NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with depression and suicidal ideation voices feelings of self-doubt and powerlessness and is very dependent on the nurse for most aspects of her care. According to Erikson's stages of growth and development, the nurse determines the client to be manifesting problems in which of the following stages?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Self-doubt and dependence reflect struggles with autonomy versus shame/doubt.
Question 2 of 5
When a client is about to lose control, the extra staff commonly stay at a distance from the client unless asked to move closer by the nurse who is talking to the client. Which of the following best explains the primary rationale for staying at a distance initially?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Staying at a distance prevents the client from feeling threatened, as they may perceive others as closer in a heightened state of agitation, reducing the risk of escalation. The other options are less directly related to the client's perception of threat.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a 16-year-old client with suspected bulimia nervosa. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,B,D,E
Rationale: Bulimia is characterized by normal weight, tooth enamel erosion from vomiting, calluses on knuckles from purging, and often excessive exercise to control weight. Fasting is more typical of anorexia.
Question 4 of 5
A client with paranoid schizophrenia believes food is contaminated. Which intervention is most effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Serving food in sealed containers addresses the delusion practically, increasing the likelihood of eating.
Question 5 of 5
A client is sitting in the corner of the dayroom cocking his head to one side as if he hears something, but no one is nearby. The nurse suspects he is having auditory hallucinations. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Directly asking about what the client is hearing addresses the suspected auditory hallucinations, allowing the nurse to assess the content and severity of the symptom.