ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice B Questions
Question 1 of 5
When planning care for a client with schizophrenia, which of the following interventions should be included in the plan of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When caring for a client with schizophrenia, encouraging reality testing is essential. This intervention assists the client in distinguishing between delusions and reality, aiding in their treatment. While providing opportunities for socialization can help reduce isolation, monitoring for command hallucinations is crucial for the client's safety. Promoting adherence to the medication regimen is vital for symptom management. Addressing delusional thoughts in a therapeutic manner is preferable to outright discouragement, fostering a supportive environment for the client.
Question 2 of 5
A client is diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement? Select one that does not apply.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Interventions for a client with GAD should include encouraging the client to express their feelings, teaching relaxation techniques, and promoting regular physical activity. Caffeine should be avoided as it can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Stimulants like caffeine can increase feelings of restlessness and nervousness, making it counterproductive in managing anxiety. Choices A, B, and C are appropriate interventions for managing generalized anxiety disorder by promoting emotional expression, relaxation, and physical well-being, respectively. Choice D, encouraging the use of caffeine, is incorrect as it can worsen anxiety symptoms rather than alleviate them.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following are symptoms of a panic attack? Select one that does not apply.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Symptoms of a panic attack can include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and hot flashes. Normal breathing is not a symptom of a panic attack; instead, individuals experiencing a panic attack may often exhibit rapid or shallow breathing patterns. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choices A, C, and D are typical symptoms associated with panic attacks, making them incorrect answers.
Question 4 of 5
What intervention should the nurse implement for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) performing ritualistic handwashing?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: For a client with OCD performing ritualistic handwashing, the nurse should initially allow the client to continue the behavior. Abruptly stopping the behavior or providing a distraction can heighten the client's anxiety. Encouraging the client to perform the ritual more quickly does not address the underlying issue of OCD and may exacerbate their anxiety. Providing a distraction to interrupt the ritual may not be effective in the long term and could lead to increased distress. Gradual limits should be established over time to help the client manage and reduce the ritualistic behavior effectively.
Question 5 of 5
A healthcare professional is assessing a client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing a depressive episode. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect? Select one that does not apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In bipolar disorder, depressive episodes are characterized by symptoms that mirror those of major depressive disorder, including low mood, anhedonia (loss of interest in activities), and significant changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels. The correct answer is **A (High energy)** because it is inconsistent with the typical presentation of a depressive episode in bipolar disorder. Depressive episodes involve **low energy or fatigue**, not high energy, which is instead a hallmark of manic or hypomanic episodes. High energy would suggest a shift toward mania, not depression. **B (Feelings of hopelessness)** is a classic symptom of depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. Patients often experience pervasive sadness, guilt, worthlessness, or pessimism about the future. These emotional symptoms are central to the diagnostic criteria for a depressive episode, making this choice expected in this context. **C (Insomnia or hypersomnia)** is also a common feature of depressive episodes. Sleep disturbances are a key diagnostic criterion—some individuals struggle with insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), while others experience hypersomnia (excessive sleep). Both reflect dysregulation in sleep patterns that frequently accompany depression. **D (Decreased appetite)** is another expected finding in depressive episodes. Many individuals report reduced interest in food, leading to weight loss. While some may experience increased appetite (particularly in atypical depression), decreased appetite is a well-documented symptom in standard depressive presentations, including those in bipolar disorder. The question asks for the finding that **does not apply**, and **A (High energy)** is the clear outlier. It represents a contradiction to the expected symptomatology of depression, aligning instead with manic states where energy, activity, and mood are elevated. The other options (B, C, D) are all consistent with depressive episodes, reinforcing that high energy is the inappropriate choice in this clinical scenario. Understanding these distinctions is critical for accurate diagnosis and appropriate intervention in bipolar disorder.