ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
The spouse of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, 'I don't understand how events from childhood have anything to do with this disabling illness.' Which response by the nurse will best help the spouse understand the cause of this disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because schizophrenia is widely believed to have a biological basis, supported by research showing genetic and neurological factors. This response helps the spouse understand that the disorder is not solely caused by childhood events but rather by underlying biological mechanisms. The other choices are incorrect because A oversimplifies the cause of mental disorders, B does not address the biological aspect of schizophrenia, and D does not provide relevant information about the disorder's cause.
Question 2 of 5
The spouse of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, 'I don't understand how events from childhood have anything to do with this disabling illness.' Which response by the nurse will best help the spouse understand the cause of this disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because schizophrenia is widely believed to have a biological basis, supported by research showing genetic and neurological factors. This response helps the spouse understand that the disorder is not solely caused by childhood events but rather by underlying biological mechanisms. The other choices are incorrect because A oversimplifies the cause of mental disorders, B does not address the biological aspect of schizophrenia, and D does not provide relevant information about the disorder's cause.
Question 3 of 5
A forty-year-old client in the therapist's office coughs and makes awkward sounds when the therapist chooses to talk about his childhood sexual abuse. Where does this reflexive behavior stem from?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the id, according to Freudian psychology, is the part of the psyche that operates on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification without considering consequences. In this scenario, the client's coughing and awkward sounds stem from an unconscious defense mechanism triggered by the uncomfortable topic of childhood sexual abuse. This reflexive behavior is a way for the client's mind to protect itself from the distressing emotions associated with the discussion. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the underlying psychological mechanism driving the client's behavior and do not align with the principles of Freudian theory.
Question 4 of 5
A patient presents to the emergency department with mixed psychiatric symptoms. The admission nurse suspects the symptoms may be the result of a medical problem. Lab results show elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine. What is the nurse's next best action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient for a history of renal problems. Elevated BUN and creatinine levels indicate possible renal dysfunction, which can manifest as psychiatric symptoms. By assessing the patient for a history of renal problems, the nurse can gather important information to help determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. This step is crucial in identifying and addressing any potential medical issues contributing to the psychiatric presentation. Incorrect choices: A: Reporting the findings to the health care provider is important, but assessing the patient for a history of renal problems should be done first. C: Assessing the patient's family history for cardiac problems is not relevant to the elevated BUN and creatinine levels. D: Hospitalization on the psychiatric unit may not address the underlying medical issue causing the symptoms; assessing for renal problems is more appropriate.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is planning a presentation to a group of older adults on the topic of suicide in the population. One of the group participants asks who has the highest risk of suicide. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because research shows that older men over 75 years who are divorced or widowed have the highest risk of suicide among older adults. This group faces social isolation, loss of social support, and higher rates of depression, making them more vulnerable. Choice A is incorrect as the number of prescriptions doesn't directly correlate with suicide risk. Choice B is incorrect because although depression is a risk factor, it's not the highest risk factor in this context. Choice C is incorrect as gender plays a significant role in suicide risk among older adults.