HESI RN
RN Hesi Mental Health Exam 1 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
When developing a plan of care for a client admitted to the psychiatric unit following aspiration of a caustic material related to a suicide attempt, which nursing problem has the highest priority?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Aspiration of a caustic material can cause respiratory distress, making ineffective breathing pattern the priority to ensure physiological stability. Other problems are secondary.
Question 2 of 5
When assessing a female client who has been taking an antipsychotic medication for the past year, the nurse observes that the client demonstrates involuntary foot tapping while both feet are flat on the floor. The nurse plans to report the observation to the healthcare provider. Which additional action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Involuntary foot tapping may indicate tardive dyskinesia, a side effect of antipsychotics. Documenting on the AIMS allows systematic monitoring. Other actions misattribute the symptom or are irrelevant.
Question 3 of 5
A client admitted to the mental health unit starts to shout and scream at the nurse. Which approach is best for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Remaining calm and present helps de-escalate agitation and provides support. Confronting, distracting, or ignoring may escalate the situation or make the client feel unheard.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is providing teaching to a client and family about schizophrenia before discharge from an inpatient facility. The nurse should instruct the family to notify the healthcare provider when which behavior is observed?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Social withdrawal can indicate a potential relapse or worsening of schizophrenia symptoms, requiring prompt attention. Other behaviors are less specific or not directly linked to relapse.
Question 5 of 5
The healthcare provider prescribes lithium carbonate for a client diagnosed with bipolar, manic depression. It is most important for the nurse to review which laboratory finding prior to beginning the drug therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Serum creatinine assesses renal function, critical before starting lithium due to its renal excretion and risk of nephrotoxicity. Other labs are less directly relevant.