ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which client diagnosis should a nurse associate with a decrease in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. A decrease in GABA levels can lead to increased excitability in the brain, which is associated with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. GABA acts as a calming agent, helping to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Individuals with panic disorder may have lower levels of GABA, contributing to their symptoms of intense fear and anxiety attacks. Therefore, a decrease in GABA levels is most closely associated with panic disorder among the options provided.
Question 2 of 5
Without authorization, a nurse administers an extra dose of narcotic tranquilizer to an agitated client. The nurses coworker observes this action but does nothing for fear of repercussion. What is the ethical interpretation of the coworkers lack of involvement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Taking no action is still considered an action by the coworker. In this situation, the coworker witnessing the unauthorized administration of an extra dose of narcotic tranquilizer has a moral and ethical responsibility to intervene and prevent harm to the client. By choosing not to act, the coworker is passively allowing a potentially harmful situation to occur, which can be seen as complicity in the wrongdoing. Ethical principles dictate that individuals have a duty to act when they witness unethical or harmful behavior, even if it may be difficult or lead to repercussions. Thus, inaction in such a scenario does not release the coworker from ethical responsibility.
Question 3 of 5
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia refuses to take medication, citing the right of autonomy. Under which circumstance would a nurse have the right to medicate the client against the clients wishes?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse would have the right to medicate the client against their wishes when the client poses a serious threat to themselves or others. In this scenario, the client physically attacked another client after being confronted in group therapy, which indicates a risk of harm to others. In situations where the client's behavior poses a danger to themselves or others, the nurse may need to intervene to ensure the safety of everyone involved, even if it means administering medication against the client's wishes. It is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals in such circumstances.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia receives fluphenazine decanoate (Prolixin Decanoate) from a home health nurse. The client refuses medication at one regularly scheduled home visit. Which nursing intervention is ethically appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A client has the right to refuse medication, and it is essential to respect their autonomy and decision-making capacity. Allowing the client to decline the medication and documenting the refusal is an ethically appropriate nursing intervention in this situation. Coercion, such as threatening hospitalization (Option B) or administering medication without consent (Option D), is not in line with ethical principles and can violate the client's rights. Similarly, adding medication to the client's orange juice without their knowledge or consent (Option C) is deceptive and unethical. Respecting the client's autonomy and documenting their refusal allows for open communication and partnership in addressing their healthcare needs.
Question 5 of 5
A client is concerned that information given to the nurse remains confidential. Which is the nurses best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse's best response is C, "If the information impacts your care, I will need to share it with the treatment team." This response explains the important aspect of confidentiality while also emphasizing that if the information is relevant to the client's care, it may need to be shared with the treatment team for better assessment and management. It shows respect for the client's privacy while also prioritizing their well-being and treatment. It balances the ethical duty of confidentiality with the responsibility to provide effective care based on all available information.