NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 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.
Question 2 of 5
The client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder is admitted to the unit after having attempted to cut her wrists with a pair of scissors. The client has several scars on both arms from self-mutilation and suicide gestures. A staff member states to the nurse, 'It's just attention that she wants, she's not going to kill herself.' The nurse should respond to the staff member by saying:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Saying 'Any attempt at self-harm is serious, and safety is a priority' corrects the staff's minimization, emphasizes the importance of safety, and reinforces a professional, non-judgmental approach.
Question 3 of 5
A client is admitted after the police found he had been sleeping in his car for three nights. The client says, 'My wife kicked me out and is divorcing me. It wasn't my fault I was fired from work. My wife and boss are plotting against me because I am smarter than they are.' He then pounds the table and says, 'I'm not staying here, and you can't stop me.' Which of the following should be included in the client's plan of care? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: B,C,E,F
Rationale: The client's plan should include anxiety and anger management (
B) to address his emotional outbursts, appropriate housing (
C) to resolve his homelessness, assault and escape precautions (E) due to his aggressive behavior and intent to leave, and suspiciousness and grandiosity issues (F) to address his paranoid and grandiose thoughts. Collateral information (
A) may be useful but is less immediate, and divorce counseling (
D) is premature without stabilizing his mental state.
Question 4 of 5
When obtaining a nursing history from parents who are suspected of abusing their child, which of the following characteristics about the parents should the nurse particularly assess?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Difficulty controlling aggression is a key risk factor for abuse and should be carefully assessed.
Question 5 of 5
After administering naloxone (Narcan), an opioid antagonist, the nurse should monitor the client carefully for which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Monitoring for respiratory depression is critical, as naloxone's effects may wear off before the opioid, potentially causing a recurrence of life-threatening respiratory issues.