ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
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 5
Which medication from the medication administration record should a nurse administer to provide immediate intervention for a psychotic patient whose aggressive behavior continues to escalate despite verbal intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Olanzapine. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication that acts quickly to help manage aggressive behavior in psychotic patients. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to reduce agitation and aggression. A: Lithium is used for mood stabilization in conditions like bipolar disorder, not for immediate intervention in escalating aggression. B: Trazodone is an antidepressant often used for sleep disturbances, not typically indicated for acute aggression. D: Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant used for seizure disorders, not typically used for immediate aggression control. In summary, Olanzapine is the most appropriate choice for immediate intervention in managing escalating aggressive behavior in a psychotic patient due to its rapid onset and effectiveness in reducing agitation and aggression.
Question 3 of 5
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 4 of 5
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 5 of 5
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.