HESI RN
RN HESI Mental Health Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with borderline personality disorder tells the nurse, 'You are the best nurse on the unit! The other nurses don't care about me the way you do.' Which response should the nurse provide to this client?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: This response acknowledges the client's feelings, reinforces the presence of the nursing team, and emphasizes the collective goal of helping the client get better. Other responses may invalidate feelings, deflect, or question perceptions without providing reassurance.
Question 2 of 5
Following the visit, what are appropriate actions for the nurse? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B,C,E
Rationale: Providing referrals for mental health services, following up with the client, and documenting verbatim statements about abuse are appropriate actions to support the client and ensure accurate records. Mailing items without consent or calling the police without an immediate threat are less appropriate.
Question 3 of 5
An antidepressant medication is prescribed for a client who reports sleeping only four hours in the past two days and a weight loss of nine pounds within the last month. Which client goal is most important to achieve within the first three days of treatment?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Improving sleep to at least six hours a night addresses the client's reported insomnia and supports their physical well-being, which is critical in the initial treatment phase. Understanding medication, describing hospitalization reasons, or meeting a dietitian are important but secondary to addressing sleep.
Question 4 of 5
A client with schizophrenia returns to the clinic two weeks after receiving a prescription for haloperidol. To assess for neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), which information is most important for the nurse to obtain during this visit?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, are crucial in assessing for NMS as it typically presents with changes in these parameters. Other options are less specific to NMS.
Question 5 of 5
A client is admitted to the mental health unit and sits in the corner of the day room. When the nurse begins the admission assessment interview, the client is guarded, suspicious, and resists talking. Which action should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Attempting to ask the client simple questions allows for a non-threatening approach and might gradually build rapport, encouraging engagement. Involving another nurse, documenting behavior, or postponing the interview do not address the immediate need for assessment.