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 diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is being assessed by a healthcare professional. Which symptom would the healthcare professional expect the client to exhibit?
- A. Delusions of grandeur
- B. Hypervigilance
- C. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
- D. Periods of excessive sleeping
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hypervigilance is a common symptom. Hypervigilance refers to a state of increased alertness, awareness, and sensitivity to potential threats or danger. This heightened state of vigilance can manifest as being easily startled, having difficulty relaxing or sleeping, and constantly scanning the environment for signs of danger. It is an adaptive response to the trauma experienced and can significantly impact the individual's daily functioning. The other options are not typically associated with PTSD. Delusions of grandeur are more commonly seen in certain psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors are characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), not PTSD. Periods of excessive sleeping may be seen in conditions like depression, but they are not a hallmark symptom of PTSD.
3. A client with major depressive disorder expresses feelings of hopelessness. Which nursing intervention should the nurse implement to address these feelings?
- A. Encourage the client to engage in physical activity.
- B. Provide opportunities for the client to make decisions.
- C. Help the client identify positive aspects of their life.
- D. Encourage the client to verbalize feelings of hopelessness.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a client with major depressive disorder expresses feelings of hopelessness, helping them identify positive aspects of their life can be an effective nursing intervention. This approach can assist in shifting their focus from negativity to positivity, promoting a sense of hope and potentially improving their overall outlook and well-being. By highlighting the positive aspects, the nurse can support the client in recognizing reasons for hope and encourage a more optimistic perspective, which can aid in addressing and alleviating feelings of hopelessness. Encouraging physical activity (Choice A) may be beneficial for overall well-being but may not directly address feelings of hopelessness. Providing opportunities for decision-making (Choice B) can empower the client but may not specifically target feelings of hopelessness. Encouraging verbalization of feelings (Choice D) is important but may not be as effective as helping the client shift their focus to positive aspects of life.
4. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Encourage the client to avoid physical activity.
- B. Encourage the client to engage in social activities.
- C. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy.
- D. Encourage the client to set realistic goals.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Encouraging the client to participate in group therapy is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a client with bipolar disorder experiencing a depressive episode. Group therapy provides a supportive environment where the client can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and receive emotional support from peers and mental health professionals. It can help reduce feelings of isolation, improve social skills, and enhance overall well-being. Group therapy also promotes a sense of belonging and understanding, which are essential for individuals dealing with bipolar disorder and depressive symptoms. Choices A, B, and D are not the most appropriate interventions for a client experiencing a depressive episode in bipolar disorder. Encouraging the client to avoid physical activity may worsen their symptoms, promoting social activities may not address the underlying issues effectively, and setting goals may be overwhelming during a depressive episode.
5. A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is being cared for by a nurse. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client manage compulsive behaviors?
- A. Encourage the client to suppress compulsive behaviors.
- B. Allow the client to perform compulsive behaviors with limits.
- C. Teach the client relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
- D. Discourage the client from performing compulsive behaviors.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Allowing the client to perform compulsive behaviors with limits is a therapeutic intervention for managing OCD. This approach grants the client some autonomy while ensuring that the behaviors do not excessively disrupt daily life. Setting boundaries helps structure the behaviors, decreasing anxiety and distress associated with OCD. Encouraging the client to suppress compulsive behaviors (choice A) may lead to increased anxiety and potential worsening of symptoms. Teaching relaxation techniques (choice C) is beneficial for managing anxiety in general but may not directly address the compulsive behaviors. Discouraging the client from performing compulsive behaviors (choice D) without providing alternative strategies or support may increase distress and resistance.
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