HESI RN
RN HESI Mental Health Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with schizophrenia is demonstrating echolalia, which is becoming annoying to other clients on the unit. Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Escorting the client to a private area can help reduce annoyance to others without isolating or punishing the client. Isolation, sedation, or ignoring the behavior are less therapeutic.
Question 2 of 5
A female client who is a retired school teacher is admitted for a breast biopsy. After being told that the biopsy was positive for cancer, she becomes dependent and asks her family for help with activities of daily living that she is physically capable of performing. Which interpretation of this client's behavior by the nurse is likely to be most accurate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: This behavior is a regression to reduce anxiety, a common response to a cancer diagnosis. Encouraging dependency, setting rigid limits, or viewing it solely as grieving may not address the client's emotional needs.
Question 3 of 5
In conducting the initial assessment of a preoperative client, the nurse notes that the client's home medications include the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor phenelzine. Because of this client's medication history, which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to monitor?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: MAO inhibitors like phenelzine can cause hypertensive crisis, making blood pressure monitoring critical. Other parameters are less directly affected.
Question 4 of 5
A client who is an alcoholic receives a prescription for disulfiram 500 mg by mouth (PO) daily. Which instruction should the nurse provide to this client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Disulfiram should be taken 48 hours after the last drink to prevent adverse reactions and is typically taken in the morning for adherence. Alcohol must be completely avoided.
Question 5 of 5
An adolescent client is admitted to the postoperative unit following open reduction of a fractured femur which occurred when the client fell down the stairs at a party. The nurse notices needle marks on the client's arms. Which assessment findings should the nurse document related to suspected narcotic withdrawal?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Agitation, sweating, and abdominal cramps are common symptoms of narcotic withdrawal. Other options are associated with overdose or other conditions.