NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with a long history of paranoid schizophrenia is readmitted voluntarily after missing his last two injections of haloperidol decanoate (Haldol Decanoate). He reports, 'I'm not sleeping much and my friend says I smell from not showering. God is telling me to protect myself from others. My parents are sick and tired of me and my illness. They wish I were dead.' Which of the following admission notes by the nurse contains assumptions and potentially false accusations? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,C,E
Rationale: The notes in A, C, and E make assumptions: A assumes noncompliance caused all symptoms and misinterprets the parents' intentions; C assumes a strained relationship and parental wishes without evidence; E falsely states medication was missed for 2 days and assumes parental abuse without substantiation.
Question 2 of 5
A client has been in the critical care unit for 3 days following a severe myocardial infarction. Although he is medically stable, he has begun to have fluctuating episodes of consciousness, illogical thinking, and anxiety. He is picking at the air to 'catch these baby angels flying around my head.' While waiting for medical and psychiatric results, the nurse must intervene with the client's needs. Which of the following needs have the highest priority? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,B,D
Rationale: Reducing stimuli (
A) minimizes confusion, avoiding challenges to hallucinations (
B) prevents agitation, and gently presenting reality (
D) supports orientation without confrontation. Assuming dementia (E) is premature, and orienting to medical condition (
C) may overwhelm the client.
Question 3 of 5
The client diagnosed with conversion disorder has a paralyzed arm. A staff member states, 'I would just tell the client her arm is paralyzed because she had an affair and neglected her baby's care to the point where the baby had to be hospitalized for dehydration.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Saying 'Pushing insight will increase anxiety' is best, as it recognizes that confrontation may worsen symptoms in conversion disorder, advocating for a supportive approach.
Question 4 of 5
A client with schizophrenia reports sedation from medication. What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Discussing timing with the physician ensures safe adjustments to address sedation while maintaining treatment.
Question 5 of 5
A client walks into the clinic and tells the nurse she has run out of money for crack, has crashed, and wants something to help her feel better. Which of the following is most important for the nurse to assess?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Assessing suicidal ideation is most important, as a crash after crack use can lead to severe depression and increased suicide risk, requiring immediate attention.