NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
When assessing a 17-year-old male client with depression for suicide risk, which of the following questions is best?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Directly asking about suicidal thoughts is the most effective way to assess immediate risk.
Question 2 of 5
During the initial interview, a client with a compulsive eating disorder remarks, 'I can't stand myself and the way I look.' Which of the following statements by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Encouraging the client to express feelings promotes self-awareness and therapeutic exploration of body image issues.
Question 3 of 5
A client who is pacing and wringing his hands states, 'I just need to walk' when questioned by the nurse about what he is feeling. Which of the following responses by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Asking 'Are you feeling anxious?' is therapeutic, as it directly addresses the client's observable signs of anxiety, encouraging verbalization and engagement.
Question 4 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.
Question 5 of 5
A client with panic disorder is taking alprazolam (Xanax) 1 mg P.O. three times daily. The nurse understands that this medication is effective in blocking the symptoms of panic because of its specific action on which of the following neurotransmitters?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Alprazolam enhances GABA, reducing panic symptoms.