ATI RN
Behavioral Questions for Nurse Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which documentation indicates that the treatment plan for a patient in an alcohol treatment program was effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is option A because it demonstrates the most concrete evidence of treatment effectiveness. The patient being abstinent for 10 days indicates immediate compliance with the treatment plan. Additionally, stating "I can maintain sobriety one day at a time" reflects a key principle of Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery programs, showing the patient's understanding of their journey. Moreover, the fact that the employer is willing to allow the patient to return to work in 3 weeks suggests positive progress and support from the external environment. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they each have red flags indicating potential relapse or misalignment with effective treatment outcomes. Option B's statement of "My problems are under control" may indicate overconfidence or denial of ongoing issues. Option C's focus on helping others and finding jobs for them instead of personal recovery suggests a lack of self-awareness. Option D's statement about being able to handle one or two drinks raises concerns about boundaries and potential relapse triggers. In an educational context, this question assesses the nurse's ability to interpret patient progress and treatment effectiveness based on documentation. It highlights the importance of looking for concrete evidence of compliance with treatment plans, understanding of recovery principles, and integration of support systems in evaluating patient outcomes in alcohol treatment programs. By understanding these nuances, nurses can provide more effective care and support to individuals struggling with addiction.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is admitted for alcohol detoxification. The nurse observes the patient to be agitated and sweaty, with hand tremors. What is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Assess for signs of withdrawal. In this scenario, the priority nursing intervention is to assess for signs of withdrawal because the patient is exhibiting symptoms like agitation, sweating, and hand tremors, which are indicative of alcohol withdrawal. Early identification of withdrawal symptoms is crucial in preventing potential complications such as seizures, delirium tremens, or even death. By assessing the patient for signs of withdrawal, the nurse can determine the severity of the withdrawal symptoms and initiate appropriate interventions promptly. Option A) Provide a quiet, calm environment, is important in managing withdrawal symptoms, but it is not the priority at this moment. Option B) Encourage the patient to drink fluids may be beneficial, but it does not address the immediate concern of assessing for withdrawal symptoms. Option C) Administer medications as prescribed may be necessary, but without a thorough assessment of withdrawal symptoms, the nurse may not know which medications are most appropriate for the patient's condition. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of recognizing and managing alcohol withdrawal in patients. Nurses need to be able to prioritize interventions based on the patient's condition and assess for potential complications. This question reinforces the critical thinking skills required in nursing practice to ensure patient safety and well-being.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. The patient states, 'I feel like I've failed in everything I've done.' Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct nursing diagnosis for the patient expressing feelings of failure is option B) Hopelessness. Major depressive disorder often manifests with feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness. By selecting this diagnosis, the nurse acknowledges the patient's emotional state and can initiate appropriate interventions to address these feelings and promote mental health. Option A) Powerlessness may not be the most appropriate diagnosis in this case as the patient is expressing feelings of failure rather than lack of control over their situation. Option C) Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements is not relevant to the patient's statement about feeling like a failure. Option D) Risk for suicide, while important to assess in patients with major depressive disorder, is not the most appropriate initial nursing diagnosis based solely on the patient's statement about feeling like a failure. In an educational context, understanding how to accurately identify and prioritize nursing diagnoses is crucial for providing effective care to patients. By choosing the correct nursing diagnosis, nurses can tailor their interventions to address the specific needs of each individual patient, promoting holistic care and positive patient outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse on an inpatient unit is caring for a group of clients who have depression. When planning care, which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option B, which is the newly admitted client who has bipolar I disorder. The rationale behind this choice lies in the acuity and potential risk associated with bipolar I disorder. This condition can involve severe mood swings, including manic episodes that may require immediate attention to ensure the safety of the client and others. Option A is incorrect because premenstrual dysphoric disorder, while significant, does not typically present an immediate threat to the client's safety that would necessitate urgent intervention. Option C, the client with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, is also less urgent as this disorder is characterized by chronic irritability rather than acute mood disturbances that require immediate attention. Option D, the client with a history of dysthymic disorder, is not the priority as this condition is a persistent depressive disorder that does not typically involve the same level of acuity as bipolar I disorder. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing care based on the acuity of the client's condition. It emphasizes the need for nurses to assess and manage clients with more acute and potentially dangerous conditions first to ensure their safety and well-being.
Question 5 of 5
A school nurse is planning a presentation about identifying potential warning signs of suicide for high school students. Which of the following examples of behaviors should the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option D: Displaying extreme mood swings. This behavior is a potential warning sign of suicide because extreme mood swings, especially sudden shifts from extreme sadness to extreme calmness, can indicate an individual struggling with significant emotional distress. Option A, seeking a tutor for help with a challenging class, is a healthy and proactive behavior that shows a student's willingness to seek academic support. While academic struggles can contribute to stress, it is not typically a direct warning sign of suicide. Option B, volunteering at a homeless shelter, demonstrates empathy and community involvement. Engaging in volunteer work is generally a positive behavior that promotes social connection and a sense of purpose, factors that can actually protect against suicide. Option C, making plans to go to a high school dance, is a typical social activity for high school students. While changes in social behavior can sometimes be linked to mental health issues, simply attending a dance is not a specific warning sign of suicide. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses and educators to be able to identify potential warning signs of suicide in students. By recognizing behaviors such as extreme mood swings, professionals can intervene early and connect students to appropriate support services to prevent tragic outcomes. Providing this knowledge equips school staff to create a safe and supportive environment for students' mental health and well-being.