ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019
1. A client is experiencing a moderate level of anxiety. Which is an example of an appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Allow the client to pace in a safe environment.
- B. Encourage the client to discuss feelings.
- C. Help the client identify the cause of anxiety.
- D. Provide a distraction for the client.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Allowing the client to pace in a safe environment is an appropriate nursing intervention for managing moderate anxiety levels. Allowing pacing provides the client with a physical outlet for their anxiety and can help them release nervous energy without increasing distress. It promotes movement and can aid in reducing feelings of restlessness or agitation. Encouraging the client to discuss feelings (Choice B) is more suitable for addressing emotional aspects of anxiety rather than providing an immediate physical outlet. Helping the client identify the cause of anxiety (Choice C) may be more appropriate for long-term management but may not address the immediate need for physical release. Providing a distraction (Choice D) may not directly address the physical needs associated with moderate anxiety levels.
2. Which neurotransmitter is primarily implicated in the development of schizophrenia?
- A. Serotonin
- B. Norepinephrine
- C. Dopamine
- D. Acetylcholine
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is dopamine. Dopamine dysregulation is a key factor in the development of schizophrenia. Excess dopamine activity in certain brain regions is associated with positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. Dopaminergic medications that reduce dopamine levels are often used to manage these symptoms, further supporting the role of dopamine in schizophrenia. Serotonin (Choice A) is more commonly associated with mood regulation and is implicated in depression and anxiety disorders. Norepinephrine (Choice B) is involved in the body's 'fight or flight' response and is linked to conditions like anxiety and PTSD. Acetylcholine (Choice D) plays a role in muscle movement and memory but is not primarily implicated in schizophrenia.
3. Which of the following statements should a healthcare provider recognize as true about defense mechanisms? Select all that apply.
- A. They are employed when there is a threat to biological or psychological integrity.
- B. They are controlled by the id and deal with primal urges.
- C. They are used in an effort to increase anxiety.
- D. They are protective devices for the superego.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Defense mechanisms are employed by the ego, not the id or superego, in response to threats to biological or psychological integrity. They aim to relieve anxiety, not increase it. By redirecting focus, they help manage mild to moderate anxiety and are often self-deceptive in nature.
4. A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder is receiving cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which outcome indicates that the therapy is effective?
- A. The client identifies and challenges negative thoughts.
- B. The client reports an increase in suicidal thoughts.
- C. The client experiences an increase in anxiety.
- D. The client shows no change in behavior.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), one of the primary objectives is to help clients identify and challenge their negative thoughts. This process allows the individual to reframe their thinking patterns and develop more adaptive coping strategies. Reporting an increase in suicidal thoughts (Choice B) or experiencing an increase in anxiety (Choice C) are not desired outcomes and may indicate a need for further intervention. Showing no change in behavior (Choice D) suggests that the therapy has not been effective. Therefore, the correct indicator of effective therapy in this context is the client's ability to identify and challenge negative thoughts (Choice A).
5. A client with borderline personality disorder is receiving care. Which of the following interventions should be included in the plan of care?
- A. Set clear and consistent boundaries
- B. Encourage independence
- C. Avoid discussing the client's feelings
- D. Use a firm, authoritative approach
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When caring for a client with borderline personality disorder, it is essential to encourage independence rather than dependency. This helps promote autonomy and self-reliance, which are important aspects of treatment. Setting clear and consistent boundaries is also crucial, as it provides structure and predictability. Avoiding discussing the client's feelings is not recommended, as addressing emotions and promoting emotional awareness is a key part of therapy. Using a firm, authoritative approach may not be the most effective strategy as it can lead to power struggles and conflicts in individuals with borderline personality disorder.
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