You choose the therapeutic response, the safety priority, and the cue that means the patient is getting worse. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the LPN exams exam guide or more LPN exams practice questions.
Five mental health questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
A nurse is educating a group of caregivers about Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED). What is a characteristic feature of DSED?
A. Emotionally withdrawn behavior.
B. Lack of social skills.
C. Selective attachment to caregivers.
D. Fear of strangers.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Selective attachment to caregivers.
Choice A rationale: Emotionally withdrawn behavior is not a characteristic feature of Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED). DSED typically involves overly familiar behavior, not withdrawal. Choice B rationale: Lack of social skills could be a consequence of DSED, but it's not the primary characteristic feature. The main hallmark of DSED is an indiscriminate and overly friendly approach to both familiar and unfamiliar individuals. Choice C rationale: Selective attachment to caregivers is a characteristic feature of DSED. Children with this disorder may have a lack of appropriate wariness and show indiscriminate social behavior towards people they have no reason to trust, which contrasts with a typical development of forming attachments. Choice D rationale: Fear of strangers is not a characteristic feature of DSED. In fact, children with DSED often lack this fear and readily engage with strangers without appropriate caution.
Question 2
An 11-year-old diagnosed with ODD becomes angry over the rules at a residential treatment program and begins shouting at the nurse. What is the nurse's initial action to defuse the situation?
A. Say to the child, 'Tell me how you're feeling right now.'
B. Take the child swimming at the facility's pool.
C. Establish a behavioral contract with the child.
D. Administer an anxiolytic medication.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Take the child swimming at the facility's pool.
The correct initial action for the nurse to defuse the situation with the 11-year-old diagnosed with ODD is to take the child swimming at the facility's pool (Choice B). This action can help the child release pent-up emotions through physical activity, providing a positive outlet for their anger. Swimming can also have a calming effect on the child's nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. By engaging in a fun and physical activity, the child may be able to regulate their emotions and behavior more effectively than discussing feelings or establishing a behavioral contract in the heat of the moment. Administering an anxiolytic medication (Choice D) should not be the initial response as it does not address the root cause of the behavior, and it is important to try non-pharmacological interventions first. Choices A and C may be helpful in the long term but are not as immediate or appropriate in this situation.
Question 3
What equation defines safety performance?
A. Safety performance = Ability × Motivation × Opportunity
B. Safety performance = Ability + Motivation + Opportunity
C. Safety performance = Skill + Knowledge + Ability
D. Safety performance = Skill × Knowledge × Ability
The correct answer is A because safety performance is influenced by the interaction of Ability, Motivation, and Opportunity. Ability represents the skills and knowledge to perform safely, Motivation reflects the willingness and drive to prioritize safety, and Opportunity refers to the resources and support available to maintain a safe environment. Multiplying these factors signifies their combined effect on safety performance.
Option B (Ability + Motivation + Opportunity) is incorrect as it implies a simple addition of factors, which does not capture the interconnected nature of these components. Option C (Skill + Knowledge + Ability) is incorrect as it fails to include Motivation and Opportunity, which are crucial aspects of safety performance. Option D (Skill x Knowledge x Ability) is incorrect as it focuses solely on individual attributes rather than considering the dynamic interplay of Ability, Motivation, and Opportunity.
Question 4
A patient is admitted with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. The nurse identifies that the patient is experiencing low energy, poor concentration, and feelings of hopelessness. Which intervention is most appropriate?
A. Administering a sedative medication to help the patient rest
B. Providing reassurance that these feelings will pass
C. Encouraging the patient to engage in small activities and gradually increase participation
D. Promoting rest and limiting stimulation
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Encouraging the patient to engage in small activities and gradually increase participation
The correct answer is C because encouraging the patient to engage in small activities and gradually increase participation aligns with the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression. This intervention helps the patient combat feelings of hopelessness and low energy by promoting a sense of accomplishment and increasing activity levels. It also addresses poor concentration by breaking tasks into manageable steps.
Choice A is incorrect because administering a sedative medication does not address the underlying issues of depression and may mask symptoms temporarily without providing long-term benefits. Choice B is incorrect because while providing reassurance is important, it alone may not be sufficient to address the patient's symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because promoting rest and limiting stimulation may exacerbate feelings of isolation and further contribute to the patient's low energy and hopelessness.
Question 5
Noah has made it clear he doesn't want to talk about his dad. But the truth is, as the interview proceeds, he becomes anxious and tries to evade all questions about why he is here. Which type of communication might be most appropriate right now?
A. Stop questioning so much and just give him some good advice so he’ll trust you.
B. Express honest disapproval of his resistance to help.
C. Ask him pointblank why he is evading you.
D. Ask a miracle question.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Ask a miracle question.
The correct answer is D: Ask a miracle question. This type of communication technique is appropriate because it allows Noah to envision a positive future without directly probing into his personal issues, which might make him uncomfortable. By asking a miracle question, such as "If you woke up tomorrow and everything was better, what would be different?" it can help Noah open up about his concerns in a more indirect and non-confrontational way. This can build trust and rapport with Noah, as it shows that you are empathetic and focused on helping him envision a solution to his problems.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they are more direct approaches that may increase Noah's anxiety and resistance. Giving advice without understanding the full context of his situation (Choice A), expressing disapproval (Choice B), or asking a blunt question (Choice C) may lead to further avoidance and hinder the communication process.
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Question 6
A patient is receiving aripiprazole. Which nursing intervention(s) will the nurse include in the patient’s care plan? (Select all that apply.)
A. Administer before meals on an empty stomach to facilitate absorption.
B. Remain with the patient until medication is swallowed.
C. Monitor vital signs to detect orthostatic hypotension.
D. Assess the patient for evidence of neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Remain with the patient until medication is swallowed. This intervention is important to ensure medication compliance and prevent cheeking or hoarding of the medication. By staying with the patient until the medication is swallowed, the nurse can confirm that the full dose is taken, reducing the risk of treatment failure.
Choice A is incorrect because aripiprazole can be taken with or without food, so administering it before meals on an empty stomach is not necessary for absorption. Choice C is incorrect because while monitoring vital signs is important when administering aripiprazole, it is primarily to detect side effects such as tachycardia rather than orthostatic hypotension specifically. Choice D is incorrect because while assessing for neuroleptic malignant syndrome is important with antipsychotic medications, it is not a specific nursing intervention related to aripiprazole administration.
A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a patient who is newly diagnosed with diabetes. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates that the teaching was effective?
A. I will need to take insulin injections every day.
B. I need to monitor my blood glucose levels regularly.
C. I can stop my diabetes medications after a few weeks.
D. I don't need to worry about my diet as long as I take my medications.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: "I need to monitor my blood glucose levels regularly." This statement indicates effective teaching because monitoring blood glucose levels is essential for managing diabetes. Regular monitoring helps the patient understand how their body responds to food, exercise, and medications. It allows for adjustments in the treatment plan to maintain blood sugar levels within target range.
A: Taking insulin injections daily may be necessary for some patients with diabetes, but this alone does not indicate effective teaching as monitoring blood glucose levels is also critical.
C: Stopping diabetes medications without healthcare provider's guidance can be dangerous and indicates a lack of understanding about the chronic nature of diabetes.
D: Neglecting diet and relying solely on medications is not an effective approach to managing diabetes. Diet plays a crucial role in controlling blood sugar levels.
Which one of the following BEST describes the FIRST step that a physical therapist should take when integrating best evidence into clinical practice?
A. Identify current best evidence on the most successful interventions for the patient's diagnosis.
B. Mine the available data and critically appraise the evidence for its validity, level of evidence, and applicability.
C. Integrate the best evidence into clinical decision making after discussing it with the patient.
D. Identify a clinically relevant question that is important for the patient.
Correct answer:
Step-by-step rationale for why answer D is correct:
1. Identifying a clinically relevant question is crucial for guiding the integration of evidence into practice.
2. This step ensures that the evidence sought aligns with the specific needs and concerns of the patient.
3. By focusing on the patient's individual situation, the therapist can tailor the evidence-based interventions effectively.
4. It sets the foundation for a patient-centered approach to care, enhancing clinical decision-making.
5. Overall, starting with a clinically relevant question is the essential first step in evidence-based practice.
Summary:
A: Identifying current best evidence is premature without understanding the patient's specific needs.
B: Critically appraising evidence comes after identifying the question to ensure relevance.
C: Discussing evidence with the patient is important but should follow after identifying the relevant question.
A male client who is admitted with delirium tremens is dehydrated and experiencing auditory hallucinations. He has a bruised, swollen tongue and is confused. In developing a plan of care, which action should the nurse include to ensure the client is physiologically stable?
A. Monitor vital signs.
B. Administer PRN antipsychotic medication.
C. Provide a quiet environment.
D. Encourage fluid intake.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Monitor vital signs. This is crucial in managing a client with delirium tremens to ensure physiological stability. Monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate can help identify any signs of deterioration or complications like dehydration, sepsis, or cardiovascular instability. By closely monitoring these parameters, the nurse can intervene promptly and prevent any further complications.
Summary:
- Option B is incorrect because administering antipsychotic medication is not the priority in managing delirium tremens.
- Option C is incorrect as providing a quiet environment may help with managing hallucinations, but it does not address the physiological stability of the client.
- Option D is incorrect as encouraging fluid intake is important for hydration but does not address the need for monitoring vital signs to ensure physiological stability.
When developing a care plan for a patient with borderline personality disorder, which intervention should be included to address self-harm behaviors?
A. Encouraging the patient to keep a journal of their thoughts and feelings.
B. Setting clear and consistent boundaries with the patient.
C. Providing the patient with coping skills to manage their emotions.
D. Developing a safety plan with the patient.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D, developing a safety plan with the patient. This intervention is crucial for addressing self-harm behaviors in patients with borderline personality disorder. A safety plan helps the patient identify triggers, warning signs, coping strategies, and support networks to prevent self-harm. It also outlines specific steps to take in a crisis situation. This intervention is more direct and practical compared to the other options.
A: Keeping a journal may be helpful for self-reflection but may not provide immediate strategies to prevent self-harm.
B: Setting boundaries is important but may not directly address self-harm behaviors.
C: Providing coping skills is beneficial, but a safety plan is more specific and tailored to managing self-harm risks.
In summary, developing a safety plan is the most effective intervention for addressing self-harm behaviors in patients with borderline personality disorder.
A 15-year-old ran away from home six times and was arrested for shoplifting. The parents told the Court, 'We can't manage our teenager.' The adolescent is physically abusive to the mother and defiant with the father. Which diagnosis is supported by this adolescent's behavior?
A. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
B. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
C. Intermittent explosive disorder
D. CD
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Conduct Disorder (CD). The given scenario describes a pattern of persistent behavior that violates the rights of others and societal norms, such as running away, shoplifting, and being physically abusive. CD is characterized by aggression, rule-breaking, and disregard for others' feelings and rights. This diagnosis aligns with the adolescent's behavior of being defiant and physically abusive towards the parents. ADHD (A) primarily involves symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which are not the primary features displayed in this case. PTSD (B) results from exposure to traumatic events, which are not explicitly mentioned in the scenario. Intermittent Explosive Disorder (C) involves recurrent behavioral outbursts, often involving aggression, that are out of proportion to the situation, which does not fully capture the range of behaviors exhibited by the adolescent in this case.
The school nurse has been alerted to the fact that an 8-year-old boy routinely playacts as a police officer 'locking up' other children on the playground to the point where the children get scared. The nurse recognizes that this behavior is most likely an indication of:
A. The need to dominate others
B. Inventing traumatic events
C. A need to develop close relationships
D. A potential symptom of traumatization
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D, as playacting as a police officer and causing fear in other children could be a potential symptom of traumatization. This behavior may stem from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, leading the child to reenact them to make sense of their feelings and gain a sense of control. The child may be processing feelings of powerlessness or fear related to trauma through this play.
A: The need to dominate others - While the behavior may involve exerting control, it is more likely a coping mechanism for trauma rather than a desire to dominate.
B: Inventing traumatic events - There is no indication that the child is inventing traumatic events; rather, the behavior suggests a response to real trauma.
C: A need to develop close relationships - The behavior is not indicative of seeking close relationships but rather a way of expressing distress and trying to make sense of traumatic experiences.
A client is admitted to the mental health unit and sits in the corner of the dayroom. When the nurse begins the admission assessment interview, the client is guarded, suspicious, and resists talking. What action should the nurse implement?
A. Attempt to ask the client simple questions.
B. Postpone the client interview until the next day.
C. Ask another nurse to talk with the client.
D. Document the client's paranoid behavior.
Correct answer:
The correct action for the nurse to implement is to attempt to ask the client simple questions (Choice A). By asking simple questions, the nurse can start building rapport with the client and gradually gain their trust. This approach can help the client feel more comfortable and open up during the assessment interview. It is important for the nurse to demonstrate patience, empathy, and understanding towards the client's guarded and suspicious behavior.
Postponing the client interview until the next day (Choice B) may not address the client's current needs and may lead to further distrust. Asking another nurse to talk with the client (Choice C) may not necessarily be effective as the client may benefit from continuity of care with the same nurse. Documenting the client's paranoid behavior (Choice D) is important for the client's medical record but should not be the only action taken by the nurse in this situation.
Which one of the following positions is recommended for obtaining consistent blood pressure measurements?
A. Sitting with the arm in a horizontal, supported position at heart level
B. Supine position with arm resting comfortably on the chest
C. Sitting on the couch with arm resting comfortably by the side
D. Standing with arm by side and cuff positioned at heart level
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A. Sitting with the arm in a horizontal, supported position at heart level is recommended for consistent blood pressure measurements because it helps reduce errors due to gravitational effects. Placing the arm at heart level minimizes the hydrostatic pressure changes, ensuring accurate readings. This position also allows for proper cuff placement and comfortable arm support, leading to more reliable results.
Summary:
Choice B (Supine position with arm resting comfortably on the chest) may lead to inaccurate readings due to the arm position not being at heart level. Choice C (Sitting on the couch with arm resting comfortably by the side) lacks the necessary arm support and heart level positioning, leading to potential errors. Choice D (Standing with arm by side and cuff positioned at heart level) may result in fluctuating readings due to the effect of gravity on blood pressure when standing.
The RN leading a group session of adolescent clients gives the members a handout about anger management. One of the male clients is fidgety, interrupts peers when they try to talk, and talks about his pets at home. What nursing action is best for the RN to take?
A. Explore the client's feelings about his pets and home life.
B. Encourage his peers to help involve him in the activity.
C. Give the client permission to leave and return in 10 minutes.
D. Redirect him by encouraging him to read from the handout.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Redirect him by encouraging him to read from the handout. This is the best nursing action because it addresses the client's disruptive behavior by redirecting his focus back to the topic at hand, which is anger management. By encouraging him to read from the handout, the RN is helping the client engage in the intended activity and stay on track with the group session's purpose. This approach helps maintain the group's cohesion and ensures that all members benefit from the session.
Exploring the client's feelings about his pets and home life (Choice A) may be relevant in a different context but is not the immediate priority in this scenario. Encouraging his peers to involve him in the activity (Choice B) may not effectively address his disruptive behavior. Giving the client permission to leave and return (Choice C) may disrupt the session and enable the client's avoidance of the activity.
LPN exams mental health practice questions, set 9 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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The first five questions already include the rationale. Start full practice to unlock the remaining keys, missed-question review, and the rest of the bank.
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