ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which is an effective nursing intervention to assist an angry patient learn to manage anger without violence?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it promotes cognitive-behavioral techniques to manage anger effectively. By helping the patient identify triggering thoughts, evaluate their validity, and replace them with reality-based thinking, nurses can assist in changing the patient's response to anger. This intervention encourages self-awareness and empowers the patient to develop healthier coping mechanisms. Choice B is incorrect as it promotes punitive measures, which can escalate aggression and undermine trust between the patient and healthcare provider. Choice C is incorrect as aversive conditioning methods like popping a rubber band on the wrist are not evidence-based and can be harmful. Choice D is incorrect as medication should not be the first-line intervention for managing anger without violence.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for an older patient in a residential care facility. The patient has been extremely irritable the entire day. When modifying the patient's plan of care, which of the following would be an appropriate snack to offer the patient to decrease the irritability?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Glass of milk. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to mood regulation. Offering the patient a glass of milk can help increase serotonin levels, potentially decreasing irritability. A: Chocolate candy bar is high in sugar and may lead to a spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash, which can worsen irritability. B: Raisins are a source of natural sugars but lack the necessary nutrients to help regulate mood. C: Granola bar may contain added sugars and lack the specific components like tryptophan found in milk to help improve mood.
Question 3 of 5
A nursing student observes an incorrect dosage of medication being given to a client receiving electroconvulsive therapy. To implement the ethical principle of veracity, which action would the nursing student take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. By informing the student's instructor and the client's primary nurse, the nursing student upholds the ethical principle of veracity, which is being truthful and honest. This action ensures that the correct dosage of medication is administered to the client, preventing potential harm. Documenting the situation is essential for accurate record-keeping and accountability. Choice A is incorrect because keeping the information confidential would go against the ethical principle of veracity and could potentially harm the client. Choice C is incorrect as the decision about actions should involve healthcare professionals to ensure the client's safety and well-being, not solely the client. Choice D is incorrect because even if the client was not harmed immediately, incorrect medication dosages could still have long-term consequences, making it crucial to report the incident for proper evaluation and prevention.
Question 4 of 5
The head nurse in the ED has received word that a major fire in a high-rise office tower will result in many injured persons being brought to the hospital within the next few minutes. The head nurse tells the staff, 'You will need to assess for acute stress reactions as well as treating physical problems.' Which patient is exhibiting symptoms characteristic of acute stress reaction?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the female reporting still hearing her daughter's pleas for help is exhibiting symptoms characteristic of acute stress reaction, a common response to traumatic events like a major fire. This symptom indicates a re-experiencing of the traumatic event, known as intrusion, which is a key feature of acute stress reactions. This can include vivid memories, flashbacks, or hearing sounds related to the traumatic event. Choices A, C, and D do not align with acute stress reactions. A male with mood swings between mania and depression (Choice A) is more likely experiencing bipolar disorder. A male repeating 'I don't understand what's going on?' (Choice C) may indicate confusion or disorientation rather than acute stress reaction. A female rocking her young son and repeating 'it will be okay' (Choice D) may be demonstrating a coping mechanism rather than a symptom of acute stress reaction.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse in a mental health facility receives a change of shift report on four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to assess first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a client placed in restraints due to aggressive behavior poses an immediate safety concern that requires urgent assessment to prevent harm to the client or others. Assessing this client first ensures their immediate well-being. Choice B may indicate a potential health issue but does not pose an immediate safety threat, so it can be assessed after addressing the client in restraints. Choice C, a client receiving PRN medication for anxiety, may require assessment but does not present the same level of urgency as a client in restraints. Choice D, a client receiving ECT treatment, is important but not as urgent as the client in restraints. It can be assessed after addressing the immediate safety concern.