ATI RN
Multiple Choice Questions on Psychiatric Emergencies Questions
Question 1 of 5
When do antidepressants start working?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (2 to 4 weeks) because antidepressants typically take around 2 to 4 weeks to start showing noticeable effects. Initially, the medication needs time to build up in the system and adjust serotonin levels in the brain. It takes a few weeks for the neurotransmitter balance to stabilize and for the individual to experience improvements in mood and symptoms. Choice A (1 to 2 weeks) is too soon for significant effects to occur. Choice C (4 to 6 weeks) and D (6 to 8 weeks) are too long for the typical onset of action for most antidepressants.
Question 2 of 5
Patient who is administered Lithium. Which laboratory test should be checked?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct laboratory test to check for a patient administered with Lithium is serum creatinine. This is crucial because Lithium can affect kidney function, leading to potential kidney damage. Monitoring serum creatinine levels helps in early detection of kidney impairment. The other choices (B: Liver function tests, C: Complete blood count, D: Thyroid function tests) are not directly affected by Lithium administration and are not necessary for routine monitoring in patients taking Lithium.
Question 3 of 5
Antidepressants side effects.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation are common side effects of many antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants. These side effects are due to the medications' effects on neurotransmitters in the body. Weight gain, insomnia, and agitation (Option B) are more commonly associated with other classes of antidepressants like SSRIs. Nausea, dizziness, and headaches (Option C) are also common side effects but are not as specific to antidepressants. Fatigue, increased appetite, and sweating (Option D) are not typical side effects of most antidepressants.
Question 4 of 5
A male client with bipolar disorder who began taking lithium carbonate five days ago is complaining of excessive thirst, and the RN finds him attempting to drink water from the bathroom sink faucet. Which intervention should the RN implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Excessive thirst in a client on lithium carbonate may indicate lithium toxicity. Step 2: Reporting the serum lithium level to the healthcare provider is crucial for monitoring and adjusting the dosage. Step 3: This intervention ensures timely intervention to prevent lithium toxicity complications. Step 4: Other choices are incorrect: - B: Sucking on hard candy won't address the underlying issue of lithium toxicity. - C: Polydipsia is not a common side effect of lithium; it indicates possible toxicity. - D: Prohibiting faucet drinking doesn't address the immediate need to assess and manage lithium levels.
Question 5 of 5
Therapeutic Milieu: Pt had a recent suicide attempt after his wife offered divorce, lost his job, and his best friend moved away. What is the best nursing intervention to support therapeutic Milieu?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because encouraging activities that allow the patient to take control over his environment promotes empowerment and autonomy, which are essential for therapeutic milieu. This intervention helps the patient regain a sense of control and self-worth, fostering positive coping mechanisms. B: Providing constant supervision may make the patient feel restricted and monitored, impeding trust and therapeutic relationship. C: Limiting interactions with other clients may lead to feelings of isolation and lack of social support, which are crucial in therapeutic milieu. D: Administering sedative medications may address symptoms temporarily but does not address the underlying issues or promote active participation in the therapeutic process.