ATI RN
Proctored ATI Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse reviews a client's record in preparation for client care. This action is one of the tasks that occur in a phase of the nurse-client relationship. What is the purpose of this phase?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the phase of the nurse-client relationship involving reviewing the client's record is the orientation phase. In this phase, the nurse gathers information about the client's diagnosis, health history, and current care needs to understand the client's situation. This phase focuses on setting goals, exploring attitudes, and establishing a plan of care based on the client's needs. It is essential for the nurse to understand the client's diagnosis to provide effective care. Choice A (Getting to know each other and establishing trust) is typically associated with the initial phase of the relationship, not specifically related to reviewing records. Choice B (Implementing nursing interventions to achieve outcomes) is part of the working phase, where interventions are carried out. Choice C (Achievement of independence and maintenance of health without nursing care) is more aligned with the termination phase, where the client achieves independence.
Question 2 of 5
A group of nursing students are reviewing information related to drug therapy for mood disorders. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which agent as the gold standard for treating bipolar disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lithium. Lithium is considered the gold standard for treating bipolar disorder due to its proven efficacy in reducing manic episodes and preventing relapse. It has been used for decades and has a well-established track record. Additionally, lithium has a unique mechanism of action in stabilizing mood by modulating neurotransmitters. Carbamazepine, valproate, and lamotrigine are also used in treating bipolar disorder, but they are not considered the gold standard like lithium. Carbamazepine and valproate are typically used as alternative options or in combination with other medications, while lamotrigine is often used for bipolar depression rather than mania.
Question 3 of 5
The impulse control spectrum can begin in childhood and continue on into adulthood, often morphing into criminal behaviors. Working with patients diagnosed with these disorders, the best examples of expressed emotion by the nursing staff are:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Low to prevent emotional reactions. When working with patients with impulse control disorders, it is crucial for nursing staff to maintain low expressed emotion levels to prevent triggering emotional reactions in the patients. High emotional expression can exacerbate the patients' symptoms and lead to escalated behaviors. Matching the patient's emotions (B) can also be risky as it may inadvertently validate or reinforce maladaptive behaviors. Being flat (C) without any emotional output can be perceived as cold and uncaring, hindering the therapeutic relationship. High expression (D) may overwhelm the patient and hinder therapeutic progress. Therefore, maintaining low emotional reactions is the most effective approach to support patients with impulse control disorders.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client brought to the hospital psychiatric emergency services by a law enforcement officer. The client has disorganized, incoherent speech with loose associations and religious content. You should recognize the signs and symptoms as being consistent with which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Schizophrenia. The client's symptoms of disorganized, incoherent speech with loose associations and religious content are classic features of schizophrenia, specifically the positive symptoms. Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by disturbances in thinking, emotions, and behavior. It typically presents in late adolescence or early adulthood. On the other hand, the other choices are incorrect because Alzheimer's disease primarily affects memory and cognitive function, substance intoxication would manifest with different symptoms depending on the substance, and depression typically presents with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities.
Question 5 of 5
Walking down the aisle of a local grocery store, a nurse encounters a client the nurse has recently cared for on an inpatient psychiatric setting. Which is the appropriate reaction by the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because making eye contact and responding if the client engages maintains professionalism and acknowledges the client's presence without compromising confidentiality. It shows respect and empathy, which are important in nursing practice. A: Inquiring about the client's well-being can breach confidentiality and may not be appropriate in a public setting. B: Ignoring the client can be seen as rude and may harm the therapeutic relationship. C: Talking to the client without using names may still breach confidentiality and does not fully acknowledge the client's presence.