ATI RN
Psychotropic Medication Side Effects Questions
Question 1 of 5
When should a nurse be most alert to the possibility of communication errors resulting in harm to the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, change of shift report, because it is a critical time when patient information is being transferred between nurses, and any miscommunication can lead to errors in patient care. During this time, details about medications, treatments, and patient conditions are being exchanged, making it crucial for the nurse to be alert to prevent any potential harm to the patient. Choice B, admission interviews, may also be important for gathering accurate patient information, but the level of detail and criticality of communication errors during shift change is higher. Choices C and D, one-to-one conversations with patients and conversations with patient families, are important communication opportunities, but they may not carry the same level of risk for errors resulting in harm as the change of shift report does.
Question 2 of 5
When considering stress, what is the primary goal of making daily entries into a personal journal?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Expressing emotions to manage stress. By making daily entries in a personal journal, individuals can effectively express their emotions, thoughts, and feelings related to stress. This process helps in acknowledging and processing these emotions, leading to better stress management. Writing in a journal can serve as a cathartic outlet, allowing individuals to release pent-up emotions and gain clarity on their stressors. This practice promotes self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of control over stressors. Incorrect Choices: A: Providing a distraction from the daily stress - Journaling is more about facing and processing stress rather than avoiding it. C: Identifying stress triggers - While journaling may help in identifying stress triggers, the primary goal is to express emotions rather than solely focusing on triggers. D: Focusing on one's stress - Journaling aims to manage stress by expressing emotions, not by fixating solely on stress itself.
Question 3 of 5
Which statement made by the patient demonstrates an understanding of the treatment of choice for patients managing the effects of traumatic events?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Attending therapy sessions regularly demonstrates commitment to treatment and understanding the importance of therapy in managing the effects of traumatic events. Regular therapy sessions provide a safe space to process emotions and develop coping strategies. Choice B is incorrect because hiding intrusive memories can worsen symptoms and prevent healing. Choice C is incorrect as keeping busy may serve as a distraction but does not address the underlying issues of trauma. Choice D is incorrect as moving in with parents may provide support but does not necessarily indicate understanding of the appropriate treatment for managing traumatic events.
Question 4 of 5
During a routine health screening, a grieving widow whose husband died 15 months ago reports emptiness, a loss of self, difficulty thinking of the future, and anger at her dead husband. The nurse suggests bereavement counseling. The widow is most likely suffering from:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Major depression. This is because the widow is experiencing symptoms such as emptiness, loss of self, difficulty thinking of the future, and anger, which are characteristic of major depression. These symptoms have persisted for an extended period (15 months) and are impacting her daily functioning. Summary of other choices: B: Normal grieving typically involves feelings of sadness, loss, and emotional pain, but usually does not last for as long as 15 months and does not usually cause significant impairment in daily life. C: Adjustment disorder involves an excessive response to a stressful event, but the widow's symptoms are more indicative of major depression due to their severity and duration. D: Posttraumatic stress disorder typically involves flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance related to a traumatic event, but these symptoms are not present in the widow's case.
Question 5 of 5
A registered nurse is caring for an older male who reports depressive symptoms since his wife of 54 years died suddenly. He cries, maintains closed body posture, and avoids eye contact. Which nursing action describes attending behavior?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because sitting with the patient and taking cues for when to talk or remain silent demonstrates attending behavior. This approach allows the nurse to provide emotional support by being present and actively listening to the patient's needs without imposing advice or solutions. This nonverbal communication can help the patient feel understood and cared for during a difficult time. Choice A is incorrect because it minimizes the patient's feelings and suggests a quick fix rather than acknowledging and addressing the underlying emotions. Choice B is also incorrect as using a soft tone of voice is important but does not fully encompass attending behavior. Choice D is incorrect as offering medication and bereavement services is premature without first connecting with the patient on an emotional level.