ATI RN
Mental Health ATI Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which assessment finding most clearly indicates that a patient may be experiencing a mental illness? The patient
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because reporting consistently sad, discouraged, and hopeless mood is a key indicator of a mental illness, specifically depression. This finding suggests a persistent negative emotional state that goes beyond occasional sleeplessness and anxiety (choice A), the ability to describe differences in perceptions (choice C), or difficulty in making decisions related to job changes (choice D). The persistent nature of the mood described in choice B aligns more closely with symptoms of mental illness, indicating the need for further assessment and potential intervention.
Question 2 of 5
When a female Mexican American patient and a female nurse sit together, the patient often holds the nurse's han The patient also links arms with the nurse when they walk. The nurse is uncomfortable with this behavior. Which analysis is most accurate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. In many Hispanic subcultures, including Mexican American culture, touch is commonly used during conversation as a form of connection and warmth. This behavior is considered a cultural norm and a way to establish rapport. The patient's actions are likely not intended to manipulate the nurse or control the relationship, as suggested in choices B and D. Choice C assumes the patient's behavior is solely driven by fear of being alone, which may not be the case. Overall, the most accurate analysis is that the patient is accustomed to touch as a cultural norm within Hispanic subcultures, making choice A the correct answer.
Question 3 of 5
The following are important legislative and policy efforts influencing current mental health care. Which of the following is the most recent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General, as it was published in 1999, making it the most recent compared to the other choices. The Surgeon General's report highlighted the importance of mental health and influenced policy changes. Explanation: 1. A is the most recent among the choices. 2. Published in 1999, addressing current mental health issues. 3. Emphasized the significance of mental health in policy-making. 4. Influenced subsequent legislative and policy efforts. Summary: B: New Freedom Commission on Mental Health was established in 2002, making it less recent. C: Action for Mental Health was published in 1961, making it the oldest choice. D: Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act was passed in 1963, predating the Surgeon General's report.
Question 4 of 5
A nursing instructor is integrating Piaget's theory of cognitive development into the discussion of learning and mental health issues affecting adolescents. The instructor would identify this age group as in which stage?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Formal operations. Adolescents are typically in Piaget's formal operations stage, which occurs around ages 11 to adulthood. In this stage, individuals develop abstract thinking, logical reasoning, hypothetical thinking, and problem-solving skills. This stage allows adolescents to think about possibilities, consequences, and hypothetical situations. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they correspond to earlier stages of cognitive development. Concrete operations (choice A) typically occur between ages 7 to 11, preoperational (choice B) between ages 2 to 7, and sensorimotor (choice D) from birth to 2 years old. These stages do not align with the cognitive abilities and characteristics of adolescents.
Question 5 of 5
A nursing instructor is preparing a class lecture about cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Which of the following would the instructor use to best describe this process?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on helping patients change their thoughts and behaviors to improve their mental health. In CBT, patients work collaboratively with the therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. By changing these cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors, patients can improve their emotional well-being. Choice A is incorrect because CBT is not about solving patients' problems for them, but rather empowering them to solve their own issues. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses solely on behavior modification and does not address the cognitive component of CBT. Choice C is incorrect because CBT aims to challenge and change distorted beliefs rather than reinforcing them.