ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Nursing 12601 Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Nurses are encouraged to constantly be aware of the nonverbal communication of a client with mental illness primarily for which reason?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, conveys unconscious emotional states and needs, offering critical insights into a client’s condition. Verbal communication may be affected (
A), but nonverbal cues are broader. Guardedness (
B) is not universal, and thoughts vs. behaviors (
C) oversimplifies the issue.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse and client are engaged in a discussion. The client says, 'I feel really close to you. You are the only true friend I have.' Which response by the nurse would be most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Validating the client’s trust while reinforcing the therapeutic relationship’s purpose (
C) is supportive and professional. A redirects prematurely, B is harsh, and D minimizes the client’s feelings.
Question 3 of 5
The client says, 'My marriage is just great. My spouse and I usually agree on everything.' The nurse observes the client's foot moving continuously as the client twirls a shirt button. What type of communication is the client presenting?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Incongruent communication occurs when verbal (positive marriage statement) and nonverbal (fidgeting) messages conflict, suggesting underlying distress. Abstract messages convey ideas, concrete messages are observable actions, and congruent messages align verbal/nonverbal cues.
Question 4 of 5
A nursing instructor is comparing homeless people without mental illness to homeless people with mental illness. Homeless people with mental illness:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Mental illness can lead to behaviors resulting in legal issues, increasing jail time. Family contact (
A) is often reduced, employment barriers (
B) are greater, and shelter use (
D) is typically higher due to vulnerability.
Question 5 of 5
A new nurse tells a mentor, 'I want to convey to my clients that I am interested in them and that I want to listen to what they have to say.' Which behaviors are helpful in meeting the nurse's goal? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,C
Rationale: Eye contact (
A) and open posture (
C) convey interest and approachability. Crossed legs (
B), desk barriers (
D), and hands in pockets (E) suggest disengagement or defensiveness.