ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is reviewing laboratory values for a client who has bipolar disorder and a prescription for lithium. Which of the following laboratory results places the client at risk for lithium toxicity?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sodium 130 mEq/L. Low sodium levels predispose the client to lithium toxicity as both sodium and lithium compete for reabsorption in the kidneys. Low sodium levels can lead to increased lithium reabsorption, elevating lithium levels and increasing the risk of toxicity.
Incorrect answers:
A: Calcium levels are not directly related to lithium toxicity.
C: Chloride levels do not impact lithium toxicity risk.
D: Potassium levels are not directly linked to lithium toxicity.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse in a mental facility is assessing a client for suicide risk factors using the SAD PERSONS scale. Which of the following findings indicates a risk for suicide?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The client is 50 years of age. This indicates a risk for suicide because being in the age group of 45-54 years is a significant risk factor according to the SAD PERSONS scale. This age group has a higher likelihood of experiencing life stressors and psychiatric disorders, increasing their vulnerability to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Option A (The client is married) does not directly correlate with suicide risk according to the SAD PERSONS scale. Option B (The client is female) is a general demographic factor and not specific to suicide risk assessment. Option D (The client has diabetes mellitus) is a medical condition that may contribute to overall health but is not a direct risk factor for suicide according to the scale.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse in a community clinic is planning an educational session for a group of clients. Which of the following strategies should the nurse use when teaching about stress management?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage discussion and practice of coping skills. This strategy is effective because it engages clients actively in their learning process, allowing for exploration and application of coping mechanisms tailored to their individual needs. By encouraging discussion, the nurse can assess clients' understanding and provide personalized support. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because lengthy lectures may not be engaging or effective for all clients, discouraging emotions can hinder the therapeutic process, and teaching a one-size-fits-all technique may not address the diverse needs of the group.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Restlessness. In generalized anxiety disorder, restlessness is a common symptom due to excessive worry and tension. The individual may find it difficult to relax or sit still. Increased energy (choice
A) is not typically associated with generalized anxiety disorder, as individuals often feel fatigued. Euphoric mood (choice
C) is not likely, as anxiety tends to cause distress. Depersonalization (choice
D) is more commonly associated with dissociative disorders, not generalized anxiety disorder.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is providing teaching for a school-age child and his parents regarding a new prescription for risperidone. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "I will make sure my son takes the last dose of the day by 4 PM." This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching because risperidone is typically recommended to be taken in the evening due to its sedative effects, which can help minimize daytime drowsiness. Administering the last dose by 4 PM ensures that the sedative effects are most effective during nighttime hours, promoting better sleep and reducing daytime sedation.
The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Low sodium diet is not directly related to risperidone use.
C: Hand tremors are not a common side effect of risperidone.
D: Excessive urination is not a common side effect of risperidone and would not be a reason to contact the doctor in this case.