HESI LPN
Mental Health HESI Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer phenelzine sulfate (Nardil) to a client on the psychiatric unit. Which complaint related to administration of this drug should the nurse expect this client to make?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) "My mouth feels like cotton." This complaint is characteristic of a common side effect of phenelzine sulfate (Nardil) called dry mouth. Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that can cause anticholinergic effects, including dry mouth. This side effect occurs due to the drug's impact on the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to reduced saliva production. Option B) "That medication gives me indigestion" is incorrect because indigestion is not a common complaint associated with phenelzine use. Instead, gastrointestinal side effects like constipation or diarrhea may occur. Option C) "This pill gives me diarrhea" is also incorrect. While gastrointestinal disturbances are possible with phenelzine, diarrhea is not a common complaint. Constipation is a more frequent side effect. Option D) "My urine looks pink" is unrelated to phenelzine sulfate administration and is not a known side effect of this medication. Educationally, understanding common side effects of psychiatric medications like phenelzine is crucial for mental health nurses to anticipate, monitor, and manage potential adverse reactions in patients. This knowledge helps ensure safe medication administration and client well-being.
Question 2 of 5
A male employee who is assessed weekly in the employee clinic for blood pressure because of a history of hypertension tells the nurse that he is so upset with one of his co-workers that he would like to shoot him. What action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct action for the nurse to take first is to determine if the client has a weapon available for use (Option A). This is crucial because the immediate safety of the co-worker and others is a priority. By assessing if the client has access to a weapon, the nurse can gauge the level of risk and take appropriate action to ensure a safe environment. Option B, informing the health care provider of the threat, may be necessary but is not the immediate action to ensure safety. Option C, notifying security, is important but should come after assessing the immediate threat posed by the client. Option D, having the employee escorted to a mental health facility, is premature without first assessing the presence of a weapon and the level of risk. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing safety in mental health nursing practice. Nurses must be prepared to assess and manage potentially dangerous situations to protect the well-being of all individuals involved. Critical thinking and quick decision-making skills are essential in such scenarios to prevent harm and promote a safe environment.
Question 3 of 5
What is the most important goal of care for a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) who has been taking the benzodiazepine alprazolam (Xanax) long-term? The client will:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The most important goal of care for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) taking alprazolam long-term is to ensure they understand the importance of not abruptly stopping the medication. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential complications. Choice A is not the most critical goal as the focus should be on the safe continuation of the medication. Choice C is important but not as crucial as preventing abrupt discontinuation. Choice D is beneficial for overall treatment but not the most important goal in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A female client on the psychiatric unit tells the nurse that she feels like ending her life because she can no longer deal with her depression. What is the nurse's priority intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to stay with the client and ensure her safety. Ensuring the client's safety is the top priority when a client expresses suicidal ideation. Staying with the client can help prevent self-harm while further assessment and interventions are arranged. Choice B is incorrect because simply informing the client that she is safe in the hospital does not address the immediate need for safety. Choice C is incorrect as while documentation is important, it is not the priority when a client's safety is at risk. Choice D is also incorrect as encouraging the client to join a group therapy session is not appropriate when the client is in crisis and expressing suicidal thoughts.
Question 5 of 5
When planning care for a client with anorexia nervosa, which goal should be prioritized?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because achieving normal electrolyte balance is critical in clients with anorexia nervosa. Electrolyte imbalances can lead to serious, life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias and organ failure. While establishing normal eating patterns (choice A) and verbalizing feelings about food and weight (choice B) are important aspects of treatment, addressing electrolyte balance takes precedence due to the immediate risks associated with imbalances. Additionally, setting a weight gain goal of 2 pounds per week (choice C) may not be appropriate initially as rapid refeeding can also lead to electrolyte imbalances and other complications.