ATI RN
psychiatric 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: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication refers to the transmission of messages or information without the use of words. In the context of the patient with major depressive disorder, the inability to maintain eye contact, lowering the chin to the chest, and looking at the floor are all nonverbal cues that indicate the patient's emotional state and level of engagement. Option B) A message filter is incorrect because it does not relate to the observed behaviors of the patient. A message filter typically refers to factors that interfere with the accurate transmission or reception of a message, such as noise or distractions. Option C) A cultural barrier is also incorrect in this context because the observed behaviors are more indicative of emotional distress rather than a cultural difference. Cultural barriers typically involve differences in beliefs, values, or communication styles between individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Option D) Social skills is not the correct answer as well because the observed behaviors are not related to the patient's ability to interact or engage with others in a social setting. Social skills encompass a broader range of abilities related to communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building. Understanding nonverbal communication cues is essential for healthcare providers, especially in psychiatric nursing, as these cues can provide valuable insights into a patient's emotional state, needs, and responses to treatment. By recognizing and interpreting nonverbal cues, nurses can enhance their communication with patients, build rapport, and provide more effective care.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who had been experiencing significant stress learned to use progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises. When the patient returns to the clinic 2 weeks later, which finding most clearly shows the patient is coping more effectively with stress?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Objective measures tend to be the most reliable means of gauging progress. In this case, the patient's elevated blood pressure, an indication of the body's physiological response to stress, has diminished. The patient's report regarding activity level is subjective; sitting quietly could reflect depression rather than improvement. Appetite, mood, and energy levels are also subjective reports that do not necessarily reflect physiological changes from stress and may not reflect improved coping with stress. The patient's weight change could be a positive or negative indicator; the blood pressure change is the best answer.
Question 3 of 5
A patient undergoing diagnostic tests says, 'Nothing is wrong with me except a stubborn chest cold.' The spouse reports the patient smokes, coughs daily, lost 15 pounds, and is easily fatigued. Which defense mechanism is the patient using?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Denial is an unconscious blocking of threatening or painful information or feelings. Regression involves using behaviors appropriate at an earlier stage of psychosexual development. Displacement shifts feelings to a more neutral person or object. Projection attributes one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to another.
Question 4 of 5
A person who feels unattractive repeatedly says, 'Although I'm not beautiful, I am smart.' This is an example of
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Compensation is an unconscious process that allows us to make up for deficits in one area by excelling in another area to raise self-esteem. Repression unconsciously puts an idea, event, or feeling out of awareness. Identification is an unconscious mechanism calling for imitation of mannerisms or behaviors of another. Devaluation occurs when the individual attributes negative qualities to self or others.
Question 5 of 5
A patient diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder has this nursing diagnosis: Anxiety related to _____ as evidenced by inability to control compulsive cleaning. Which phrase correctly completes the etiological portion of the diagnosis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct completion to the etiological portion of the nursing diagnosis for a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder is Option C: persistent thoughts about bacteria, germs, and dirt. This is the most appropriate choice because it directly relates to the core feature of OCD, which is the presence of obsessions (persistent, intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared outcome). Option A (feelings of responsibility for the health of family members) may be a common feature in individuals with high levels of anxiety, but it does not specifically address the nature of OCD symptoms seen in this patient. Option B (approval-seeking behavior from friends and family) is more characteristic of dependent personality traits rather than OCD. Option D (needs to avoid interactions with others) is more indicative of social anxiety disorder rather than OCD. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind selecting the correct etiological factor in a nursing diagnosis for a patient with OCD is crucial for providing effective care. By recognizing the key symptoms and triggers associated with OCD, nurses can tailor interventions to help patients manage their anxiety and compulsive behaviors effectively. This knowledge aids in promoting therapeutic relationships and fostering positive outcomes in psychiatric nursing practice.