a client experiencing a manic episode is talking rapidly and jumping from one topic to another which term describes this symptom
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019

1. A client experiencing a manic episode is talking rapidly and jumping from one topic to another. Which term describes this symptom?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a manic episode, 'Flight of ideas' is characterized by rapid speech, where the individual moves quickly between topics without a clear connection. This symptom reflects the racing thoughts and impulsivity often seen in manic episodes. Circumstantiality refers to unnecessary detail and delay in getting to the point, tangentiality involves going off on a tangent or unrelated topics, and perseveration is the persistent repetition of a response or behavior. Therefore, 'Flight of ideas' best describes the symptom of rapidly changing topics during a manic episode.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. The client states, 'I am the president of the United States.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should avoid challenging the client's delusions directly. Asking for more information can help the nurse understand the client's experience and build rapport.

3. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. The most appropriate intervention is to:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a patient with PTSD is experiencing flashbacks, the most appropriate intervention is to help them reorient to the present. This intervention can assist in reducing the intensity of the flashback and providing a sense of safety for the patient. Choice A is incorrect because encouraging the patient to talk about the trauma during a flashback may exacerbate their distress. Choice C is incorrect as leaving the patient alone can increase their feelings of isolation and fear. Choice D is incorrect because reminding the patient that the flashback is not real may invalidate their experience and increase their sense of disconnection.

4. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following interventions should the nurse avoid implementing?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a manic episode in bipolar disorder, interventions should focus on providing a structured environment, encouraging rest periods, and setting limits on inappropriate behaviors. Allowing the client to engage in stimulating activities may exacerbate the symptoms of mania, such as increased energy, impulsivity, and risk-taking behaviors. Therefore, it is important to avoid encouraging such activities to prevent worsening of manic symptoms.

5. A nursing student new to psychiatric-mental health nursing asks a peer what resources he can use to identify the symptoms present in a specific psychiatric disorder. The best answer would be:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The DSM-5 is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals in the U.S. It provides criteria for diagnosing different psychiatric disorders based on symptoms and clinical observations. Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) and Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) are focused on nursing interventions and outcomes, respectively, while NANDA-I nursing diagnoses are related to identifying nursing problems and their contributing factors.

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