ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Assessment Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is administering an antidepressant medication to a client. The nurse should understand that which of the following is the major difference between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: TCAs can be lethal in overdose due to cardiotoxic effects, unlike SSRIs, which have a lower toxicity risk. SSRIs are not necessarily more effective, are less sedating, and TCAs have more cardiovascular effects.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is conducting an admission assessment for a client who is experiencing a manic episode of bipolar disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A,B,D
Rationale: Grandiosity, flight of ideas, and hyperactivity are hallmark behaviors of a manic episode in bipolar disorder, reflecting inflated self-esteem, rapid thought shifts, and increased energy. Splitting is associated with borderline personality disorder, and withdrawal is typical of depressive episodes, not mania.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is administering an antidepressant medication to a client. The nurse should understand that which of the following is the major difference between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: TCAs can be lethal in overdose due to cardiotoxic effects, unlike SSRIs, which have a lower toxicity risk. SSRIs are not necessarily more effective, are less sedating, and TCAs have more cardiovascular effects.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the medical records of a group of clients. For which of the following clients should the nurse recommend a referral for assertive community treatment (ACT)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: ACT is designed for clients with severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia with frequent hospitalizations, providing intensive community support. Other conditions require different interventions.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has just learned that their partner has died by suicide. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Assessing the client's understanding and emotional response to the suicide is the first priority to provide tailored support. Referrals, contacting family, or discussing guilt come after this initial assessment.