ATI RN
Behavioral Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
When a new patient is hospitalized, a nurse takes the patient on a tour, explains rules of the unit, and discusses the daily schedule. The nurse is engaged in
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Milieu management provides a therapeutic environment in which the patient can feel comfortable and safe while engaging in activities that meet the patient's physical and mental health needs. Counseling refers to activities designed to promote problem solving and enhanced coping and includes interviewing, crisis intervention, stress management, and conflict resolution. Health teaching involves identifying health education needs and giving information about these needs. Psychobiological interventions involve medication administration and monitoring response to medications.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa. The patient states, 'I feel ashamed of my eating habits.' Which of the following is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is option B: "I understand that you feel ashamed, but we are here to help you." This response demonstrates empathy, validation of the patient's feelings, and offers support and assistance. In the context of caring for a patient with bulimia nervosa, it is crucial for the nurse to create a non-judgmental and supportive environment to establish trust and facilitate open communication. Option A is incorrect because it minimizes the patient's feelings of shame, which can be detrimental to the therapeutic relationship. Option C is incorrect as it dismisses the patient's emotional distress and focuses solely on a behavioral aspect. Option D is wrong as it uses a confrontational and punitive approach, which can increase the patient's feelings of guilt and resistance to treatment. In an educational context, it is vital for nurses to develop communication skills that are empathetic, supportive, and non-judgmental when caring for patients with eating disorders. By understanding the psychological aspects of these disorders and responding with compassion, nurses can positively impact the patient's recovery journey.
Question 3 of 5
During the first interview with a parent whose child died in a car accident, the nurse feels empathic and reaches out to take the patient's hand. Select the correct analysis of the nurse's behavior.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, option B is the correct analysis of the nurse's behavior. The nurse's gesture of reaching out to take the patient's hand without understanding the patient's cultural background or individual preferences regarding touch could be premature and potentially misinterpreted. This action could be perceived as intrusive or crossing personal boundaries, especially in a sensitive and emotional situation like the death of a child. In behavioral nursing, it is crucial to respect the patient's autonomy and preferences, including their physical boundaries and comfort levels with touch. Option A is incorrect because while the nurse's intention may be to show empathy and compassion, the impact of the gesture can vary based on individual perceptions. Option C highlights the potential negative perception of the gesture, which aligns with the correct analysis. Option D is overly generalized and not applicable to this specific situation. In an educational context, this question emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, communication skills, and respecting boundaries in nursing practice, especially in emotional and delicate situations. Nurses must always consider individual preferences and cultural norms when providing care to ensure patient-centered and respectful interactions.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who is experiencing delusions. The patient says, 'I am the president of the United States.' What is the most appropriate nursing response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate nursing response in this scenario is option B) "Tell me more about your role as president." This response is empathetic, non-confrontational, and demonstrates therapeutic communication techniques. By engaging the patient in discussing their delusion, the nurse shows respect for their feelings and experiences, which can help build rapport and trust. Option A) "That's not true. You are not the president." is confrontational and dismissive, which can escalate the patient's distress and hinder therapeutic communication. It does not acknowledge the patient's reality or emotions. Option C) "You need to focus on reality and stop believing the delusions." is directive and may cause the patient to feel judged or misunderstood. It does not address the underlying emotions or reasons behind the delusion. Option D) "You are not the president, but I understand that you are feeling very important." is partially acknowledging the patient's feelings but still corrects the delusion. However, it does not fully explore the patient's experience or engage in a therapeutic conversation. In behavioral nursing, it is crucial to approach patients with empathy, respect, and understanding. By using open-ended questions and active listening, nurses can help patients explore their thoughts and feelings, leading to more effective therapeutic interventions and outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. The patient states, 'I am so afraid of gaining weight. I can't eat.' What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is option B) "Let's talk about why you feel afraid to eat and how we can help." This response demonstrates therapeutic communication skills and empathy towards the patient's feelings. It acknowledges the patient's fear and opens the door for further exploration and support. Option A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's fear and oversimplifies the issue, potentially causing the patient to feel misunderstood or invalidated. Option C is not the best response as it comes across as directive and may increase the patient's resistance. Option D, while true, lacks the empathetic approach needed when addressing psychological issues like eating disorders. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to approach patients with eating disorders with sensitivity and understanding. By acknowledging the patient's feelings and offering support, nurses can build trust and create a safe space for patients to discuss their struggles and work towards recovery. Therapeutic communication is fundamental in nursing practice, especially when dealing with mental health issues like anorexia nervosa.