ATI RN
Mental Health Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 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 2 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 3 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.
Question 4 of 5
A patient who was responding to auditory hallucinations earlier in the morning now approaches the nurse shaking a fist and shouts, 'Back off!' and then goes to the dayroom. While following the patient into the dayroom, the nurse should
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, as it prioritizes safety by ensuring physical space between the nurse and the patient, reducing the risk of potential harm. By creating distance, the nurse can prevent escalation and maintain a safe environment for both parties. This approach allows for de-escalation and assessment of the situation without provoking further agitation. Choice B is incorrect as it may trap the patient and limit their options, potentially increasing their distress. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining a fixed distance may not be sufficient if the patient becomes physically aggressive. Choice D is incorrect as immediately engaging in conversation may exacerbate the situation and lead to further agitation.
Question 5 of 5
Family members describe the patient as 'a difficult person who finds fault with others.' The patient verbally abuses nurses for their poor care. The most likely explanation lies in
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: a personality style that externalizes problems. This is likely the most accurate explanation because the patient's behavior of finding fault with others and verbally abusing nurses suggests a tendency to blame external factors for their own problems, rather than taking responsibility. This is characteristic of a personality style that externalizes problems, where individuals attribute their issues to others or external circumstances. Poor childrearing (choice A) may contribute, but it doesn't directly address the behavior described. Automatic thinking and cognitive distortions (choice B) are related to cognitive processes, not personality styles. Delusions of harm (choice D) are not mentioned in the scenario.