ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 9
When preparing the plan of care for a forensic client, a nurse determines not to investigate the details of the crime. Which of the following best supports the rationale for the nurse's decision?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because not investigating the crime details will help the nurse maintain unbiased attitudes towards the client and provide care without being influenced by personal opinions or judgments. By avoiding learning about the crime, the nurse can focus on the client's health needs and promote a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. A: This choice is incorrect because the nurse's personal feelings of fear should not dictate the decision-making process in providing care for the client. B: This choice is incorrect because protecting the nurse from anxiety is not the primary reason for not investigating the crime details. The focus should be on providing effective care for the client. D: This choice is incorrect because maintaining professional boundaries is important, but the primary reason for not investigating the crime details is to ensure impartiality and quality care for the client.
Question 2 of 9
While interviewing a patient, a nurse asks, 'What do you do when you get angry?' Which patient response would indicate to the nurse that the patient engages in anger suppression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because withdrawing and pouting about the problem indicates a passive-aggressive behavior associated with anger suppression. This response suggests that the patient avoids direct confrontation and attempts to mask their anger by withdrawing and internalizing their emotions. A: "I've been known to fly off the handle when I'm angry." - This response indicates explosive anger expression, not suppression. C: "I usually approach the person directly to talk about it." - This response suggests open communication, not suppression. D: "I try to discuss how I'm feeling about it with a close friend." - This response implies seeking support and emotional expression, not suppression.
Question 3 of 9
A student nurse is studying for an exam on the recovery process. What is an example of a statement that demonstrates their understanding to their study group?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Recovery is a nonlinear process based on instilling hope." This answer demonstrates a deep understanding of the recovery process as it acknowledges that recovery is not a straightforward path and emphasizes the importance of instilling hope in individuals undergoing recovery. Recovery from mental illness or substance use is a complex and individualized journey that may involve setbacks and progress. Instilling hope is crucial in motivating individuals to continue working towards their recovery goals. Choice A is incorrect because it presents a pessimistic view that the majority of people do not recover, which is not aligned with the recovery-oriented approach. Choice B is incorrect as it implies that the healthcare team solely dictates the recovery process, disregarding the individual's autonomy and empowerment. Choice D is incorrect as it overlooks the collaborative nature of the recovery process and places the responsibility solely on the client.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The nurse has instructed the client about using the communication triad. The nurse determines that the client has understood this technique when he states which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. "I should start by stating my feelings as an 'I' statement" is correct because using 'I' statements helps the client express their feelings without blaming others. 2. By starting with their own feelings, the client takes ownership of their emotions and promotes effective communication. 3. This approach also helps in avoiding conflict and promotes empathy and understanding between the client and the other person. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because starting with describing the situation may lead to blaming or accusing the other person. - Option C is incorrect because starting with what the client wants to change may come across as demanding or aggressive. - Option D is incorrect because starting with what triggered the emotion may focus on external factors rather than the client's feelings.
Question 5 of 9
A nurse who is working as part of an interdisciplinary team is looking at potential outpatient services for a patient. The patient requires a setting that provides a program of about 4 hours per day, three times per week with a 24-hour crisis and consultation service. The nurse would identify which of the following as appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ambulatory level two. This setting provides a structured program of about 4 hours per day, three times per week, which aligns with the patient's needs. Additionally, it offers a 24-hour crisis and consultation service, ensuring comprehensive support. A: Primary care setting does not typically offer the intensity and frequency of services required for this patient. B: Ambulatory level one may not provide the necessary duration and frequency of the program. D: Multimodal outpatient setting does not specify the intensity and frequency of services needed for this patient.
Question 6 of 9
The nurse is counseling a family with a child who has been abused by an adult family friend in the past. When explaining about the child's needs, which of the following would be most important for the nurse to stress?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: A supportive relationship with an adult is crucial for the child to rebuild trust and feel safe after experiencing abuse. Step 2: Long-term psychotherapy may be beneficial, but establishing a supportive relationship is the primary focus. Step 3: Antidepressant medications may be used if necessary, but the primary need is emotional support. Step 4: Short-term separation from parents can further traumatize the child; maintaining a supportive family environment is key. Summary: Choice A is correct because it addresses the immediate emotional needs of the child post-abuse, while the other choices focus on secondary or potentially harmful interventions.
Question 7 of 9
Mrs. Rodriguez, a sixty-year-old female, is struggling with an addiction to alcohol. What community services could support Mrs. Rodriguez?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, a community program for substance use, as it offers specialized support for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. These programs provide counseling, therapy, and resources tailored to address addiction issues. State hospitalization (A) is not appropriate for Mrs. Rodriguez unless she is in immediate danger. Family support groups (B) may not address Mrs. Rodriguez's specific needs. Narcotics Anonymous (D) is geared towards drug addiction, not alcohol addiction. In summary, choice C is the best option for Mrs. Rodriguez as it offers comprehensive support and resources specifically for alcohol addiction.
Question 8 of 9
A client with a mental disorder is being discharged from the inpatient unit. During the client's stay in the hospital, the client eventually was able to get an adequate night's sleep even though the client had experienced chronic insomnia over the years. The client's spouse asks the nurse what the family can do in the client's home environment to promote healthy sleep. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is C: "Remember to keep stimulating activities at a minimum before he goes to bed." This is the correct answer because engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime can disrupt sleep. It is essential to create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep patterns. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the importance of avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime or promoting a calming environment for sleep. Option A puts the responsibility solely on the client, missing the opportunity for the family to support healthy sleep habits. Option B suggests alcohol consumption before bed, which can negatively impact sleep quality. Option D recommends a spicy snack and tea before bed, which can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep. Ultimately, choice C is the best option as it focuses on creating a conducive environment for restful sleep.
Question 9 of 9
Therapeutic communication is the foundation of a patient-centered interview. Which of the following techniques is not considered therapeutic?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Asking 'why' questions. This technique is not considered therapeutic in therapeutic communication because it can come off as confrontational or judgmental, potentially making the patient defensive. Instead, therapeutic communication aims to create a safe and supportive environment for the patient to express their thoughts and feelings openly. Restating, encouraging description of perception, and summarizing are all considered therapeutic techniques as they demonstrate active listening, empathy, and understanding, which help build trust and rapport with the patient. Asking open-ended questions that explore the patient's feelings and experiences without implying judgment or blame is more effective in facilitating meaningful discussions and promoting patient-centered care.