NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The client with an Axis I diagnosis of schizophrenia, undifferentiated type, is acutely psychotic and exhibits religious delusions and hallucinations, loose associations, and concrete thinking. When the nurse offers the client her medication, the client states, 'I don't need that. God will heal me.' The nurse should respond to the client by saying:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Explaining that the medication will help clear thoughts and reduce anxiety directly addresses the client's symptoms in a concrete way, encouraging adherence without challenging her religious beliefs.
Question 2 of 5
A client with paranoid schizophrenia refuses to eat, stating, 'The food is laced with poison.' Which nursing intervention is most appropriate initially?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Offering a sealed beverage addresses the client's delusion in a non-confrontational way, increasing the likelihood of acceptance while ensuring hydration.
Question 3 of 5
A week ago, a tornado destroyed the client's home and seriously injured her husband. The client has been walking around the hospital in a daze without any outward display of emotions. She tells the nurse that she feels like she's going crazy. Which of the following actions should the nurse use first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Reassuring that her feelings are typical reactions to trauma is first, as it normalizes her experience, reduces fear, and builds trust.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with Major Depression and Substance Dependence is being admitted to the Dual Diagnosis Unit. In explaining the focus of this program, the nurse should tell the client:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The focus is simultaneous treatment of addiction and depression, as dual diagnosis programs address both conditions concurrently to improve outcomes.
Question 5 of 5
A client is sitting in the corner of the dayroom cocking his head to one side as if he hears something, but no one is nearby. The nurse suspects he is having auditory hallucinations. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Directly asking about what the client is hearing addresses the suspected auditory hallucinations, allowing the nurse to assess the content and severity of the symptom.