ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Assessment Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse in an urgent care clinic is caring for a school-age child who has several visible bruises. The child's parent states, 'My partner got fired today and came home angry. I don't think this will happen again.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: This response allows the nurse to gather more information in a non-confrontational manner, building rapport while assessing the child's safety. Agreeing without investigation (
A) is inappropriate, suggesting charges (
B) is premature, and calling the police (
C) requires a thorough assessment first.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is preparing to teach a client who has major depressive disorder and is scheduled to undergo electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: ECT is delivered through electrodes attached to the head to induce a brief seizure, which can alleviate severe depressive symptoms. ECT is not contraindicated for psychotic symptoms or suicidal ideation and is performed under general, not regional, anesthesia.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has a history of suicide attempts. Which of the following findings places the client at risk for another suicide attempt?
Correct Answer: B,C
Rationale: Depression and delusions, particularly those causing hopelessness, are significant suicide risk factors. Hallucinations, catatonia, and tinnitus are less directly associated without other factors.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has become violent and is threatening self-harm following a crisis. After ensuring enough staff are available, which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Acknowledging the client's emotions can de-escalate the situation, reducing immediate risks. Sedatives, debriefing, and restraints are secondary to verbal and emotional support.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who has delirium as a result of sepsis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B,C,E
Rationale: Rapid mood changes, hallucinations, and restlessness are common in delirium due to fluctuating cognitive status, sensory misperceptions, and agitation. Slow speech and unaltered consciousness are not typical.