ATI RN
ATI 2019 Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
When alprazolam is prescribed for a patient who experiences acute anxiety, health teaching should include instructions to
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: avoid alcoholic beverages. This is because alprazolam is a central nervous system depressant, and alcohol also has depressant effects. Combining the two can potentiate sedation and respiratory depression. Reporting drowsiness (A) is important but not specific to alprazolam. Eating a tyramine-free diet (B) is relevant for certain medications like MAOIs, not alprazolam. Adjusting dose and frequency based on anxiety level (D) is not recommended as it can lead to misuse or dependence.
Question 2 of 5
Based on assessment data, the nurse formulates the nursing diagnosis for a patient as sleep pattern disturbance. After teaching the patient how to relax before bedtime, the nurse determines that the teaching was effective by which outcome?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because feeling rested upon awakening indicates improved sleep quality, reflecting effective teaching on relaxation techniques. Choice A does not directly measure the effectiveness of the teaching intervention. Choice C indicates reliance on medication rather than improved sleep hygiene. Choice D, sleeping for short intervals, does not necessarily signify improved sleep quality.
Question 3 of 5
While caring for a family, the nurse determines that first-order changes have occurred with which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because first-order changes refer to small, incremental adjustments within the system. In this scenario, the parent returning to work while the children are all in school signifies a gradual shift in the family dynamic. The other choices involve significant and more disruptive changes like a daughter leaving for college, a son getting married and moving out, and the death of a family member, which are considered second-order changes that lead to more substantial shifts in the family system.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has come to the clinic to discuss the stress she is experiencing because of failing two exams at school. Initially, she described her failures as 'the worst thing that has ever happened to me,' and she stated, 'There is absolutely nothing I can do to pass this course now.' In response to the nurse's questions, the nurse finds out there are three more equally weighted exams scheduled for the course in question. The nurse and patient collaborate and decide to use interventions to facilitate emotion-focused coping. Which additional comment from the patient would the nurse identify as providing support for this decision?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient's statement shows a shift in perspective from hopelessness to a willingness to collaborate and problem-solve. By acknowledging the possibility of working together to find a solution, the patient demonstrates openness to coping strategies. Choice A displays frustration without a willingness to participate actively. Choice B reinforces hopelessness and a defeatist attitude. Choice D reinforces negative self-perception without any indication of openness to change. In summary, choice C aligns with emotion-focused coping by showing a willingness to explore solutions collaboratively.
Question 5 of 5
A hospitalized client with schizophrenia is receiving antipsychotic medications. While assessing the client, the nurse identifies signs and symptoms of a dystonic reaction. Which agent would the nurse expect to administer?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Dystonic reactions are extrapyramidal side effects commonly seen with antipsychotic medications. Diphenhydramine is a first-line treatment for dystonic reactions due to its anticholinergic properties. It helps block the excessive dopamine activity in the brain that causes these reactions. Propranolol (B) is a beta-blocker and not typically used for dystonic reactions. Risperidone (C) and Aripiprazole (D) are antipsychotic medications themselves and would not be used to treat dystonic reactions caused by antipsychotic medications.