at what point should the nurse determine that a client is at risk for developing a mental disorder
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ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 Quizlet

1. At what point should the nurse determine that a client is at risk for developing a mental disorder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should determine that the client is at risk for mental disorder when responses to stress are maladaptive and interfere with daily functioning. The DSM-5 indicates that in order to be diagnosed with a mental disorder, there must be significant disturbance in cognition, emotion, regulation, or behavior that reflects a dysfunction in the psychological, biological or developmental processes underlying mental functioning. These disorders are usually associated with significant distress or disability in social, occupational, or other important activities. The client's ability to communicate distress would be considered a positive attribute.

2. A physically and emotionally healthy client has just been fired. During a routine office visit, he states to a nurse: 'Perhaps this was the best thing to happen. Maybe I'll look into pursuing an art degree.' How should the nurse characterize the client's appraisal of the job loss stressor?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The client's statement indicates that he views the job loss as an opportunity for growth and a new direction in life rather than a threat or harm/loss. He sees it as a challenge and is considering it positively, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Choice A, 'Irrelevant,' is incorrect as the client's response shows relevance and a positive outlook. Choice B, 'Harm/loss,' is incorrect as the client does not express a sense of harm or loss but rather opportunity. Choice C, 'Threatening,' is incorrect as the client's response does not convey fear or threat but rather a positive reframe of the situation.

3. Which client statement should alert a nurse that a client may be responding maladaptively to stress?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Reliance on social isolation as a coping mechanism is maladaptive and can hinder the development of appropriate coping skills and access to support systems. It may indicate a lack of healthy coping strategies and social connections, which are important for managing stress effectively. Choice B is a positive coping strategy that promotes self-reflection and emotional expression. Choice C reflects a proactive approach to managing stress through physical activity. Choice D shows a willingness to seek professional help, which is a healthy coping mechanism.

4. A teenage boy is attracted to a female teacher. Without objective evidence, a school nurse overhears the boy state, 'I know she wants me.' This statement reflects which defense mechanism?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Projection. The nurse should determine that the client's statement reflects the defense mechanism of projection. Projection refers to the attribution of one's unacceptable feelings or impulses to another person. In this case, the boy is projecting his own desires onto the female teacher, believing that she wants him. By externalizing his feelings, the boy reduces his anxiety and discomfort about his own attraction. Displacement involves transferring emotions from one target to another, not attributing one's own feelings to others. Rationalization involves creating logical explanations for unacceptable behaviors, not projecting feelings onto others. Sublimation is the channeling of unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable actions, which is not demonstrated in this scenario.

5. During cognitive-behavioral therapy, a 12-year-old patient reports to the nurse practitioner:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In cognitive-behavioral therapy, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts is crucial for progress. Choice B demonstrates the patient's ability to identify and correct distorted thoughts, indicating positive advancement in therapy. This cognitive restructuring is a key component of cognitive-behavioral therapy, helping individuals develop healthier thinking patterns and coping strategies.

Similar Questions

A client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to address this symptom?
Which of the following is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications?
When developing a care plan for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which of the following interventions should not be included?
A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. The nurse should monitor the patient for which common side effect of this medication?
A patient presents in the Emergency Department immediately following a shooting incident in a school where she has been teaching. There is no evidence of physical injury, but she appears very hyperactive and talkative. Which of these symptoms manifested by the patient are common initial biological responses to stress? Select one that doesn't apply.

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