NCLEX-RN
Psychiatric NCLEX RN Questions Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The father of a U.S. Marine who was killed 2 days ago in Iraq is admitted after a serious suicide attempt. He is medically stable and has signed a no harm contract. Which of the following is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Monitoring for renewed suicidal ideation is the priority, given the recent suicide attempt and acute grief, to ensure immediate safety. Grief counseling, antidepressants, and stress management are important but secondary to ongoing safety assessment.
Question 2 of 5
A client is admitted to the psychiatric hospital for evaluation after numerous incidents of threatening others, angry outbursts, and two episodes of hitting a coworker at the grocery store where he works. The client is very anxious and tells the nurse who admits him, 'I didn't mean to hit him. He made me so mad I didn't know what to do.' Which of the following is the priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Teaching anger management techniques is the priority to address the client's inability to control violent outbursts, providing tools to manage anger proactively. Anxiolytics may help anxiety but not the root issue, group therapy is secondary, and a no harm contract addresses safety but not skill-building.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse judges that a client is ready to be released from seclusion and restraints when the client demonstrates which of the following behaviors?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Showing signs of self-control indicates the client is no longer a danger, justifying release from seclusion/restraints. Sedation, reduced struggling, or stopping verbal outbursts do not necessarily confirm restored self-control.
Question 4 of 5
A client with a history of angry outbursts is taught to use deep breathing exercises. Which client statement indicates successful learning?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The statement 'Deep breathing helps me calm down before I get too angry' shows the client understands and applies the technique proactively to manage anger, indicating successful learning. Other responses suggest misunderstanding or reluctance to use the technique effectively.
Question 5 of 5
A client admitted after a panic attack asks, 'Will this happen again?' Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Discussing anxiety management strategies empowers the client with tools to prevent or cope with future panic attacks. Minimizing the issue, suggesting medication alone, or dismissing worry does not address the client's need for proactive coping.