ATI RN
ATI 2019 Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which statement by a patient would lead the nurse to suspect unsuccessful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because depending on frequent praise from others to feel good about oneself indicates a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem, which are key components of successful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy according to Erikson's theory. This statement suggests an inability to develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance, which are crucial in the infancy stage. Choice A is incorrect because preferring to work alone rather than on a team may indicate a preference for autonomy, which is a positive trait related to the successful completion of the task of autonomy vs. shame and doubt in infancy. Choice B is incorrect because not allowing others to truly get to know oneself could indicate introversion or privacy preferences, which may not necessarily suggest unsuccessful completion of the infancy developmental task. Choice D is incorrect because needing to do things several times before getting them right may indicate a learning style or perfectionism rather than a sign of unsuccessful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy.
Question 2 of 9
A client diagnosed with complex somatic symptom disorder and depression is prescribed medication therapy to treat both the pain and the symptoms of depression. When teaching the client about the medication, which of the following would the nurse emphasize?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Avoidance of foods that contain aged cheese. Aged cheese contains tyramine, which can interact with certain medications used to treat depression, such as MAOIs. This interaction can lead to a dangerous increase in blood pressure known as a hypertensive crisis. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to avoid foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheese, to prevent this potentially life-threatening reaction. Signing a no-suicide contract (choice A) is important but not directly related to medication teaching. Using sunscreen (choice C) and limiting water intake (choice D) are not relevant considerations for this medication regimen.
Question 3 of 9
While caring for a family, the nurse determines that first-order changes have occurred with which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because first-order changes refer to small, incremental adjustments within the system. In this scenario, the parent returning to work while the children are all in school signifies a gradual shift in the family dynamic. The other choices involve significant and more disruptive changes like a daughter leaving for college, a son getting married and moving out, and the death of a family member, which are considered second-order changes that lead to more substantial shifts in the family system.
Question 4 of 9
When alprazolam is prescribed for a patient who experiences acute anxiety, health teaching should include instructions to
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: avoid alcoholic beverages. This is because alprazolam is a central nervous system depressant, and alcohol also has depressant effects. Combining the two can potentiate sedation and respiratory depression. Reporting drowsiness (A) is important but not specific to alprazolam. Eating a tyramine-free diet (B) is relevant for certain medications like MAOIs, not alprazolam. Adjusting dose and frequency based on anxiety level (D) is not recommended as it can lead to misuse or dependence.
Question 5 of 9
Based on assessment data, the nurse formulates the nursing diagnosis for a patient as sleep pattern disturbance. After teaching the patient how to relax before bedtime, the nurse determines that the teaching was effective by which outcome?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because feeling rested upon awakening indicates improved sleep quality, reflecting effective teaching on relaxation techniques. Choice A does not directly measure the effectiveness of the teaching intervention. Choice C indicates reliance on medication rather than improved sleep hygiene. Choice D, sleeping for short intervals, does not necessarily signify improved sleep quality.
Question 6 of 9
Forensic nursing combines scientific knowledge and inquiry in an effort to serve:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because forensic nursing serves both victims and perpetrators of crime. Forensic nurses provide care, collect evidence, and testify in legal proceedings for all individuals involved in a crime. Choice A is incorrect because forensic nursing is not exclusive to victims. Choice B is incorrect as it does not encompass the holistic approach of forensic nursing. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses solely on the families of crime victims, rather than the individuals directly involved.
Question 7 of 9
A psychiatric-mental health nurse is teaching a class about social factors associated with mental illness at a community health center. When describing the influence of poverty and effects of the downward economic spiral on mental health, which population would the nurse identify as being the most at risk?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Homeless individuals. Homeless individuals are the most at risk due to the severe impact of poverty and the downward economic spiral on their mental health. Homelessness often results from poverty, leading to chronic stress, lack of access to basic needs, social isolation, and increased vulnerability to mental health issues. Homeless individuals face multiple stressors that can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or lead to the development of new ones. Older adults (A) may face financial challenges but are not necessarily homeless. Individuals with physical disabilities (B) may encounter economic difficulties but are not automatically homeless. Single-parent families (C) may struggle financially, but homelessness is not exclusive to this group.
Question 8 of 9
Which statement shows a nurse has empathy for a patient who made a suicide attempt?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it directly acknowledges the patient's emotions and perspective without judgment. It shows understanding and validation of the patient's feelings, indicating empathy. Choice B focuses on the nurse's feelings, not the patient's. Choice C offers a solution without addressing the patient's emotional state. Choice D minimizes the seriousness of the patient's situation and lacks empathy. Overall, choice A demonstrates the most empathetic response by recognizing and empathizing with the patient's emotional distress.
Question 9 of 9
Which statement by a patient would lead the nurse to suspect unsuccessful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because depending on frequent praise from others to feel good about oneself indicates a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem, which are key components of successful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy according to Erikson's theory. This statement suggests an inability to develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance, which are crucial in the infancy stage. Choice A is incorrect because preferring to work alone rather than on a team may indicate a preference for autonomy, which is a positive trait related to the successful completion of the task of autonomy vs. shame and doubt in infancy. Choice B is incorrect because not allowing others to truly get to know oneself could indicate introversion or privacy preferences, which may not necessarily suggest unsuccessful completion of the infancy developmental task. Choice D is incorrect because needing to do things several times before getting them right may indicate a learning style or perfectionism rather than a sign of unsuccessful completion of the psychosocial developmental task of infancy.