ATI RN
Psychotropic Medication Questions
Question 1 of 5
The PHMNP recognizes which of the following medication as an atypical antipsychotic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: Aripiprazole is recognized as an atypical antipsychotic by the PHMNP due to its unique mechanism of action as a partial dopamine D2 receptor agonist. This provides both dopamine modulation and stabilization, making it effective for treating a range of psychiatric disorders. In contrast, chlorpromazine (A) is a typical antipsychotic, haloperidol (C) is a first-generation antipsychotic, and mesoridazine (D) is a withdrawn antipsychotic due to safety concerns. Therefore, aripiprazole (B) stands out as the correct choice for being an atypical antipsychotic with a distinct mechanism of action.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient who reports feelings of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating. The nurse recognizes that these symptoms are commonly associated with:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (Major depressive disorder). Symptoms of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating are hallmark features of major depressive disorder. Worthlessness is a common symptom of low self-esteem and negative self-perception associated with depression. Difficulty concentrating is a cognitive symptom often seen in depression due to impaired focus and attention. Schizophrenia (A) is characterized by hallucinations and delusions. Bipolar disorder (C) involves mood swings between mania and depression. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Therefore, the symptoms described align most closely with major depressive disorder.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient who has a history of substance abuse. Which goal would be most appropriate for the nurse to focus on during the initial phase of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential in the initial phase of care for a patient with a history of substance abuse. This goal focuses on providing the patient with alternative ways to manage stress and triggers, which can help prevent relapse. It also empowers the patient to address underlying issues contributing to substance abuse. Choice B is incorrect because focusing solely on understanding long-term effects may not address the immediate needs of the patient. Choice C is incorrect as complete abstinence is a long-term goal and may not be realistic in the initial phase. Choice D is incorrect as promoting self-care is important but may not address the specific needs related to substance abuse.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient with depression. Which of the following statements would indicate that the patient is experiencing suicidal ideation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the statement indicates the patient is having thoughts about how others would be better off without them, which is a significant red flag for suicidal ideation. This statement reflects feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. Incorrect choices: A: This statement reflects a sense of loss of identity but does not directly indicate suicidal ideation. B: This statement reflects anhedonia, or the inability to experience pleasure, which is a symptom of depression but not necessarily indicative of suicidal thoughts. D: Excessive crying can be a symptom of depression but does not specifically point towards suicidal ideation.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient who has experienced a traumatic event. The patient exhibits symptoms of avoidance, hyperarousal, and intrusive thoughts. The nurse recognizes that the patient may be experiencing:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The patient is displaying symptoms consistent with PTSD, including avoidance (avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the trauma), hyperarousal (being easily startled or on edge), and intrusive thoughts (recurring, distressing memories of the trauma). Major depressive disorder (A) involves persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest, not specific to a traumatic event. Generalized anxiety disorder (C) involves excessive worry and anxiety about various events, not necessarily tied to a specific traumatic event. Bipolar disorder (D) involves mood swings between mania and depression, not specific to symptoms seen in PTSD.