SSRIs are the primary treatment choice for depression without psychotic symptoms.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is preparing to administer medications to a female client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing acute mania. Which of the following would be most appropriate for the nurse to do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allow the client to participate in the treatment decision. Involving the client in the treatment decision-making process empowers them and promotes autonomy, which is important in mental health care. It also helps build trust and rapport. Choice A is incorrect as it may lead to resistance and conflict. Choice C is inappropriate and a violation of the client's rights unless there is an imminent risk of harm. Choice D is not the most appropriate initial action, as involving the client directly in their care should be prioritized.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is planning to explain the purpose of the behavioral therapy technique of self-monitoring to a client with bulimia nervosa. The nurse would emphasize keeping a diary to record which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Environmental stimuli. Self-monitoring in behavioral therapy for bulimia nervosa involves tracking external triggers like locations, people, or activities that may lead to binge eating. This helps the client identify patterns and develop strategies to cope with or avoid these triggers. Choice A (Feelings of hunger) focuses on internal cues, which are not the primary target of self-monitoring in bulimia nervosa. Choice B (Efforts at distraction) is not typically recorded in a self-monitoring diary but may be addressed through other therapeutic techniques. Choice D (Rigid rules about eating) is more related to cognitive restructuring rather than self-monitoring of environmental stimuli.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is counseling a family whose 4-year-old child has mild mental retardation. The nurse is working with the family on realistic long-term goals. Which of the following would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Achieving independent functioning of the child as an adult. This is the most appropriate long-term goal as it focuses on empowering the child to lead a fulfilling and independent life despite their condition. It emphasizes working towards maximizing the child's potential and enhancing their quality of life. A: Locating suitable residential placement for the child is not the most appropriate long-term goal as it does not focus on the child's independence and potential growth. B: Finding a foster home for the child is not suitable as it does not address the child's long-term development and independence. D: Preventing the onset of psychiatric disorders in the child is important but may not be the most relevant long-term goal as it does not directly address the child's mental retardation or focus on their independent functioning as an adult.