ATI RN
ATI Psychiatric Exam 1 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has a serious mental illness and has developed tardive dyskinesia from anti-psychotic medication use. Which of the following adverse effects from anti-psychotic medication use would be expected for the client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, particularly around the mouth (e.g., lip smacking, tongue protrusion), as a side effect of long-term antipsychotic use. Hallucinations/delusions are symptoms of the treated condition, nausea/vomiting are early side effects, and seizures/tremors are unrelated to tardive dyskinesia.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has been admitted for a psychiatric evaluation after displaying aggressive behavior towards their partner and 2-year-old child. Which of the following client statements should the nurse identify as potentially contributing to aggression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Childhood physical abuse, such as being hit by a parent, is a significant risk factor for developing aggressive behaviors in adulthood, as it can model violence as a coping mechanism. The other statements, involving a parent’s abuse history, occasional alcohol use, or positive childhood experiences, are less directly linked to the client’s current aggression.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted for alcohol detoxification. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect to observe that indicate the client is experiencing alcohol withdrawal?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Alcohol withdrawal is characterized by symptoms such as increased heart rate (tachycardia), sweating, tremors, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and agitation. These symptoms result from the autonomic nervous system’s response to the sudden cessation of alcohol. Decreased blood pressure, constipation, pupil constriction, and bone/muscle aches are more associated with other conditions, such as opioid withdrawal, and are not typical of alcohol withdrawal.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is discussing coping strategies with a client who has experienced a recent loss. Which of the following strategies should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Engaging in regular physical activity can help manage grief by reducing stress and improving mood through endorphin release. Suppressing emotions, avoiding discussion, or using alcohol are maladaptive and can worsen emotional health.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a history of depression and suicidal ideation. Which of the following client statements should the nurse identify as requiring further intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The statement 'I don’t have anyone I can talk to about my problems' indicates a lack of social support, which is concerning for an adolescent with a history of depression and suicidal ideation. Social support is critical for mental health, and this statement suggests a need for immediate intervention to connect the client with resources or support systems. The other statements reflect positive behaviors or manageable issues.