ATI RN
Practice Nclex Questions Mental Health Questions
Question 1 of 9
While reviewing the medical record of a client with moderate dementia of the Alzheimer type, the nurse notes that the client has been receiving memantine. The nurse identifies this drug as which type?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: NMDA receptor antagonist. Memantine is a medication used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by blocking the NMDA receptors, which helps regulate glutamate activity in the brain. This action can improve cognitive function in individuals with dementia. Choice A (Atypical antipsychotic) is incorrect because memantine is not classified as an antipsychotic medication. Choice B (Cholinesterase inhibitor) is incorrect because while cholinesterase inhibitors are also used in treating Alzheimer's disease, memantine works through a different mechanism by targeting NMDA receptors. Choice D (Benzodiazepine) is incorrect because benzodiazepines are not typically used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. The nurse notes that the client has had numerous episodes involving irritability, aggressiveness, and impulsivity and has exhibited callousness toward others. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis would the nurse most likely identify as a priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Risk for Other-Directed Violence. This diagnosis is the priority because individuals with antisocial personality disorder often display behaviors such as irritability, aggressiveness, and callousness towards others. This places them at a higher risk for exhibiting violent behaviors directed towards others. It is crucial for the nurse to prioritize assessing and managing this risk to ensure the safety of both the client and others. Summary of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Risk for Self-Injury - Individuals with antisocial personality disorder are more likely to harm others rather than themselves. C: Risk for Suicide - Antisocial personality disorder is not typically associated with an increased risk for suicide. D: Risk for Self-Directed Violence - Individuals with antisocial personality disorder are more inclined towards externalizing behaviors rather than self-directed violence.
Question 3 of 9
When integrating the Neuman systems model while caring for a patient with a mood disorder, the nurse would focus on which of the following about the patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Neuman Systems Model focuses on stressors affecting the patient. 2. Stressors are key in understanding the patient's response to the environment. 3. In a mood disorder, stressors can exacerbate symptoms. 4. By focusing on stressors, the nurse can identify triggers and provide appropriate interventions. Summary of incorrect choices: A: Behaviors - Important, but not the primary focus in Neuman Systems Model. B: Relationships - Relevant, but not the central aspect in this context. C: Self-care activities - Relevant, but not the primary focus when considering a patient's mood disorder.
Question 4 of 9
A community mental health nurse has worked for months to establish a relationship with a delusional, suspicious patient. The patient recently lost employment and could no longer afford prescribed medications. The patient says, "Only a traitor would make me go to the hospital." Select the nurse's best initial intervention.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates respect for the patient's autonomy and builds trust in the nurse-patient relationship. By contacting resources to provide medications without charge, the nurse addresses the patient's financial constraint while honoring their wishes to avoid the hospital. This intervention promotes continuity of care and supports the patient's well-being. Option B is incorrect because it does not address the patient's immediate need for medications and may not align with the patient's preferences. Option C is inappropriate as hospitalization should be a last resort and may not be necessary in this case. Option D is not the best initial intervention as it does not directly address the patient's concerns about being perceived as a traitor.
Question 5 of 9
Reviewing prescription medications in the discharge instructions for a patient with a diagnosis of major depression, the nurse would caution the patient about which over-the-counter supplement(s)? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: St. John's wort. St. John's wort can interact with antidepressant medications, leading to serotonin syndrome or decreasing the effectiveness of the antidepressants. It is important for the nurse to caution the patient about potential interactions. Fish oil (A), SAMe (B), and melatonin (D) do not have significant interactions with antidepressant medications, making them safe options for patients with major depression.
Question 6 of 9
What statement best describes the development of user groups in the digital age?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because user groups in the digital age have indeed evolved to utilize digital platforms for broader reach and acquiring digital health information. This evolution allows users to connect with a wider audience and access a vast amount of health-related information online. User groups are no longer limited by geographic boundaries and can provide support and resources to individuals regardless of their location. Choice A is incorrect because user groups have not decreased in number but rather expanded due to technology. Choice B is incorrect as user groups can serve various purposes, including health-care support. Choice D is incorrect as user groups continue to play a significant role in providing support and information to individuals seeking help in the digital age.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse is developing a plan of care for a client with chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis. The client's pain has been severe and prolonged. Which of the following would the nurse identify as a priority assessment?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Depression. Depression is a common comorbidity with chronic pain and can exacerbate the client's overall condition. The nurse should prioritize assessing for depression as it can impact the client's pain management, adherence to treatment, and overall quality of life. Grief, panic disorder, and bulimia are important considerations but may not directly impact the client's chronic pain management as significantly as depression. It is crucial for the nurse to address the client's mental health needs to provide holistic care and improve outcomes.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is planning to provide teaching to a young adult client with insomnia. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C - Keep bedroom cool at night. This is important because a cool environment promotes better sleep by helping the body lower its core temperature, which is essential for falling and staying asleep. Choice A is incorrect as exercising close to bedtime can actually stimulate the body and make it harder to fall asleep. Choice B is incorrect as taking a nap during the day can interfere with the ability to fall asleep at night. Choice D is incorrect as consuming a high carbohydrate snack at bedtime may disrupt sleep due to potential indigestion or fluctuations in blood sugar levels. In summary, maintaining a cool bedroom temperature is crucial for promoting quality sleep in individuals with insomnia.
Question 9 of 9
Opioid use disorder is characterized by:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tolerance. Opioid use disorder is characterized by the need for increased amounts of opioids to achieve the desired effect over time, which is known as tolerance. This occurs due to physiological changes in the body. Choices A and B are incorrect as withdrawal symptoms, including pupillary constriction, sedation, and insomnia, are typically seen in opioid use disorder. Choice D is incorrect as individuals with opioid use disorder often require larger amounts of the drug to achieve the same high due to tolerance, not smaller amounts.