ATI RN
Mental Health Assessment ATI Capstone Questions
Question 1 of 5
When a nurse assesses an older adult patient, answers seem vague or unrelated to the questions. The patient also leans forward and frowns, listening intently to the nurse. An appropriate question for the nurse to ask would be
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Are you having difficulty hearing when I speak?" This is the most appropriate question as the patient's leaning forward and frowning could indicate potential hearing difficulties. By asking this question, the nurse can address a possible communication barrier and provide necessary accommodations. Option B, "How can I make this assessment interview easier for you?" is more general and may not directly address the specific issue of hearing difficulty. Option C, "I notice you are frowning. Are you feeling annoyed with me?" assumes the patient's emotions without addressing the potential hearing issue. Option D, "You're having trouble focusing on what I'm saying. What is distracting you?" assumes a focus issue rather than considering hearing impairment.
Question 2 of 5
A college-aged student and his friend arrive at the student health center. The friend reports that the patient has been having difficulties concentrating, remembering, and thinking. 'He's had quite a few research papers due this past week.' After ruling out other problems, the nurse determines that the patient is experiencing a culture-bound syndrome. Which of the following would the nurse most likely suspect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Brain fog. The symptoms described by the friend, such as difficulties concentrating, remembering, and thinking, are characteristic of brain fog, a common term used to describe cognitive difficulties. This is not specific to any particular culture, making it a more likely explanation compared to the other choices. A: Ataque de nervios is a culture-bound syndrome seen in Latino populations, characterized by symptoms like emotional distress and uncontrollable outbursts, which do not align with the symptoms described in the scenario. C: Mal de ojo is another culture-bound syndrome, known as the evil eye, which is believed to cause harm through a malevolent glare. This does not align with the cognitive difficulties described in the scenario. D: Shenjing shuairo is a culture-bound syndrome in Chinese populations, characterized by physical and psychological symptoms, such as weakness and fatigue, which are not consistent with the cognitive symptoms described in the scenario.
Question 3 of 5
When communicating with a patient, which of the following would the nurse use to convey positive body language?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sitting at the patient's eye level. This choice promotes open communication and shows respect to the patient. It helps establish a connection and makes the patient feel valued. Sitting erect (A) shows attentiveness, but not necessarily positive body language. Crossing arms (B) can signal defensiveness or closed-off attitude. Keeping feet flat on the floor with legs crossed (D) may appear relaxed but can be perceived as too casual or disengaged in a healthcare setting.
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 group of nursing students is reviewing risk and protective factors associated for mental disorders in the older adult population. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which of the following as a protective factor?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Education. Education is a protective factor for mental disorders in older adults because higher levels of education are associated with better cognitive functioning and a lower risk of developing mental health issues. Education also provides individuals with better problem-solving skills and access to resources that can help them cope with stressors. A: Poverty is incorrect because it is a risk factor for mental disorders due to increased stress, lack of access to resources, and limited opportunities for mental health care. C: Loss is incorrect as it can be a risk factor for mental disorders in older adults, such as grief and depression following the loss of a loved one. D: Chronic illness is incorrect as it can also be a risk factor for mental disorders due to the physical and emotional burden it places on individuals.