ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Assessment Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 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 2 of 5
A nurse is discussing discipline techniques with the parent of a preschooler. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of time-out as a form of discipline?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Using a kitchen timer ensures a consistent, predictable time-out duration, reinforcing the discipline technique. Ten minutes is too long, rooms create negative associations, and vague statements lack specificity.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is creating a plan of care for a newly admitted client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A structured schedule helps reduce anxiety and manage OCD symptoms by providing predictability. Detailed explanations may overwhelm, stimulating environments increase anxiety, and strict ritual limits may initially heighten distress.
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 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.