NCLEX-RN
NCLEX-RN Mental Health Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
When developing the teaching plan for the family of a client with severe depression who is to receive electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which of the following information should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Temporary confusion and disorientation are common post-ECT effects, and families should be prepared.
Question 2 of 5
When caring for a client who has overdosed on phencyclidine (PCP), the nurse should be especially cautious about which of the following client behaviors?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Violent behavior is the primary concern, as PCP overdose can cause aggression and unpredictability, posing a safety risk to the client and others.
Question 3 of 5
A female client with acute mania brings six suitcases and three shopping bags of personal belongings on admission to the unit. When informed that some of the suitcases and bags need to be returned home with her husband because of a lack of storage space, the client begins to use profanity against the nurse. Which of the following responses by the nurse is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Clearly stating that profanity is unacceptable sets boundaries without escalating the situation.
Question 4 of 5
A client has been admitted to the emergency department with alcohol withdrawal delirium. At 9 a.m. on 10/25, the nurse notes that the client is confused. His vital signs are T=99°F, P=50, R=10, and BP=100/60. The nurse compares these findings to the nurses' progress notes from admission 24 hours ago. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Attempting to arouse the client is the first action, as it assesses the level of consciousness and responsiveness, critical in determining the severity of delirium and guiding further interventions.
Question 5 of 5
A client has been in the critical care unit for 3 days following a severe myocardial infarction. Although he is medically stable, he has begun to have fluctuating episodes of consciousness, illogical thinking, and anxiety. He is picking at the air to 'catch these baby angels flying around my head.' While waiting for medical and psychiatric results, the nurse must intervene with the client's needs. Which of the following needs have the highest priority? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,B,D
Rationale: Reducing stimuli (
A) minimizes confusion, avoiding challenges to hallucinations (
B) prevents agitation, and gently presenting reality (
D) supports orientation without confrontation. Assuming dementia (E) is premature, and orienting to medical condition (
C) may overwhelm the client.