ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which aspect of direct care is an experienced, inpatient psychiatric nurse most likely to provide for a patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because building assertiveness skills is a crucial aspect of direct care in psychiatric nursing. It helps patients communicate effectively, set boundaries, and advocate for themselves, leading to improved self-esteem and empowerment. Hygiene assistance (A) is important but not specific to psychiatric care. Diversional activities (B) and job hunting assistance (C) are valuable interventions, but building assertiveness skills (D) directly supports the patient's mental health recovery and coping strategies.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse says, "I am the only one who truly understands this patient. Other staff members are too critical." The nurse's statement indicates
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: boundary blurring. The nurse's statement suggests an inappropriate emotional involvement with the patient, crossing professional boundaries. This can lead to biased decision-making and hinder teamwork. Sexual harassment (B) and positive regard (C) are not applicable in this context. Advocacy (D) involves supporting and promoting the patient's best interests, which is not demonstrated in the nurse's statement.
Question 3 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 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 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 6 of 9
A nurse has used the Geriatric Depression Scale (short form) to assess an older adult client for depression. Which score would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is mildly depressed?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (5). The Geriatric Depression Scale short form ranges from 0 to 15, with higher scores indicating more severe depression. A score of 5 falls within the mild depression range (0-9), suggesting the client is mildly depressed. Scores of 3 (A), 8 (C), and 13 (D) would indicate minimal or no depression (0-4), moderate depression (10-14), and severe depression (15), respectively. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate score to suspect mild depression in this case.
Question 7 of 9
A hospitalized patient who has been taking an antipsychotic medication for 2 weeks begins pacing and walking throughout the unit. He tells the nurse that he 'cannot sit still.' The nurse documents this finding as which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Akathisia. Akathisia is a common extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications characterized by an inner restlessness and an inability to sit still. In this scenario, the patient's symptoms of pacing and walking throughout the unit, along with feeling like he 'cannot sit still,' align with the definition of akathisia. A: Akinesia refers to a lack of movement and is not consistent with the patient's hyperactivity. B: Dystonia presents with sustained muscle contractions, causing abnormal postures or repetitive movements. C: Pseudoparkinsonism manifests as symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors and rigidity, which are not present in the patient's case.
Question 8 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 9 of 9
A female consumer with severe and recurrent mania argues with outpatient staff about her medication. She does not believe she has a mental illness. Although she takes medication during hospitalizations, she stops taking them after discharge. Which intervention is most helpful in promoting medication adherence?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it focuses on exploring the patient's perceptions and experiences regarding medication and linking medication adherence to her personal goals. By understanding the patient's beliefs and motivations, the healthcare provider can tailor interventions to address her specific concerns and increase her willingness to take medication. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and empowers her to make informed decisions about her treatment. Choice A is incorrect because changing staff members may not address the underlying issues contributing to medication non-adherence. Choice B is not as effective as it focuses solely on explaining the benefits and side effects of medication without considering the patient's individual beliefs and concerns. Choice C, while providing education, does not address the patient's personal experiences and motivations, which are crucial in promoting medication adherence.