NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The client with bipolar disorder, manic phase, has a valproic acid (Depakote) level of 15 μg/mL. Which of the following client behaviors should the nurse judge to be due to this level of valproic acid? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A, B, D
Rationale: A valproic acid level of 15 μg/mL is subtherapeutic (therapeutic range: 50–100 μg/mL), so manic symptoms like irritability, grandiosity, and labile mood persist.
Question 2 of 5
A client is entering the chemical dependency unit for treatment of alcohol dependency. Which of the client's possessions should the nurse place in a locked area?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Antiseptic mouthwash should be locked, as it often contains alcohol, which could be misused by a client with alcohol dependency, posing a risk to recovery.
Question 3 of 5
The client with bipolar disorder, manic phase, has a valproic acid (Depakote) level of 15 μg/mL. Which of the following client behaviors should the nurse judge to be due to this level of valproic acid? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A, B, D
Rationale: A valproic acid level of 15 μg/mL is subtherapeutic (therapeutic range: 50–100 μg/mL), so manic symptoms like irritability, grandiosity, and labile mood persist.
Question 4 of 5
A client diagnosed with major depression spends most of the day lying in bed with the sheet pulled over his head. Which of the following approaches by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Frequent initiation of contact shows care and encourages engagement without overwhelming the client.
Question 5 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.