which of the following is not a cultural aspect of mental illness

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health

1. Which of the following is not a cultural aspect related to mental illness?

A. Local or cultural norms define pathological behavior.
B. The higher the social class, the greater the recognition of mental illness behaviors.
C. Psychiatrists typically see patients when the family can no longer deny the illness.
D. The greater the cultural distance from the mainstream of society, the greater the likelihood that the illness will be treated with sensitivity and compassion.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement in option D is incorrect. The greater the cultural distance from the mainstream of society, the more likely there will be negative responses to mental illness. In such cases, coercive treatments and involuntary hospitalizations are more common, rather than sensitivity and compassion.

2. A client has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should the nurse implement to reduce the client's anxiety?

A. Encourage the client to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
B. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy sessions.
C. Encourage the client to engage in relaxation techniques.
D. Encourage the client to maintain a daily journal.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce anxiety for clients with PTSD. These techniques promote relaxation and help manage stress responses, contributing to a sense of calmness and improved coping mechanisms in dealing with anxiety triggers associated with PTSD. Avoiding discussing the traumatic event (Choice A) may hinder the client's progress in processing and coping with the trauma. While group therapy (Choice B) can be beneficial, relaxation techniques are more specific for reducing anxiety in this context. Maintaining a daily journal (Choice D) may be helpful for some clients but might not directly address anxiety reduction as effectively as relaxation techniques.

3. Therapeutic communication is the foundation of a patient-centered interview. Which of the following techniques is not considered therapeutic?

A. Restating
B. Encouraging description of perception
C. Summarizing
D. Asking 'why' questions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Asking 'why' questions is not considered a therapeutic technique in patient-centered communication as it can make patients feel defensive or judged. 'Why' questions may imply criticism or put the patient on the spot, potentially hindering open and honest communication. Instead, focusing on open-ended questions that encourage patients to express their feelings and thoughts without feeling judged or interrogated is more conducive to therapeutic communication.

4. Which behavior is consistent with therapeutic communication?

A. Offering your opinion when asked to convey support.
B. Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words.
C. Interrupting periods of silence before they become awkward for the patient.
D. Telling the patient they did well when you approve of their statements or actions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words is a key aspect of therapeutic communication as it demonstrates active listening and understanding. It shows the patient that their words have been heard and understood, fostering a sense of validation and empathy. Offering opinions, interrupting silence, or giving approval may not always align with the principles of therapeutic communication, which focus on patient-centered interactions and empathetic responses.

5. 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.