ATI RN
ATI 2019 Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 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 2 of 9
A hospitalized client with schizophrenia is receiving antipsychotic medications. While assessing the client, the nurse identifies signs and symptoms of a dystonic reaction. Which agent would the nurse expect to administer?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Dystonic reactions are extrapyramidal side effects commonly seen with antipsychotic medications. Diphenhydramine is a first-line treatment for dystonic reactions due to its anticholinergic properties. It helps block the excessive dopamine activity in the brain that causes these reactions. Propranolol (B) is a beta-blocker and not typically used for dystonic reactions. Risperidone (C) and Aripiprazole (D) are antipsychotic medications themselves and would not be used to treat dystonic reactions caused by antipsychotic medications.
Question 3 of 9
Malika agrees to try losing weight according to the nurse practitioner's outlined plan. Additional teaching is warranted when Malika states:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is correct because choosing gastric bypass over the outlined plan indicates a lack of commitment to the agreed weight loss plan. It suggests that Malika may not be fully engaged in following the recommendations provided by the nurse practitioner. This choice also implies a preference for a more invasive and potentially risky procedure over a more conservative approach. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not challenge or contradict the nurse practitioner's plan, indicating a willingness to address depression, engage in psychotherapy, and recognize potential benefits of weight loss on comorbid conditions.
Question 4 of 9
Which technique is most applicable to aversion therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Aversion therapy aims to reduce unwanted behaviors by associating them with negative consequences. Punishment, option A, is the most applicable technique as it involves applying an unpleasant stimulus to decrease the likelihood of a behavior occurring again. Desensitization (B) and positive reinforcement (D) aim to increase desired behaviors, which is not the goal of aversion therapy. Role modeling (C) involves observing and imitating others' behaviors, which is unrelated to aversion therapy's principles.
Question 5 of 9
The history of a child newly diagnosed with ADHD reveals that the child is experiencing sleeping difficulties. Which agent would the nurse most likely use?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Atomoxetine. Atomoxetine is the preferred agent for ADHD in children with sleeping difficulties as it does not typically affect sleep patterns. Methylphenidate (A) may worsen sleep issues due to its stimulant properties. Bupropion (C) can also cause insomnia. Clonidine (D) may help with sleep but is not the first-line choice for ADHD without comorbid conditions like tics or aggression.
Question 6 of 9
What behavior is a client with a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder demonstrating when they engage in binge drinking?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: maladaptive behavior. Clients with antisocial personality disorder often engage in maladaptive behaviors, such as binge drinking, to cope with their emotions and impulsivity. Binge drinking is a harmful coping mechanism that can lead to negative consequences, reflecting maladaptive behavior. Choice A (defiant personality) is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the behavior of binge drinking. Emotional regulation (Choice B) is also incorrect as individuals with antisocial personality disorder typically struggle with regulating their emotions, leading to impulsive behaviors like binge drinking. Self-determination (Choice D) is not the most appropriate answer as it does not directly address the maladaptive nature of binge drinking in individuals with antisocial personality disorder.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse who has worked with a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) when he was an inpatient on the psychiatric unit sees the client in the waiting room of the outpatient psychiatric clinic. The client motions to the nurse to come over so he can tell the nurse how things have been going since he was discharged. While talking with the client, the nurse determines that the client's therapy has been effective when the client states which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the client's behavior of going to the workshop to work on projects when his mother-in-law visits indicates a healthy coping mechanism to manage stress. This shows that the therapy has been effective in helping the client find a constructive way to deal with his anxiety triggers. Choice A indicates ongoing stress, which suggests therapy may not be effective. Choice C shows a habit that has not changed, indicating little progress. Choice D suggests the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism, which is not a healthy or sustainable way to manage anxiety.
Question 8 of 9
A client with signs and symptoms of double pneumonia states,"I will not agree to hospital admission unless my shaman is allowed to continue helping me." Which would be an appropriate nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Having the shaman meet the attending physician at the hospital is the most appropriate nursing intervention because it allows for collaboration between traditional beliefs and modern medical care. This approach respects the client's cultural and spiritual preferences while ensuring the client receives necessary medical treatment. It also helps establish a supportive and holistic care environment. Choice A is incorrect because denying the shaman access may lead to resistance from the client and hinder effective communication and trust-building. Choice C is inappropriate as it disregards the client's autonomy and may create conflict within the family. Choice D is incorrect as blaming the shaman for the client's condition is disrespectful and unprofessional.
Question 9 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.