ATI RN
Psychotropic Medication Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which part of the Brian activates fear?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Amygdala. The amygdala is the key brain structure responsible for processing emotions, including fear. It plays a crucial role in the fear response by interpreting and reacting to potential threats. The striatum (A) is involved in reward and movement. The limbic system (C) includes the amygdala but is a broader network of brain structures related to emotions and memory. The basal ganglia (D) is primarily responsible for motor control and procedural learning. Thus, the amygdala specifically processes fear, making it the correct choice in this context.
Question 2 of 5
The PHMNP recognizes which of the following medication as an atypical antipsychotic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: Aripiprazole is recognized as an atypical antipsychotic by the PHMNP due to its unique mechanism of action as a partial dopamine D2 receptor agonist. This provides both dopamine modulation and stabilization, making it effective for treating a range of psychiatric disorders. In contrast, chlorpromazine (A) is a typical antipsychotic, haloperidol (C) is a first-generation antipsychotic, and mesoridazine (D) is a withdrawn antipsychotic due to safety concerns. Therefore, aripiprazole (B) stands out as the correct choice for being an atypical antipsychotic with a distinct mechanism of action.
Question 3 of 5
Morgan is a third-year nursing student in her psychiatric clinical rotation. She is assigned to an 80-year-old widow admitted for major depressive disorder. The patient describes many losses and sadness. Morgan becomes teary and says meaningfully, 'I am so sorry for you.' Morgan's instructor overhears the conversation and says, 'I understand that getting tearful is a human response. Yet, sympathy isn't helpful in this field:' The instructor urges Morgan to focus on:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Using empathy to demonstrate respect and validation of the patient's feelings. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another, without adopting them as your own. In this situation, Morgan should acknowledge the patient's emotions without becoming emotionally overwhelmed herself. Empathy helps build a therapeutic relationship, showing the patient that their feelings are valid and respected. A: Adopting the patient's sorrow as your own is not recommended as it can lead to burnout and boundary issues. B: Maintaining pure objectivity is important in healthcare, but complete detachment may hinder the therapeutic relationship. D: Using touch may not be appropriate without understanding the patient's comfort level and boundaries. Touch should be used cautiously in psychiatric settings.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient who reports feelings of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating. The nurse recognizes that these symptoms are commonly associated with:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (Major depressive disorder). Symptoms of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating are hallmark features of major depressive disorder. Worthlessness is a common symptom of low self-esteem and negative self-perception associated with depression. Difficulty concentrating is a cognitive symptom often seen in depression due to impaired focus and attention. Schizophrenia (A) is characterized by hallucinations and delusions. Bipolar disorder (C) involves mood swings between mania and depression. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Therefore, the symptoms described align most closely with major depressive disorder.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is working with a patient who has a history of substance abuse. Which goal would be most appropriate for the nurse to focus on during the initial phase of care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential in the initial phase of care for a patient with a history of substance abuse. This goal focuses on providing the patient with alternative ways to manage stress and triggers, which can help prevent relapse. It also empowers the patient to address underlying issues contributing to substance abuse. Choice B is incorrect because focusing solely on understanding long-term effects may not address the immediate needs of the patient. Choice C is incorrect as complete abstinence is a long-term goal and may not be realistic in the initial phase. Choice D is incorrect as promoting self-care is important but may not address the specific needs related to substance abuse.