ATI RN
Mental Health Assessment ATI Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 5
What safety-related responsibility does the nurse have in any situation of suspected abuse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because reporting suspected abuse to the proper authorities is a legal and ethical requirement for healthcare professionals to protect vulnerable individuals. Reporting ensures that the appropriate agencies can investigate and intervene to safeguard the victim. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses solely on future prevention rather than immediate action. Choice B is incorrect as it may compromise the safety of the victim by alerting the abuser. Choice C is incorrect as counseling is not the primary responsibility when abuse is suspected, reporting is.
Question 2 of 5
A young child is found wandering alone at a mall. A male store employee approaches and asks where her parents are. She responds, 'I don't know. Maybe you will take me home with you?' This sort of response in children may be due to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A lack of bonding as an infant. This response from the child suggests a lack of secure attachment to a caregiver, leading to a sense of insecurity and seeking attachment with anyone present. This behavior is commonly seen in children who have not formed a secure bond with their primary caregiver in early childhood. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because a healthy confidence in the child, adequate parental bonding, and normal parenting would not typically lead to a child seeking attachment with a stranger in a situation like this.
Question 3 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: Research shows that this condition more likely has a biological basis. Schizophrenia is a complex disorder with strong evidence pointing to a biological origin, such as genetics and brain structure abnormalities. By emphasizing the biological basis, the nurse can help the spouse understand that it is not solely related to childhood events. Incorrect Choices: A: Psychological stress is the basis of most mental disorders - This statement is too general and not specific to schizophrenia. B: This illness results from developmental factors rather than stress - While developmental factors may play a role, research indicates a strong biological component in schizophrenia. D: It must be frustrating for you that your spouse is sick so much of the time - This response does not address the cause of schizophrenia and focuses on the spouse's feelings instead.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is leading a group in which members are encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. The group session is just starting when a patient stomps into the room, slams his notebook down on a table, and sits down. His affect is one of anger and hostility. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct response is D: Encourage the patient to discuss his anger with the group. This option promotes open communication, which can help the patient express and process his emotions in a supportive environment. By addressing the anger directly, the nurse can facilitate the patient's emotional expression and potentially uncover underlying issues contributing to his hostility. It also allows the group members to practice empathy and understanding towards the patient's emotions, fostering a sense of community and trust. Option A: Keeping the focus off the patient may lead to avoidance of the issue and hinder potential therapeutic progress. Option B: Suggesting private counseling may be beneficial but does not address the immediate situation or utilize the group dynamic for support. Option C: Asking the patient to leave the group may escalate the situation and could isolate the patient further, potentially exacerbating his anger.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is performing an assessment of a patient with suicidal ideation. Which question would the nurse most likely ask to determine the degree of planning?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Asking "Could you stop yourself from killing yourself?" helps assess the degree of planning as it gauges the patient's ability and intention to prevent the act. Choice A focuses on intent, not planning. Choice B relates to past attempts, not current planning. Choice D addresses distress level, not planning. Thus, C is the best choice for evaluating the patient's current planning regarding suicide.