ATI RN
Psychiatric Emergency Questions
Question 1 of 5
When preparing to administer a domestic violence screening tool to a female client, which statement should the RN provide?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: A. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of screening all clients for domestic abuse, as it is common and often underreported. B. While ensuring the client's safety is important, it does not address the prevalence of domestic violence in society. C. Domestic abuse screening may not be required by law in all jurisdictions, making this statement inaccurate. D. All clients should be encouraged to participate in screening to identify potential abuse, regardless of personal comfort levels.
Question 2 of 5
Pt is mad at mom for turning him in and wants mom to bring belongings and does not want to talk to her. What action does the nurse need to take before the visit?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because discussing methods of clear communication is essential to address Pt's anger and facilitate a productive interaction with his mom. By helping Pt express his feelings effectively, misunderstandings can be minimized. Choice B is incorrect as simply allowing the client to express anger may not lead to resolution. Choice C is incorrect as forgiveness should be a personal decision, not forced. Choice D is incorrect as postponing the visit does not address the underlying communication issues.
Question 3 of 5
A client who is being treated with lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder develops diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider of the symptoms prior to the next administration of the drug because these symptoms could indicate lithium toxicity. The healthcare provider needs to assess the client's condition and determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted or if other interventions are necessary. A: Administering an antidote without consulting the healthcare provider could be dangerous and inappropriate without proper evaluation. C: Diarrhea, vomiting, and drowsiness are not normal side effects of lithium and may indicate a problem that requires intervention. D: Holding the medication without consulting the healthcare provider could lead to abrupt withdrawal and potential rebound symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
A male client turns over a table in the dayroom of a psychiatric unit and threatens to throw a chair at another client. Which action is most important for the nurse to implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Obtain staff assistance to help diffuse the escalating situation. This is the most important action because it prioritizes safety by involving more staff to manage the potentially dangerous situation. It ensures a team approach to address the aggressive behavior, reduces the risk of harm to others, and increases the likelihood of a successful de-escalation. Administering sedative medication (B) should only be considered as a last resort to ensure safety. Confronting the client (C) may escalate the situation further. Moving other clients to a safe area (D) is important but not as immediate or effective as obtaining staff assistance.
Question 5 of 5
A middle-aged adult with major depressive disorder suffers from psychomotor retardation, hypersomnia, and amotivation. Which intervention is likely to be most effective in returning this client to a normal level of functioning?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Teach the client to develop a plan of structured activities. Structured activities can help combat psychomotor retardation and amotivation by providing a sense of purpose and routine. This intervention promotes engagement and can help the client regain motivation and energy. Group therapy (B) may be beneficial but might not address the immediate need for structured activities. Administering PRN stimulant medications (C) can have risks and may not address the underlying issues. Providing constant supervision and support (D) may create dependency rather than fostering independence and self-management skills.