ATI RN
ATI Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which belief would be least helpful for a nurse working in crisis intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because believing that a person in crisis is incapable of responding to instruction is detrimental for a nurse in crisis intervention. Nurses should believe in the patient's ability to respond and engage in the counseling process. Choice B is incorrect as crisis counseling is a professional-client relationship. Choice C is incorrect as crisis counseling aims to help patients see their situation more clearly, not just refocus. Choice D is incorrect as anxiety-reduction techniques are used to help patients manage their emotions, not necessarily to access inner resources.
Question 2 of 5
A student nurse is learning about ASD. What statement to the clinical instructor demonstrates that the student understands the definition of this disorder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "The signs and symptoms of this disorder usually begin before age three." This statement demonstrates understanding of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) because it aligns with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, where symptoms typically manifest in early childhood, often before age three. This early onset distinguishes ASD from other developmental disorders. Incorrect choices: A: The signs and symptoms of ASD do not go away at age eighteen. Symptoms persist into adulthood. C: ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not primarily based on physical symptoms. D: Describing ASD as a developmental disorder is accurate, but it does not specifically address the typical onset before age three, which is crucial for understanding the disorder.
Question 3 of 5
Which initial information gathered by the nurse is most important when assessing Erikson's stages of development?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B - The developmental age exhibited through behaviors. This is crucial because Erikson's stages of development focus on psychosocial milestones and individuals can exhibit behaviors that reflect their current stage, regardless of chronological age. Understanding the developmental age exhibited through behaviors provides insights into which stage the individual is in and helps tailor appropriate interventions. The other choices are incorrect because: A: The chronological age may not accurately reflect the individual's stage of development. C: The time frame needed to complete a successful outcome at a previous stage is not directly relevant to assessing Erikson's stages. D: The implementation of interventions based on developmental age is important but not as crucial as assessing the developmental age exhibited through behaviors in understanding Erikson's stages.
Question 4 of 5
In dealing therapeutically with a variety of psychiatric clients, the nurse knows that incorporating humor into the communication process should be used for which purpose?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To maintain a balanced perspective. Humor can help clients see situations from a different angle, promoting a balanced outlook. It can also create a more relaxed atmosphere, aiding in therapeutic communication. Using humor solely to diminish anger (A) may not address the underlying issues. While humor can refocus attention (B), it should ultimately lead to a balanced perspective. Using humor to delay dealing with issues (D) is counterproductive to therapeutic goals.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse wants to find information on current evidence-based research, programs, and practices regarding mental illness and addictions. Which resource should the nurse consult?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). SAMHSA is the best resource for evidence-based research, programs, and practices on mental illness and addictions as it is the leading agency in the U.S. for improving behavioral health. SAMHSA provides up-to-date information, guidelines, and resources based on scientific research and best practices. It focuses specifically on mental health and substance abuse issues, making it the most relevant and reliable source for the nurse's needs. A: The American Psychiatric Association focuses more on the professional organization for psychiatrists rather than providing specific resources on evidence-based research and programs. B: The American Psychological Association is more focused on psychology-related research and practices, not specifically on mental illness and addictions. C: The Clinician's Quick Guide to Interpersonal Psychotherapy is a specific resource on a therapy approach, which may not cover the broad range of information the nurse is seeking on mental illness and addictions.