ATI RN
ATI Capstone Mental Health Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
When assessing a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder, which statement by the patient warrants immediate attention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because expressing a desire to hurt someone is a red flag for potential harm to self or others. This statement indicates a risk of violent behavior and immediate attention is needed to ensure safety. Statements A, B, and C are not immediate concerns as they do not suggest immediate harm or danger. A: Grief over a past event, B: Medication compliance, and C: Issues with parental relationships are important but do not pose an immediate threat.
Question 2 of 5
How can a nurse determine that a client is experiencing ineffective coping?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because ineffective coping is characterized by difficulty managing day-to-day stress. This can manifest as increased anxiety, irritability, or withdrawal. The other choices are incorrect because: A indicates the client is actively coping; B suggests motivation for behavioral change; and D implies symptoms of depression, not necessarily ineffective coping.
Question 3 of 5
What personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of by others?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dependent personality disorder (DPD). This disorder is characterized by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of by others, leading to submissive and clinging behavior. Individuals with DPD have difficulty making everyday decisions without reassurance from others. Rationale: 1. Dependent personality disorder aligns with the description of needing excessive care and being submissive. 2. Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by attention-seeking behavior, not a need for dependency. 3. Narcissistic personality disorder involves a grandiose sense of self-importance, not a need for dependency. 4. Avoidant personality disorder is marked by social inhibition and feelings of inadequacy, not a need for excessive care from others. In summary, the key characteristic of dependency and excessive need for care points to dependent personality disorder as the correct answer.
Question 4 of 5
A client on an inpatient psychiatric unit exhibits traits of borderline personality disorder. Which action by the nurse would initiate collaboration with the member of the mental health-care team who can best confirm this diagnosis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct Answer: C. Collaborate with the clinical psychologist to prepare the client for personality testing. Rationale: 1. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) diagnosis requires comprehensive assessment, including personality testing. 2. Clinical psychologists are trained to administer and interpret psychological tests, including those for personality disorders. 3. Collaborating with the clinical psychologist ensures the client receives appropriate evaluation and diagnosis. 4. Requesting medication or focusing on occupational or recreational needs may not address the core issue of confirming a BPD diagnosis. Summary: A: Requesting medication is premature without confirming the diagnosis. B: Occupational therapy focuses on retraining skills, not diagnosing personality disorders. D: Planning recreational activities may help with anxiety but does not address the need for a formal diagnosis like personality testing.
Question 5 of 5
A client who practices Orthodox Judaism is upset. The client's son has recently committed suicide. The client tearfully tells the nurse that the son may not be able to be buried with honors. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Sit with the client and allow expression of loss and sorrow. This intervention is appropriate as it demonstrates empathy, support, and active listening. By sitting with the client and allowing them to express their emotions, the nurse is providing a safe space for the client to grieve. This approach aligns with the principles of therapeutic communication and client-centered care. A: Asking the client why the son won't be buried with honors may come off as insensitive and could potentially make the client feel judged or misunderstood. B: Accepting that the client is upset and leaving them alone does not address the client's emotional distress or provide support during a difficult time. C: Calling the psychiatrist for antianxiety medication does not address the client's immediate emotional needs and may not be the most appropriate intervention in this situation.