the client recently experienced surviving a plane crash and is assessed by the nurse which client statements would cause the nurse to suspect that the

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam

1. The client recently survived a plane crash and is assessed by the nurse. Which client statement would cause the nurse to suspect that the client may be experiencing PTSD?

A. I believe that I was meant to survive this accident so that I can focus on the important things in life
B. Although I have nightmares sometimes, I have started going to church to show gratitude for surviving the crash
C. I am so afraid that I will never be able to fly again, but I know that it will take a while
D. I keep having these thoughts about the crash that just pop into my mind at random times

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Experiencing intrusive thoughts about a traumatic event, such as a plane crash, that occur unexpectedly and repeatedly is a common symptom of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These thoughts can be distressing and are often a key indicator of PTSD. Options A, B, and C demonstrate coping mechanisms and fears related to the traumatic event but do not specifically address the hallmark symptom of intrusive thoughts. Therefore, option D is the correct choice as it aligns with a potential symptom of PTSD.

2. A healthcare professional is assessing a client diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the healthcare professional expect?

A. Grandiose sense of self-importance
B. Lack of empathy
C. Need for excessive admiration
D. Envy of others

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clients with narcissistic personality disorder often exhibit a grandiose sense of self-importance, believing they are special and unique. This behavior is characterized by an exaggerated sense of achievements and talents, expecting to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements. While individuals with this disorder may lack empathy and have a need for excessive admiration, the prominent feature of grandiosity is a core aspect of narcissistic personality disorder. Therefore, the correct behavior expected in this case is a grandiose sense of self-importance (Choice A). Lack of empathy (Choice B) and need for excessive admiration (Choice C) are also common traits in narcissistic personality disorder, but they are not the primary behavior associated with the disorder. Envy of others (Choice D) is not a characteristic behavior typically seen in individuals with narcissistic personality disorder.

3. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement? Select one that does not apply.

A. Encourage participation in activities
B. Promote adequate nutrition and hydration
C. Monitor for suicidal ideation
D. Discourage verbalization of feelings

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Interventions for a client with bipolar disorder experiencing a depressive episode include encouraging participation in activities, promoting adequate nutrition and hydration, monitoring for suicidal ideation, and providing a structured daily schedule. Discussing feelings is an essential part of therapy for clients with bipolar disorder, thus discouraging verbalization of feelings is not therapeutic and should not be implemented. Choice D is incorrect because it goes against the principles of therapeutic communication and emotional expression, which are crucial in managing bipolar disorder.

4. During a manic episode, which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

A. Encourage group activities to increase socialization.
B. Provide a structured environment with limited stimuli.
C. Allow the patient to engage in physical activities freely.
D. Give the patient detailed and complex tasks to complete.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a manic episode, individuals may experience heightened energy levels and reduced impulse control. Providing a structured environment with limited stimuli is the most appropriate nursing intervention. This approach helps reduce excessive stimulation and potential triggers for further escalation of manic behavior. It promotes a calming and controlled setting, assisting in managing symptoms and promoting the patient's well-being. Encouraging group activities (Choice A) may lead to overstimulation, allowing the patient to engage in physical activities freely (Choice C) could be risky due to impulsivity, and giving detailed tasks (Choice D) might overwhelm the individual.

5. Why is the DSM-5 useful in the practice of psychiatric nursing?

A. It guides the nurse in making accurate and reliable medical diagnoses.
B. It represents progress toward a more holistic view of mind and body.
C. It provides a framework for interdisciplinary communication.
D. It provides a template for nursing care plans.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The DSM-5 is a crucial tool in psychiatric nursing as it guides nurses in making accurate and reliable medical diagnoses of mental health conditions. Using the DSM-5 ensures that diagnoses are standardized, improving the quality and precision of care for clients. While the DSM-5 also supports a holistic view, interdisciplinary communication, and care plan development, its primary role in psychiatric nursing is to assist clinicians in diagnosing mental health conditions accurately.