ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019
1. A client with generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I can stop taking this medication once I feel less anxious.
- B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- C. It may take several weeks for this medication to take full effect.
- D. This medication can cause dependency.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it indicates a misunderstanding about buspirone. Buspirone should not be abruptly stopped, and patients should follow the prescribed regimen consistently. Stopping the medication without proper guidance can lead to adverse effects or a return of anxiety symptoms. Choices B, C, and D demonstrate an understanding of important aspects of buspirone therapy: avoiding alcohol due to interactions, being patient for the medication to reach full effectiveness, and being aware of the potential for dependency with this medication.
2. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which intervention should the nurse implement to support the client's recovery?
- A. Encourage the client to engage in physical activity.
- B. Encourage the client to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- C. Encourage the client to set realistic goals for daily activities.
- D. Encourage the client to express feelings of sadness.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During a depressive episode in bipolar disorder, encouraging the client to set realistic goals for daily activities can be beneficial. Setting achievable goals can provide structure, a sense of accomplishment, and help in breaking tasks into manageable steps, which can support the client's recovery process. Options A and B, while important in managing bipolar disorder, may not directly address the client's depressive symptoms during this episode. Option D, encouraging the client to express feelings of sadness, is not as effective as setting achievable goals in providing structure and a sense of accomplishment during a depressive episode.
3. When assessing a client's behavior for potential aggression, what behavior would be recognized as the highest predictor of future violence?
- A. Pacing and restlessness
- B. Verbal threats
- C. History of violence
- D. Substance abuse
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A history of violence is considered the highest predictor of future violence. Clients who have a history of violent behavior are more likely to engage in violent acts in the future compared to those who exhibit other behaviors such as pacing, making verbal threats, or having substance abuse issues. Understanding a client's history of violence is crucial in assessing the risk of potential aggression and violence. Pacing and restlessness, verbal threats, and substance abuse can be concerning behaviors but do not carry the same predictive value for future violence as a documented history of violent behavior.
4. During a community education session on mental health, which statement about stigma and mental illness is correct?
- A. Stigma has no impact on treatment outcomes.
- B. Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking treatment.
- C. Stigma is only a problem in developing countries.
- D. Stigma related to mental illness is decreasing significantly worldwide.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking treatment.' Stigma surrounding mental illness can create barriers for individuals seeking treatment. It can lead to feelings of shame, fear of judgment, and discrimination, which may deter individuals from accessing the necessary support and care they need. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Stigma does have a significant impact on treatment outcomes by discouraging individuals from seeking help, it is not limited to developing countries but is a global issue, and unfortunately, stigma related to mental illness is still prevalent worldwide, although efforts are being made to reduce it.
5. When caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal, which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent complications?
- A. Provide a well-lit environment.
- B. Administer antipsychotic medication as prescribed.
- C. Monitor the client's vital signs closely.
- D. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Encouraging the client to express their feelings is essential during alcohol withdrawal as it can help them cope with the emotional and psychological stress associated with the process. This intervention promotes open communication, allows the client to verbalize their emotions, and may prevent escalating anxiety or agitation, ultimately reducing the risk of complications. Providing a well-lit environment (Choice A) is not directly related to preventing complications of alcohol withdrawal. Administering antipsychotic medication (Choice B) is not the standard treatment for alcohol withdrawal; medications such as benzodiazepines are more commonly used. While monitoring vital signs (Choice C) is important, encouraging the client to express their feelings (Choice D) directly addresses emotional well-being, which is crucial during this vulnerable time.
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