RN HESI Mental Health 2023

Extract:

Question 1 of 5

The nurse is assessing a client who reports using cocaine several times in the past week. Which observations should the nurse expect on assessment?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cocaine use typically results in stimulation of the central nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and heightened alertness. Bradycardia and bradypnea are not typical, as cocaine causes tachycardia and increased respiratory rate. Hallucinations and delusions are more associated with hallucinogens or psychotic disorders. Lethargy and depression occur during the 'crash' phase, not the immediate effects of cocaine use.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse who is co-leading group therapy recognizes that a client is beginning to experience severe levels of anxiety. Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

A. Ask the client to describe and identify the source of the feelings B. Provide education about ways to cope with anxiety C. Assist the client with relaxation techniques in the group D. Escort the client from the group to reduce stimuli

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Assisting the client with relaxation techniques in the group is the best intervention as it provides immediate support and can help alleviate the client's anxiety in the moment. Exploring the source of anxiety may not be suitable during a group session where immediate relief is needed. Education on coping mechanisms is valuable but does not address immediate needs. Escorting the client out may be considered if anxiety becomes overwhelming, but it is secondary to attempting in-group relaxation.

Question 3 of 5

The nurse is performing the admission assessment for a client with schizophrenia in an acute care inpatient facility. The nurse should identify which observed behavior is characteristic of schizophrenia?

A. Responds with illogical answers to questions B. Admits to frequently thinking about committing suicide C. Describes times of depression followed by feelings of euphoria D. Exhibits compulsive, ritualistic behaviors

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Responding with illogical answers indicates disorganized thinking, a hallmark of schizophrenia during psychosis. Suicide thoughts are not specific to schizophrenia. Depression and euphoria suggest bipolar disorder. Compulsive behaviors are more typical of OCD.

Question 4 of 5

The charge nurse of the psychiatric unit observes clients in the day area. Which client is exhibiting symptoms of a conversion disorder?

A. A middle-aged man who is complaining of shortness of breath and is diaphoretic B. A young woman who suddenly goes blind with no indication of organic pathology C. An older adult who continuously complains of a headache and back pain D. An adolescent who becomes extremely anxious about going outside

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sudden blindness with no organic pathology suggests a functional neurological symptom disorder, which falls under conversion disorder. Shortness of breath and diaphoresis may indicate a medical condition or panic attack. Headaches and back pain could have various causes. Anxiety about going outside suggests agoraphobia or another anxiety disorder.

Extract:

The nurse continues to care for the patient
The client is a 19-year-old male who is in the emergency room for a leg injury. He states he was returning to his dorm from a party and fell about 5 feet (1.5 meters) into a small ravine on campus. The client states that he drinks socially and takes no medications for any health condition.
The nurse is listening to the client.

Question 5 of 5

Because the client is a male, he is especially at risk for which psychosocial two sequalae of sexual assault?

A. Suicide B. Depression C. Post-traumatic stress disorder D. Becoming an abuser E. Human immunodeficiency virus F. Chlamydia

Correct Answer: B,C

Rationale: B: Depression is common post-sexual assault due to psychological trauma. C: PTSD is frequent, with symptoms like flashbacks and anxiety. A: Suicide is a risk but not male-specific. D: Becoming an abuser is less common. E, F: HIV and chlamydia are physical, not psychosocial, risks.