ATI RN
ATI Mental Health
1. A client is being taught relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. Which of the following techniques should not be included in the teaching? Select all that apply.
- A. Deep breathing exercises
- B. Progressive muscle relaxation
- C. Mindfulness meditation
- D. Cognitive restructuring
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation are commonly used relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. Cognitive restructuring is a cognitive-behavioral technique aimed at changing negative thought patterns and beliefs, not a relaxation technique. It focuses on altering cognitive distortions rather than inducing physical relaxation responses.
2. A client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching? Select all that apply.
- A. I should avoid caffeine because it can increase my anxiety.
- B. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
- C. Practicing deep breathing exercises can help reduce my anxiety.
- D. I should gradually face situations that cause me anxiety.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The statement 'I can stop taking my medication once I feel better' indicates a need for further teaching. It is crucial for individuals with generalized anxiety disorder to continue taking their medication as prescribed even when they start feeling better. Discontinuing medication abruptly can lead to a recurrence of symptoms. It is essential to emphasize the importance of following the prescribed treatment plan and regularly consulting with a healthcare provider to assess the need for medication adjustments.
3. When assessing a client with suspected bipolar disorder, which of the following findings should the nurse not expect?
- A. Periods of elevated mood
- B. Decreased need for sleep
- C. Flight of ideas
- D. Anhedonia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In bipolar disorder, common findings include periods of elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, and flight of ideas. Anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure, is more indicative of conditions like major depressive disorder. Therefore, the nurse should not expect to find anhedonia in a client with suspected bipolar disorder.
4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client's use of defense mechanisms. Which statement would indicate to the healthcare professional that the client is using the defense mechanism of projection?
- A. The client accuses others of being angry when it is the client who is angry.
- B. The client refuses to acknowledge a problem despite evidence to the contrary.
- C. The client attributes his own feelings of hostility to others.
- D. The client avoids dealing with painful feelings by focusing on something else.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Projection is a defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable feelings, thoughts, or impulses onto others. In this case, the client is projecting his own feelings of hostility onto others by assuming they possess these feelings instead.
5. When developing a care plan for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which of the following interventions should not be included?
- A. Encourage the client to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.
- B. Teach the client relaxation techniques.
- C. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
- D. Provide a structured daily routine.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When caring for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), it is essential to consider therapeutic interventions. Encouraging the client to avoid anxiety-provoking situations is not recommended as it can reinforce their anxiety. Teaching relaxation techniques, encouraging the expression of feelings, and providing a structured daily routine are beneficial strategies in managing generalized anxiety disorder by promoting coping skills and emotional expression while fostering stability and predictability.
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