ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which determines the scope of practice for a registered nurse employed in a psychiatric inpatient facility?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: State law, which may vary from state to state. State laws govern the scope of practice for healthcare professionals, including registered nurses in psychiatric inpatient facilities. Each state has its own Nurse Practice Act outlining the specific duties and responsibilities RNs can perform. National organizations like NAMI, NLN, and federal laws do not dictate the scope of practice for RNs in specific settings. It is crucial for nurses to be aware of and adhere to the regulations set forth by their respective state to ensure safe and legal practice.
Question 2 of 5
Which patient is the best candidate for brief psychodynamic therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because brief psychodynamic therapy is typically suitable for individuals with specific, time-limited issues like the aftermath of an extramarital affair. This type of therapy focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts and patterns related to the specific problem. Choices B, C, and D present more complex and severe issues that would likely require longer-term or more intensive therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or medical interventions. It is important to match the therapy approach to the individual's needs and presenting concerns.
Question 3 of 5
The unit secretary receives a phone call from the health insurer for a hospitalized patient. The caller seeks information about the patient's projected length of stay. How should the nurse instruct the unit secretary to handle the request?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Refer the request for information to the patient's case manager. The case manager is responsible for coordinating the patient's care, including length of stay discussions with the health insurer. This ensures that the information is handled appropriately and in accordance with privacy regulations. Incorrect answers: A: Obtaining information from the medical record and relaying it to the caller may violate patient confidentiality and privacy laws. B: While patient information is confidential, it is important to address the health insurer's request through the appropriate channels. D: Referring the request to the health care provider may not be necessary as the case manager is typically the appropriate point of contact for length of stay discussions with the health insurer.
Question 4 of 5
As a nurse escorts a patient being discharged after treatment for major depression, the patient gives the nurse a necklace with a heart pendant and says, "Thank you for helping mend my broken heart." Which is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because accepting gifts from patients can create a conflict of interest and compromise the nurse's professional boundaries. By politely declining the gift in response to the patient's gratitude, the nurse maintains professionalism and reinforces the therapeutic relationship. This response acknowledges the patient's gratitude while emphasizing the nurse's commitment to ethical practice. Choices A and B are incorrect because they either violate facility policies or fail to address the issue of accepting gifts. Choice D is incorrect as it does not address the ethical dilemma of accepting gifts from patients.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia tells the nurse, "The Central Intelligence Agency is monitoring us through the fluorescent lights in this room. The CIA is everywhere, so be careful what you say." Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it validates the patient's feelings without directly challenging their delusion. By acknowledging the patient's concern about privacy, the nurse shows empathy and maintains a therapeutic relationship. Choice A avoids addressing the patient's underlying fear and may be dismissive. Choice C provides factual information but does not address the patient's emotional needs. Choice D uses confrontational language and may increase the patient's distress by labeling their belief as a symptom of illness. Overall, option B demonstrates empathy and builds rapport with the patient, which is crucial in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia.