ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Assessment Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 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 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who reports using cocaine 1 hour ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Cocaine, a stimulant, can cause hyperthermia or fever due to increased metabolic activity. It suppresses appetite (not polyphagia), causes tachycardia (not bradycardia), and does not typically cause oliguria.
Question 3 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 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being physically assaulted. The client is unable to recall any details of the event. Which of the following defense mechanisms should the nurse recognize that the client is displaying?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Dissociation involves a disconnection from traumatic memories, common in PTSD, where the mind separates from the distressing experience. Rationalization, undoing, and reaction formation involve different cognitive processes.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child who has autism spectrum disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: A,C,D
Rationale: Lack of eye contact, spinning toys, and withdrawal from physical contact are common in autism spectrum disorder due to social and sensory issues. Inability to play quietly is not specific, and 'voicing in clothes' is unclear.