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 RN exams exam guide or more RN 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
While interviewing a client diagnosed with a delusional disorder, the client states, 'I have this really strange odor coming out of my mouth. I stop to brush my teeth almost every hour and then rinse with mouthwash every half hour to get rid of this smell. I've seen so many doctors, and they can't tell me what's wrong.' The nurse interprets the client's statement as reflecting which type of delusion?
A. Erotomanic
B. Grandiose
C. Somatic
D. Jealous
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Somatic
The correct answer is C: Somatic. This is because the client's belief about having a strange odor coming out of their mouth, despite medical professionals not finding any physical cause, aligns with a somatic delusion. Somatic delusions involve false beliefs about one's body, health, or appearance. In this case, the client's preoccupation with the perceived odor falls under the somatic delusion category.
Explanation for other choices:
A: Erotomanic delusions involve the belief that someone, usually of higher status, is in love with the individual. This does not align with the client's statement about the strange odor.
B: Grandiose delusions involve exaggerated beliefs about one's importance, power, or abilities. The client's statement about the strange odor does not reflect grandiosity.
D: Jealous delusions involve unfounded beliefs about a partner's infidelity. This also does not relate to the client's statement about the odor.
Question 2
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 3
After describing the various legislative efforts to address the issue of homelessness in the United States, a nursing instructor determines that the teaching was successful when the students identify which of the following as addressing the need for a continuum of care approach?
A. Bringing Home America Act
B. Affordable Care Act
C. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
D. McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
The correct answer is D: McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This act addresses the need for a continuum of care approach by providing federal funding for homeless assistance programs that offer a range of services to individuals experiencing homelessness. It emphasizes the importance of coordination among various service providers to ensure a seamless transition from emergency shelters to permanent housing.
Choice A: Bringing Home America Act does not specifically focus on homeless assistance programs or the continuum of care approach.
Choice B: Affordable Care Act primarily focuses on healthcare reform and expanding access to healthcare services, not specifically related to addressing homelessness.
Choice C: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act aims to stimulate economic recovery through job creation and infrastructure projects, not directly related to addressing homelessness or providing a continuum of care approach.
Question 4
A new nurse asks the mentor, “How can I be sure I’m developing a therapeutic environment for my unit?” The mentor uses as a basis for the response the fact that a therapeutic milieu is characterized by:
A. Rigid adherence to timelines and unit routine
B. Relaxation of boundaries when doing so is accepted by all
C. Working with a member to help improve their communication skill
D. The focus of the staff is directed to the most critically disturbed patients
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — The focus of the staff is directed to the most critically disturbed patients
A therapeutic milieu is characterized by focusing on the needs and goals of the patients. By establishing specific patient-centered goals that are agreed upon mutually by the patient and the staff, it ensures that the care provided is individualized and tailored to the patient's needs. This approach fosters a collaborative and empowering environment where the patient feels heard and supported in their recovery journey. It also promotes a sense of ownership and accountability for both the patient and the staff in working towards these goals together. In contrast, rigid adherence to timelines and unit routine (option A) may not always take into account the unique needs of each patient, and relaxation of boundaries (option B) can potentially compromise the therapeutic process by blurring professional boundaries. Therefore, establishing patient-centered goals is a key component of creating a therapeutic environment on a nursing unit.
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 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
Correct answer:
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.
A. Safety performance = Ability × Motivation × Opportunity
B. Safety performance = Ability + Motivation + Opportunity
C. Safety performance = Skill + Knowledge + Ability
D. Safety performance = Skill × Knowledge × Ability
Correct answer:
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.
An adult says, "I never know the answers," and "My opinion does not count." Which psychosocial crisis was unsuccessfully resolved for this adult?
A. Initiative versus guilt
B. Trust versus mistrust
C. Autonomy versus shame and doubt
D. Generativity versus self-absorption
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Autonomy versus shame and doubt. This adult's statements indicate feelings of inadequacy and lack of confidence in their own abilities and opinions, which align with the psychosocial crisis of autonomy versus shame and doubt. During this stage, individuals develop a sense of independence and self-confidence. The adult's statements suggest a failure to successfully navigate this crisis, leading to feelings of shame and doubt.
Summary:
A: Initiative versus guilt - This crisis focuses on developing a sense of purpose and direction, not directly related to the adult's statements.
B: Trust versus mistrust - This crisis occurs in infancy and is about developing trust in others, not applicable to the adult's situation.
D: Generativity versus self-absorption - This crisis occurs in middle adulthood, involving concerns about contributing to future generations, not relevant to the adult's feelings of inadequacy.
A female consumer with severe and recurrent mania argues with outpatient staff about her medication. She does not believe she has a mental illness. Although she takes medication during hospitalizations, she stops taking them after discharge. Which intervention is most helpful in promoting medication adherence?
A. Assign a new outpatient staff to reduce the conflicts she is experiencing with her current providers.
B. Explain that the medications will help her and that all medications have side effects, but she can learn to live with these.
C. Involve her in a medication group that will teach her the types and names of psychotropic medications, their purpose, and possible side effects.
D. Explore her perceptions and experiences regarding medication and help her to connect taking medications with achieving her goals.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D because it focuses on exploring the patient's perceptions and experiences regarding medication and linking medication adherence to her personal goals. By understanding the patient's beliefs and motivations, the healthcare provider can tailor interventions to address her specific concerns and increase her willingness to take medication. This approach respects the patient's autonomy and empowers her to make informed decisions about her treatment.
Choice A is incorrect because changing staff members may not address the underlying issues contributing to medication non-adherence. Choice B is not as effective as it focuses solely on explaining the benefits and side effects of medication without considering the patient's individual beliefs and concerns. Choice C, while providing education, does not address the patient's personal experiences and motivations, which are crucial in promoting medication adherence.
Within the context of the culture of poverty, which of the following most clearly describes why individuals who are part of this culture become trapped in a downward economic spiral?
A. Unemployment causes poverty; a lack of willpower and motivation can, in turn, cause unemployment in people who do not have a strong work ethic.
B. Individuals lack the finances to pay rent, so they eventually do not have an address to use in filling out job applications.
C. Characteristics of poverty (joblessness and lack of financial independence) can, in turn, contribute to attributes (feelings of powerlessness and low self-esteem) that sustain poverty.
D. Poverty is passed on from generation to generation; individuals learn at an early age that there is no way to escape living in poverty.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because it highlights the cyclical nature of poverty within the culture of poverty. Joblessness and lack of financial independence are characteristics of poverty that can lead to feelings of powerlessness and low self-esteem, which, in turn, perpetuate the cycle of poverty. This explanation aligns with the concept of the culture of poverty, which suggests that individuals in poverty are trapped in a cycle due to a combination of economic and social factors.
Option A is incorrect because it oversimplifies the issue by focusing solely on individual willpower and motivation, ignoring systemic barriers that contribute to poverty. Option B is incorrect as it emphasizes a single aspect (lack of address for job applications) without addressing the broader cycle of poverty. Option D is incorrect as it suggests that poverty is solely inherited and ignores the role of societal structures in perpetuating poverty.
Graciela is a sixty-three-year-old woman who recently became the primary caregiver for her husband who had a stroke. She tells her husband's nurse that she has been feeling lonely and sad lately and that none of her friends seem to understand what she is going through. What community resource would best benefit Graciela?
A. the local food pantry
B. a rideshare service so the client can get to church
C. a social worker who can assist with subsidized housing
D. a support group for adult caregivers
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: a support group for adult caregivers. Graciela is experiencing feelings of loneliness and sadness due to her new role as a caregiver for her husband. A support group for adult caregivers would provide her with a community of individuals who are going through similar experiences, offering emotional support, understanding, and coping strategies. This resource can help Graciela feel less isolated and more supported in her caregiving journey.
Choice A (the local food pantry) does not address Graciela's emotional needs and is not directly related to her situation as a caregiver. Choice B (a rideshare service) is focused on transportation to church and does not address Graciela's feelings of loneliness and sadness. Choice C (a social worker for subsidized housing) does not specifically address Graciela's emotional well-being and may not provide the necessary support for her current situation as a caregiver.
A nurse is caring for client who is taking levothyroxin. Which of the following findings should indicate that the medication is effective?
A. Weight loss (this drug acts as T4 and will normalize the effects of hypothyroidism)
B. Decreased blood pressure
C. Absence of seizures
D. Decrease inflammation
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Weight loss. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication used to treat hypothyroidism. When the medication is effective, it helps normalize the body's thyroid hormone levels, which can lead to an increase in metabolism and potential weight loss. This is a common therapeutic effect seen in patients with hypothyroidism.
Summary of other choices:
B: Decreased blood pressure - Levothyroxine is not primarily used to treat hypertension, so a decrease in blood pressure would not be a direct indication of the medication's effectiveness.
C: Absence of seizures - Levothyroxine does not directly affect seizure activity, so this would not be a typical indicator of its effectiveness.
D: Decrease inflammation - Levothyroxine is not specifically indicated for reducing inflammation, so a decrease in inflammation would not be a direct measure of the medication's effectiveness in treating hypothyroidism.
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.
Correct answer:
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.
When engaged in rational emotive behavior therapy, which of the following would be addressed during the activating event sequence?
A. Teaching the connection between beliefs and consequences
B. Assessing the consequences of the problem
C. Facilitating the working-through process
D. Preparing patient to deepen conviction in rational beliefs
Correct answer:
Rationale: In rational emotive behavior therapy, the activating event sequence involves identifying the activating event, the beliefs triggered, and the emotional and behavioral consequences. Choice B, assessing the consequences of the problem, is correct as it helps the individual understand the impact of their beliefs and emotions. This step is crucial in identifying irrational beliefs and challenging them. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically address the consequences of the activating event, which is essential in the context of REBT. Choice A focuses on beliefs and consequences, but fails to emphasize the assessment of consequences like choice B. Choice C refers to working through a process, which is too vague and does not specifically target the consequences. Choice D is about preparing the patient to strengthen rational beliefs, which comes after addressing the consequences in the therapy process.
A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a patient who has attempted suicide. Which of the following would the nurse identify as relating to a psychological cause?
A. History of childhood trauma
B. Cluster B personality disorder
C. Social isolation
D. Suicide contagion
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Cluster B personality disorder. This is because personality disorders are deeply ingrained patterns of behavior that cause distress or impairment. Cluster B includes disorders characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic behavior, such as borderline, narcissistic, histrionic, and antisocial personality disorders. Individuals with Cluster B personality disorders may have underlying psychological issues that contribute to suicidal behavior.
A: While a history of childhood trauma can certainly contribute to suicidal ideation, it is not specifically related to a psychological cause in the context of this question.
C: Social isolation can be a risk factor for suicide, but it is not a direct psychological cause.
D: Suicide contagion refers to the phenomenon where exposure to suicide or suicidal behavior influences others to attempt suicide. It is not a psychological cause but rather a social factor.
RN exams mental health practice questions, set 24 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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