NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The client states to the nurse at the outpatient clinic, 'I don't feel ready to go back to work. It's only been a week since I left the hospital.' Assessment reveals a flat affect, disheveled appearance, poor posture, and minimal eye contact during interaction. The nurse asks the client whether he is thinking about harming himself. The client tells the nurse he has a loaded revolver at home and will probably use it. Which of the following should the nurse do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A specific plan with access to a lethal means (loaded revolver) requires immediate hospitalization.
Question 2 of 5
The wife of a client with alcohol dependency tells the nurse, 'I'm tired of making excuses for him to his boss and coworkers when he can't make it into work. I believe him every time he says he's going to quit.' The nurse recognizes the wife's statement as indicating which of the following behaviors?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The wife's behavior indicates enabling, as she covers for the client's actions, inadvertently supporting his alcohol dependency by reducing consequences.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following reactions to learning about a diagnosis of being HIV positive would put the client at the greatest need of intervention by the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Vague statements like finding a 'solution' may indicate suicidal intent, requiring immediate intervention.
Question 4 of 5
A female client in an anger management group states, 'My doctor tells me I need to get mad more often and not let people tell me what to do. Maybe she thinks I should be more aggressive.' What information should the nurse incorporate in the response to this client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should explain that denying anger and lacking assertiveness can be as problematic as aggressiveness, as it may lead to suppressed emotions and poor coping, aligning with the doctor's advice to express anger appropriately.
Question 5 of 5
A 17-year-old is admitted to a psychiatric day treatment program due to severe lower back pain since her mother's death 3 years ago. Medical examinations, the nurse's health care for her pain. She cares for her four younger siblings after school and on weekends because of her father's long work hours. Which pre-discharge statement indicates that treatment for her condition has been successful?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The statement about needing rest and relaxation suggests the client recognizes stress as a factor in her pain and is adopting healthier coping strategies, indicating successful treatment.