NCLEX-RN
Psychiatric NCLEX RN Questions Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following statements by the nurse participating in a group confrontation of a coworker's most helpful in reducing the coworker's denial about alcohol being a problem?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Saying 'You have alcohol on your breath' is most helpful, as it provides concrete evidence of the problem, directly challenging denial in a factual manner.
Question 2 of 5
The client who has been taking venlafaxine (Effexor) 25 mg P.O. three times a day for the past 2 days states, 'This medicine isn't doing me any good. I'm still so depressed.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Explaining the 2–4 week onset of antidepressants sets realistic expectations and encourages adherence.
Question 3 of 5
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is brought to the hospital from a group home where he became agitated, threw a chair at another client, and has been refusing medication for 8 weeks. The client exhibits a flat affect, is not caring for his hygiene, and has become increasingly withdrawn and asocial. The physician orders treatment with risperidone (Risperdal) to improve the client's negative and positive symptoms of schizophrenia. When evaluating the drug's effectiveness on the client's negative symptoms, the nurse should expect improvement in which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, is effective for negative symptoms like apathy, lack of motivation, and asocial behavior, which are evident in the client's presentation.
Question 4 of 5
A client with paranoid schizophrenia accuses staff of stealing. Which response is most therapeutic?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Checking belongings together addresses the accusation practically, reducing mistrust without confrontation.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is to administer Xanax (alprazolam) to help a client of Japanese descent calm down. The order reads Xanax 0.25 to 1 mg by mouth as needed for agitation. What is the best dose for the nurse to give this client?
Correct Answer: 0.25 mg
Rationale: Starting with 0.25 mg is best, as individuals of Japanese descent may metabolize benzodiazepines more slowly due to genetic factors, and the lowest effective dose minimizes risks.