ATI RN
Behavioral Health Nurse Certification Questions
Question 1 of 5
While talking with a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder, a nurse notices the patient is unable to maintain eye contact. The patient's chin lowers to the chest. The patient looks at the floor. Which aspect of communication has the nurse assessed?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nonverbal communication. In this scenario, the patient's lack of eye contact, lowered chin, and looking at the floor all indicate nonverbal cues. Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in conveying feelings and emotions. The patient's body language suggests feelings of sadness, low self-esteem, or discomfort, which are common in major depressive disorder. Nonverbal communication is an essential aspect of interpersonal communication and can provide valuable insights into a person's emotional state. Summary: B: A message filter - Incorrect. A message filter refers to factors that distort or block communication, such as noise or distractions. The patient's behavior does not represent filtering of messages. C: A cultural barrier - Incorrect. Cultural barriers involve differences in norms, values, or communication styles. The patient's nonverbal cues are more likely related to their emotional state rather than cultural factors. D: Social skills - Incorrect. Social skills involve the ability to interact effectively with others. The
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder during the manic phase. The patient is exhibiting rapid speech, impulsivity, and racing thoughts. What is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Provide a quiet and low-stimulation environment. During the manic phase of bipolar disorder, patients often experience heightened agitation and sensory overload. Creating a calm and low-stimulation environment can help reduce the intensity of their symptoms and promote relaxation. This intervention is crucial to prevent exacerbation of manic behaviors and potential harm to the patient or others. Summary: - Choice B: Encouraging social activities may further stimulate the patient, worsening manic symptoms. - Choice C: While medication is important, creating a calming environment is the immediate priority. - Choice D: Firm limits may provoke resistance and escalate the situation, rather than de-escalate it.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a patient diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. The patient reports feeling nervous and anxious most of the time. Which of the following is the priority nursing diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anxiety. Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and persistent worry and anxiety. Addressing the patient's anxiety is the priority to promote comfort and well-being. Choice A (Risk for injury) is not the priority because there is no indication of immediate physical harm. Choice C (Ineffective coping) may be relevant but addressing the anxiety itself takes precedence. Choice D (Imbalanced nutrition) is not the priority as it does not address the patient's immediate emotional distress.
Question 4 of 5
A new staff nurse completes an orientation to the psychiatric unit. This nurse will expect to ask an advanced practice nurse to perform which action for patients?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because only advanced practice nurses, such as psychiatric nurse practitioners, have the authority to prescribe psychotropic medications. This action falls under their scope of practice and requires advanced education and training in pharmacology and mental health. Asking an advanced practice nurse to prescribe psychotropic medication ensures that patients receive appropriate and safe pharmacological interventions. A: Mental health assessment interviews can be performed by staff nurses, not limited to advanced practice nurses. C: Establishing therapeutic relationships is a fundamental nursing skill that all nurses, including staff nurses, should possess. D: Individualizing nursing care plans is a responsibility of all nurses and does not specifically require involvement of advanced practice nurses.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is having difficulty making a decision. The nurse has mixed feelings about whether to provide advice. Which principle usually applies? Giving advice
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: giving advice is rarely helpful. Providing unsolicited advice can undermine the patient's autonomy and decision-making process. It is important for the nurse to support the patient in exploring their options and making their own informed decisions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because giving advice does not necessarily foster independence, lift the burden of personal decision-making, or help the patient develop feelings of personal adequacy. Rather, it can limit the patient's ability to think critically and make their own choices.