NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client states, 'I'm so stressed about my job, I can't sleep.' Which question should the nurse ask to assess the client's coping mechanisms?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Asking what the client does when stressed directly assesses their current coping mechanisms, guiding the nurse's plan. Medication use, work hours, or conflicts are relevant but less focused on coping strategies.
Question 2 of 5
After the nurse teaches a client with bipolar disorder about lithium therapy, which of the following client statements indicates the need for additional teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Doubling a missed lithium dose is dangerous and can lead to toxicity; additional teaching is needed.
Question 3 of 5
A client diagnosed with Major Depression and Substance Dependence is being admitted to the Dual Diagnosis Unit. In explaining the focus of this program, the nurse should tell the client:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The focus is simultaneous treatment of addiction and depression, as dual diagnosis programs address both conditions concurrently to improve outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
A 45-year-old client has been rehospitalized with a severe exacerbation of lupus that affects her central nervous system. After visiting with the client, her husband approaches the nurse. He says, 'My wife is scaring me. She says she does not want to live with this illness anymore. Our kids are grown and she feels useless as a mother and a wife.' Which of the following statements are the most important responses to the husband? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,C,E
Rationale: The nurse should assess for suicidality (
A) due to the wife's statements, acknowledge the husband's fear (
C) to build trust, and discuss supportive communication strategies (E) to empower him. Advising optimism (
B) may dismiss his feelings, and assuming she'll feel differently (
D) minimizes the current concern.
Question 5 of 5
A client with major depression is prescribed escitalopram (Lexapro) 10 mg daily. The client asks the nurse, 'How long will it take for me to feel better?' Which of the following responses by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Escitalopram, an SSRI, typically takes 2–4 weeks to show therapeutic effects, setting realistic expectations.