NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with acute stress disorder has avoided feelings of anger toward her rapist and cannot verbally express them. The nurse suggests which of the following activities to assist the client with expressing her feelings?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Writing in a journal is suggested, as it provides a safe, private way to express and process suppressed anger, aiding emotional release.
Question 2 of 5
The client tells the nurse at the outpatient clinic that she doesn't need to attend groups because she's 'not a regular like these other people here.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Saying 'You say you're not a regular here, but you're experiencing what others are experiencing' validates the client's feelings while gently challenging her denial, encouraging engagement in treatment.
Question 3 of 5
A client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia is still withdrawn, unkempt, and unmotivated to get out of bed. A mental health aide asks the nurse why he is this way after being on fluphenazine (Prolixin) 10 mg for 7 days. The nurse should tell the health aide:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Fluphenazine, a typical antipsychotic, is more effective for positive symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusions) than negative symptoms (e.g., withdrawal, lack of motivation), which explains the client's persistent symptoms.
Question 4 of 5
When developing a teaching plan for a client about the medications prescribed for depression, which of the following components is most important for the nurse to include?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Educating about side effects and when to report them ensures safety and adherence.
Question 5 of 5
A client with major depression and psychotic features is admitted involuntarily to the hospital. He will not eat because his 'bowels have turned to jelly,' which the client states is punishment for his wickedness. The client requests to leave the hospital. The nurse denies the request because commitment papers have been initiated by the physician. Which of the following should the nurse identify as a criterion for the client to be legally committable?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Risk of harm to self or others is a primary criterion for involuntary commitment to ensure safety.