ATI RN
ATI RN Mental Custom Health Next Gen Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A female patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been prescribed a first-generation antipsychotic medication. What information should the nurse provide to the patient regarding her signs and symptoms?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: She should experience a reduction in hallucinations. First-generation antipsychotic medications are primarily used to target positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations. These medications work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which can help reduce hallucinations. Providing this information to the patient is crucial for managing expectations and understanding the potential benefits of the prescribed medication.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because first-generation antipsychotics do not specifically address memory problems, depressive episodes, or social interactions. While some side effects of the medication may impact these areas, the primary focus is on reducing hallucinations and other positive symptoms of schizophrenia. It is important for the nurse to provide accurate information to the patient to ensure effective treatment and management of their condition.
Question 2 of 5
Which characteristic presents the greatest risk for injury to others by the patient diagnosed with schizophrenia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Paranoia. Paranoia in schizophrenia poses the greatest risk for injury to others as it can lead to aggressive behaviors driven by fear and mistrust. Individuals experiencing paranoia may perceive others as threats and act out violently in self-defense. Pressured speech (choice
B) and negative symptoms (choice
C) are not typically associated with direct physical harm to others. Depersonalization (choice
A) refers to a sense of detachment from oneself and does not directly result in harm to others. In summary, paranoia is the most concerning characteristic in terms of potential harm to others in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Question 3 of 5
Gilbert, age 19, is described by his parents as a 'moody child' with an onset of odd behavior about at age 14, which caused Gilbert to suffer academically and socially. Gilbert has lost the ability to complete household chores, is reluctant to leave the house, and is obsessed with the locks on the windows and doors. Due to Gilbert’s early and slow onset of what is now recognized as schizophrenia, his prognosis is considered:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D:
To have a less positive outcome. Gilbert's symptoms of odd behavior, academic decline, social withdrawal, inability to perform household chores, and obsession with locks are indicative of schizophrenia, a severe and chronic mental disorder. Onset at a young age and slow progression are associated with a poorer prognosis. Medication can help manage symptoms but may not completely alleviate them. Psychosocial interventions may offer some support but are unlikely to significantly alter the course of the illness. The relapse stage implies some improvement followed by worsening, which is not described in Gilbert's case.
Therefore, option D is the most appropriate as it reflects the challenging nature of schizophrenia in young individuals like Gilbert.
Question 4 of 5
Which therapeutic communication statement might a psychiatric-mental health registered nurse use when a patient’s nursing diagnosis is altered thought processes?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it demonstrates active listening and encourages the patient to express their experiences. By asking "You say you hear voices, what are they telling you?" the nurse shows empathy, validation, and a non-judgmental attitude towards the patient's altered thought processes. This statement helps the patient feel heard and understood, fostering a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship.
Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's experience and does not acknowledge their reality.
Choice B is incorrect as it commands the patient to stop listening to the voices without addressing the underlying issues.
Choice D is incorrect because it suggests the patient has control over the voices, which may not be the case.
Question 5 of 5
When patients diagnosed with schizophrenia suffer from anosognosia, they often refuse medication, believing that:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: They are not actually ill. Anosognosia is a symptom of schizophrenia where patients lack awareness of their illness. This leads them to deny their condition and refuse treatment.
Choice A is incorrect as it assumes patients are aware of the medication's effectiveness.
Choice B is incorrect as it introduces a paranoid belief not related to anosognosia.
Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on physical side effects, not denial of illness.