ATI RN
PICO Question Psychiatric Emergency Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
The RN is providing care for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder who has self-inflicted lacerations on the abdomen. Which approach should the RN use when changing this client's dressing?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Perform the dressing change in a non-judgmental manner. This approach is essential when caring for clients with borderline personality disorder to build trust and maintain a therapeutic relationship. Providing detailed explanations (choice A) may overwhelm the client. Asking why the client self-harmed (choice C) can be perceived as threatening and may trigger negative emotions. Requesting another staff member's assistance (choice D) may not address the need for a non-judgmental approach. The key is to prioritize empathy and respect the client's autonomy while addressing their physical needs.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing medications for a client with bipolar disorder and notices that the antipsychotic medication was discontinued several days ago. Which medication should also be discontinued?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Benztropine (Cogentin). Benztropine is commonly used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms caused by antipsychotic medications. If the antipsychotic is discontinued, there is no longer a need for benztropine. A, Lithium, is used to treat bipolar disorder itself and should not be discontinued without medical supervision. C, Alprazolam, is an anxiolytic and is not directly related to antipsychotic medications. D, Magnesium, is a laxative and is not typically associated with bipolar disorder or antipsychotic medications.
Question 3 of 5
An 18-year-old client is brought to the emergency department with a suspected overdose. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain from the family?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The drug that was ingested. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and antidote for the overdose. Knowing the specific substance helps the healthcare team assess the severity of the overdose and provide targeted care. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: - B: The time of ingestion is important but not as critical as knowing the specific drug for immediate intervention. - C: The client's medical history is relevant but not as urgent as identifying the ingested substance for immediate treatment. - D: The client's mental health history is important for long-term care but not as vital as identifying the drug for immediate life-saving measures.
Question 4 of 5
A 27-year-old female client is admitted to the psychiatric hospital with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, manic phase. She is demanding and active. Which intervention should the nurse include in this client's plan of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Provide a structured environment with little stimuli. In the manic phase of bipolar disorder, clients often exhibit increased energy, agitation, and impulsivity. A structured environment with minimal stimuli helps reduce overstimulation and provides a sense of predictability, promoting a sense of safety and stability. This intervention can help prevent escalation of manic symptoms and promote self-regulation. Summary: B: Encouraging group activities may overstimulate the client and exacerbate manic symptoms. C: Allowing the client to set her own schedule may lead to erratic behavior and lack of boundaries. D: Administering sedative medications should be a last resort and not the initial intervention for managing manic symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
Patient with alcoholic withdrawal symptoms who says she has snakes all over her body. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer PRN Lorazepam (Ativan). This is because the patient is experiencing hallucinations, a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that can help reduce anxiety and manage hallucinations effectively in this situation. Providing a quiet environment (B) may be helpful, but addressing the hallucinations is the priority. Offering fluids and snacks (C) and reassuring the client (D) do not directly address the underlying issue of hallucinations and may not provide adequate relief for the patient's distress.