HESI RN
Quizlet HESI Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
The occupational health nurse is working with a female employee who was just notified that her child was involved in a MVA and taken to the hospital. The employee states, "I can't believe this. What should I do?" Which response is best for the nurse to provide in this crisis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a crisis situation where the female employee's child is involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) and taken to the hospital, the most appropriate response for the nurse is to provide immediate practical assistance. Calling for transportation to the hospital ensures that the employee can quickly reach her child in need of urgent medical attention. The other options (A, B, and C) do not address the immediate need for assistance and may not provide the necessary support required in such a critical situation.
Question 2 of 5
A male client with schizophrenia is demonstrating echolalia, which is becoming annoying to other clients on the unit. What intervention is best for the RN to implement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate intervention for the RN to implement is option C: Avoid recognizing the behavior. Echolalia is a common symptom of schizophrenia where the individual involuntarily repeats words or phrases spoken by others. By avoiding recognition of this behavior, the RN can help prevent reinforcing it, as giving attention to the behavior may inadvertently reinforce its continuation. Option A, isolating the client, is not the best choice as it may lead to increased feelings of alienation and exacerbate the client's symptoms. Administering a sedative (option B) should not be the first-line intervention for echolalia, as it does not address the underlying cause of the behavior. Escorting the client to his room (option D) may not be necessary if the behavior is not posing a threat to himself or others. Educationally, it is important for nursing students to understand the principles of managing behaviors associated with mental health disorders. By choosing the correct intervention of avoiding recognition of echolalia, students learn the importance of non-reinforcement of maladaptive behaviors and promoting a therapeutic environment for clients with schizophrenia. This approach aligns with person-centered care and supports the client's dignity and autonomy in the treatment process.
Question 3 of 5
A mental health worker is caring for a client with escalating aggressive behavior. Which action by the mental health worker warrants immediate intervention by the RN?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, option A, attempting to physically restrain the patient, warrants immediate intervention by the RN. This is because physical restraint should only be used as a last resort and under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider due to the risk of harm to both the patient and the staff. Restraints can escalate the situation further and compromise the therapeutic relationship. Option B, remaining at a distance of 4 feet, is not ideal as maintaining a safe distance is important in managing aggression, but immediate intervention is needed in this escalating situation. Option C, telling the client to go to the quiet area, is not the most appropriate action in a situation of escalating aggressive behavior as it may not effectively de-escalate the situation and could potentially exacerbate the aggression. Option D, using a loud voice to talk to the client, may also escalate the situation further as it can be perceived as confrontational and may further agitate the client. In the context of mental health nursing, it is crucial to prioritize de-escalation techniques, communication skills, and non-physical interventions to manage aggressive behaviors effectively and ensure the safety and well-being of both the client and the healthcare team.
Question 4 of 5
A female client on a psychiatric unit is sweating profusely while vigorously doing push-ups and then running the length of the corridor several times before crashing into furniture in the sitting room. Picking herself up, she begins to verbally attack other clients. What intervention is most appropriate for the RN to use to manage the client's behavior?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Assisting the client to a safe area is the most appropriate intervention in this scenario. This action helps prevent injury to the client and others while allowing for de-escalation in a controlled environment. While establishing clear and firm limits (Choice B) may be necessary in some situations, the immediate priority here is safety. Offering medication (Choice C) should not be the first response unless the situation escalates further and poses a risk to the client or others. Speaking with the client in a calm, non-threatening manner (Choice D) may not be effective when the client is in an agitated state and engaging in risky behavior.
Question 5 of 5
A client with major depressive disorder is prescribed lithium carbonate. Which finding should the RN report to the healthcare provider?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Elevated BUN levels may indicate renal impairment, which is crucial to report for clients on lithium due to its potential kidney effects. Option A, a serum lithium level of 0.8 mEq/L, is within the therapeutic range for lithium and does not require immediate reporting. Option C, a serum sodium level of 138 mEq/L, is within the normal range and not directly related to lithium therapy. Option D, urine output of 800 mL in 24 hours, may indicate a need for further assessment but is not the most critical finding to report compared to potential renal impairment indicated by an elevated BUN level.