ATI RN
Nclex Practice Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
While interviewing a patient, a nurse asks, 'What do you do when you get angry?' Which patient response would indicate to the nurse that the patient engages in anger suppression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because withdrawing and pouting about the problem indicates a passive-aggressive behavior associated with anger suppression. This response suggests that the patient avoids direct confrontation and attempts to mask their anger by withdrawing and internalizing their emotions. A: "I've been known to fly off the handle when I'm angry." - This response indicates explosive anger expression, not suppression. C: "I usually approach the person directly to talk about it." - This response suggests open communication, not suppression. D: "I try to discuss how I'm feeling about it with a close friend." - This response implies seeking support and emotional expression, not suppression.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The nurse has instructed the client about using the communication triad. The nurse determines that the client has understood this technique when he states which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. "I should start by stating my feelings as an 'I' statement" is correct because using 'I' statements helps the client express their feelings without blaming others. 2. By starting with their own feelings, the client takes ownership of their emotions and promotes effective communication. 3. This approach also helps in avoiding conflict and promotes empathy and understanding between the client and the other person. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because starting with describing the situation may lead to blaming or accusing the other person. - Option C is incorrect because starting with what the client wants to change may come across as demanding or aggressive. - Option D is incorrect because starting with what triggered the emotion may focus on external factors rather than the client's feelings.
Question 3 of 5
A client with a mental disorder is being discharged from the inpatient unit. During the client's stay in the hospital, the client eventually was able to get an adequate night's sleep even though the client had experienced chronic insomnia over the years. The client's spouse asks the nurse what the family can do in the client's home environment to promote healthy sleep. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate response by the nurse is C: "Remember to keep stimulating activities at a minimum before he goes to bed." This is the correct answer because engaging in stimulating activities before bedtime can disrupt sleep. It is essential to create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep patterns. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the importance of avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime or promoting a calming environment for sleep. Option A puts the responsibility solely on the client, missing the opportunity for the family to support healthy sleep habits. Option B suggests alcohol consumption before bed, which can negatively impact sleep quality. Option D recommends a spicy snack and tea before bed, which can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep. Ultimately, choice C is the best option as it focuses on creating a conducive environment for restful sleep.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse has used the Geriatric Depression Scale (short form) to assess an older adult client for depression. Which score would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is mildly depressed?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B (5). The Geriatric Depression Scale short form ranges from 0 to 15, with higher scores indicating more severe depression. A score of 5 falls within the mild depression range (0-9), suggesting the client is mildly depressed. Scores of 3 (A), 8 (C), and 13 (D) would indicate minimal or no depression (0-4), moderate depression (10-14), and severe depression (15), respectively. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate score to suspect mild depression in this case.
Question 5 of 5
When preparing the plan of care for a forensic client, a nurse determines not to investigate the details of the crime. Which of the following best supports the rationale for the nurse's decision?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because not investigating the crime details will help the nurse maintain unbiased attitudes towards the client and provide care without being influenced by personal opinions or judgments. By avoiding learning about the crime, the nurse can focus on the client's health needs and promote a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. A: This choice is incorrect because the nurse's personal feelings of fear should not dictate the decision-making process in providing care for the client. B: This choice is incorrect because protecting the nurse from anxiety is not the primary reason for not investigating the crime details. The focus should be on providing effective care for the client. D: This choice is incorrect because maintaining professional boundaries is important, but the primary reason for not investigating the crime details is to ensure impartiality and quality care for the client.