ATI RN
Mental Health ATI Proctored Exam 2024 Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which issues should a nurse address during the first interview with a patient with a psychiatric disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because during the first interview with a patient with a psychiatric disorder, it is crucial for the nurse to address relationship parameters to establish a therapeutic alliance, discuss the contract to clarify roles and expectations, ensure confidentiality to build trust, and explain termination to manage expectations. These aspects lay the foundation for a successful therapeutic relationship. A: Trust, congruence, attitudes, and boundaries - While trust and boundaries are important, they are part of relationship parameters addressed in choice C. Congruence and attitudes are more about the nurse's behavior than issues to address with the patient initially. B: Goals, resistance, unconscious motivations, and diversion - These are important aspects, but they are more relevant in later stages of therapy after a strong therapeutic alliance has been established. D: Transference, countertransference, intimacy, and developing resources - These are advanced concepts that may be addressed later in therapy as trust and rapport are established.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with a psychiatric disorder is considering joining a clubhouse with other patients who have mental disorders. The patient asks the nurse to explain what services the clubhouses provide. Which response by the nurse would be most accurate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because clubhouse programs are known for being primarily run by psychiatric patients with minimal assistance from mental health staff. This model emphasizes empowerment, peer support, and self-help. It promotes a sense of community and belonging among members, allowing individuals to take an active role in their recovery. Choice A is incorrect because clubhouses are not typically open 24 hours a day. They usually operate during standard business hours. Choice B is incorrect because clubhouses are not run entirely by psychiatric mental health nurses. While mental health staff may be present, the focus is on peer support and collaboration among members. Choice C is incorrect because the primary focus of clubhouses is not on providing ongoing intensive psychotherapy. Instead, they emphasize socialization, skill-building, and vocational support in a non-clinical setting.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 70-year-old psychiatric patient who has been prescribed a number of medications. When teaching the patient about the medications, which explanation would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. As individuals age, changes in liver functioning can lead to slower metabolism and clearance of medications from the body. This can result in medication levels accumulating in the system, potentially leading to toxicity. This explanation is important for the patient to understand the risks associated with their medications. Choice A is incorrect because the speed of stomach emptying does not necessarily impact medication effects. Choice B is incorrect as the entire GI system speeding up is not a typical age-related change and does not necessarily affect medication digestion. Choice D is incorrect as age-related circulation changes do not necessarily mean medications are delivered more quickly to specific body sites.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is counseling a family with two parents and two children, ages 8 and 10 years. The mother complains that the children are constantly fighting and have intense sibling rivalry. Which statement would be most appropriate when advising the parents about how to respond to the sibling rivalry?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Acknowledge individuality - By reacting to each child as unique individuals with their own talents and interests, parents can promote a sense of identity and reduce competition. Step 2: Encouraging positive interactions - Fostering cooperation rather than simply demanding it can help improve sibling relationships. Step 3: Address underlying issues - By focusing on individual needs and interests, parents can address root causes of rivalry rather than just surface behaviors. Step 4: Promoting healthy relationships - Encouraging children to appreciate each other's strengths and differences can lead to a more harmonious sibling dynamic. Summary: Choice A is correct as it addresses the core issues of sibling rivalry by promoting individuality and positive interactions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the underlying causes of rivalry, promote unhealthy dynamics, or offer effective solutions.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is working with a potentially violent patient in a community clinic. Which of the following would the nurse implement to minimize personal risk?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Staying close to a door. By staying close to a door, the nurse can have a quick exit strategy in case the situation escalates. This allows the nurse to maintain a safe distance from the potentially violent patient and increases the chances of a swift escape if needed. Using protective devices (A) can be helpful but may not always be accessible in a community clinic setting. Keeping the door closed for privacy (C) may limit escape routes and hinder quick exit. Wearing inexpensive jewelry to distract the patient (D) is not a safe or effective strategy in managing a potentially violent situation.