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
A child drowned while swimming in a local lake 2 years ago. Which behavior best indicates the child's parents are mourning in an effective way? The parents
A. forbid their other children from going swimming.
B. keep a place set for the deceased child at the family dinner table.
C. sealed their child's room exactly as the child left it 2 years ago.
D. throw flowers on the lake at each anniversary date of the accident.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — throw flowers on the lake at each anniversary date of the accident.
The correct answer is D because throwing flowers on the lake at each anniversary date indicates a healthy way of mourning by honoring and remembering the child in a positive and symbolic manner. It shows an active and ongoing effort to pay tribute to the deceased child while also finding closure.
A: Forbidding other children from swimming may indicate overprotectiveness or fear rather than effective mourning.
B: Keeping a place set for the deceased child at the dinner table could be a constant reminder and hinder the mourning process by not allowing for acceptance and moving on.
C: Sealing the child's room exactly as it was could prevent the parents from processing their grief and moving forward in a healthy manner.
In summary, choice D is the most effective way of mourning as it allows for remembrance, closure, and honoring the deceased child without hindering the grieving process.
Question 2
Select the best outcome for a patient with the nursing diagnosis: "Impaired social interaction related to sociocultural dissonance as evidenced by stating, 'Although I’d like to, I don’t join in because I don’t speak the language very well.'” Patient will:
A. Show improved use of language.
B. Demonstrate improved social skills.
C. Become more independent in decision-making.
D. Select and participate in one group activity per day.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Select and participate in one group activity per day.
The correct answer is D: Select and participate in one group activity per day. This outcome directly addresses the nursing diagnosis of impaired social interaction by encouraging the patient to engage in a specific social activity daily. This goal promotes social interaction, helps the patient overcome language barriers, and gradually enhances their social skills. It provides a structured approach to improve the patient's sociocultural integration.
A: Show improved use of language - This choice focuses solely on language skills but does not directly address the social interaction issue.
B: Demonstrate improved social skills - While this choice is related to the nursing diagnosis, it is too broad and lacks specificity compared to choice D.
C: Become more independent in decision-making - This choice is not directly related to addressing impaired social interaction caused by language barriers.
Question 3
An experienced psychiatric nurse plans to begin a new job in a community-based medication clinic. The clinic sees culturally diverse patients. Which action should the nurse take first to prepare for this position?
A. Investigate cultural differences in patients' responses to psychotropic medications.
B. Contact the clinical nurse specialist for guidelines regarding cultural competence.
C. Examine the literature on various health beliefs of members of diverse cultures.
D. Complete an online continuing education offering about psychopharmacology.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Investigate cultural differences in patients' responses to psychotropic medications.
The correct answer is A: Investigate cultural differences in patients' responses to psychotropic medications. This is the first step the nurse should take to prepare for the new position. Understanding cultural differences in medication responses is crucial for providing safe and effective care. By researching this information, the nurse can tailor treatment plans to individual patients, minimizing risks of adverse reactions and improving outcomes.
The other choices are incorrect because:
B: Contacting the clinical nurse specialist for guidelines is helpful but not the first step. It is important to have a foundational understanding of cultural differences first.
C: Examining literature on health beliefs is valuable but may not directly address medication responses.
D: Completing an online course on psychopharmacology is beneficial but does not specifically focus on cultural considerations.
Question 4
A 14-year-old boy who has been diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter disease reports painful swelling just below the knee for the past 5 months. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
A. If these symptoms persist, you may need arthroscopic surgery.'
B. You are experiencing degeneration of your knee, which may not resolve.'
C. Your disease is due to repeated stress on the patellar tendon. It is usually self-limited, and your symptoms should resolve with rest.'
D. Increasing your activity and performing knee-strengthening exercises will help decrease the inflammation and maintain mobility in the knee.'
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Your disease is due to repeated stress on the patellar tendon. It is usually self-limited, and your symptoms should resolve with rest.'
The correct answer is C. Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by repeated stress on the patellar tendon during periods of rapid growth. It is usually self-limited and resolves with rest. Here is a step-by-step rationale for why this answer is correct:
1. Osgood-Schlatter disease is commonly seen in adolescents during growth spurts.
2. The pain and swelling just below the knee in this 14-year-old boy are typical symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease.
3. Rest is the mainstay of treatment for Osgood-Schlatter disease as it allows the inflamed area to heal.
4. The symptoms should improve once the growth spurt is over and the stress on the patellar tendon decreases.
5. Surgery is rarely needed for Osgood-Schlatter disease unless conservative measures fail.
In summary, choice C is correct because it addresses the self-limiting nature of Osgood-Schlatter disease and emphasizes the importance of rest
Question 5
Carolina is surprised when her patient does not show for a regularly scheduled appointment. When contacted, the patient states, 'I don't need to come see you anymore. I have found a therapy app on my phone that I love.' How should Carolina respond to this news?
A. That sounds exciting, would you be willing to visit and show me the app?
B. At this time, there is no real evidence that the app can replace our therapy.
C. I am not sure that is a good idea right now, we are so close to progress.
D. Why would you think that is a better option than meeting with me?
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — That sounds exciting, would you be willing to visit and show me the app?
The correct answer is A because Carolina should show genuine interest in the patient's decision and willingness to learn more about the therapy app. This approach demonstrates empathy, openness to new technologies, and a collaborative attitude. It also allows Carolina to explore the app's features, efficacy, and potential benefits for the patient's treatment. By engaging with the patient in this way, Carolina can better understand the patient's perspective and tailor her approach accordingly.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they either dismiss the patient's choice outright (B), express reluctance without further exploration (C), or come off as confrontational (D). These responses may alienate the patient, hinder the therapeutic relationship, and impede progress. It's essential for Carolina to maintain a supportive and client-centered approach in addressing the patient's decision.
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Question 6
A nursing instructor is preparing a presentation about key events and people that influenced the development of contemporary mental health and illness care. When describing the effects of World War II, which of the following would the instructor include?
A. People began to view mental illness as more commonplace and acceptable.
B. The biologic understanding of mental illness was almost fully developed.
C. Deinstitutionalization occurred in response to the community health movement.
D. Mental illnesses became categorized as psychoses or neuroses.
Correct answer:
Step 1: During World War II, many soldiers experienced mental health issues, leading to increased awareness and acceptance of mental illness as commonplace.
Step 2: The societal impact of witnessing the psychological effects of war shifted attitudes towards mental health.
Step 3: This increased acceptance paved the way for advancements in mental health care and reduced stigma.
Step 4: Choice A is correct as it reflects the societal shift towards viewing mental illness as more common and acceptable.
Summary:
Choice B is incorrect as the biologic understanding of mental illness was not fully developed during World War II.
Choice C is incorrect as deinstitutionalization was a later phenomenon, not directly related to the effects of World War II.
Choice D is incorrect as the categorization of mental illnesses as psychoses or neuroses predates World War II and was not a direct effect of the war.
A nurse's friend is considering going into forensic nursing and asks the nurse to explain the connection between mental illness and being convicted of a crime. Which response by the nurse would be most accurate?
A. Mentally ill men are less likely than non​mentally ill men to be convicted of a crime.
B. Mentally ill women are less likely than non​mentally ill women to be convicted of a crime.
C. Women who are incarcerated are more likely to receive mental health services than men.
D. African American offenders often receive more mental health treatment than other offenders.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because women who are incarcerated are more likely to receive mental health services than men. This is because women in the criminal justice system often have higher rates of mental health issues compared to men. Providing mental health services to incarcerated women can help address underlying issues contributing to their criminal behavior and aid in their rehabilitation.
Choice A is incorrect as mentally ill men are actually more likely to be convicted of a crime due to various factors such as lack of access to mental health services, stigma, and social circumstances. Choice B is incorrect as it generalizes without considering various factors affecting the likelihood of conviction for mentally ill women. Choice D is incorrect as it makes a broad statement about African American offenders without considering the individualized mental health needs of each offender.
Which nursing intervention within the community is aimed at reducing the residual defects that are associated with severe or chronic mental illness?
A. Referring clients for various aftercare services such as day treatment programs.
B. Providing care for individuals in whom mental illness symptoms have been assessed.
C. Providing education and support to women entering the workforce.
D. Teaching concepts of mental health to various groups within the community.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A because referring clients for aftercare services like day treatment programs can provide ongoing support and resources for managing severe or chronic mental illness, aiming to reduce residual defects. This intervention helps individuals access specialized care and therapies that target their specific needs, promoting recovery and minimizing long-term consequences.
Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on providing care after assessing symptoms, which may not necessarily address residual defects associated with severe or chronic mental illness. Choice C is incorrect as it targets a different population and goal unrelated to reducing residual defects in severe mental illness. Choice D is incorrect as teaching mental health concepts to groups in the community may raise awareness but does not directly address reducing residual defects in severe or chronic mental illness.
A homeless client who reports feeling sad and depressed tells the mental health nurse that in the past 2 days she has only had 4 hours of sleep. Which action is most important for the RN to implement within the first 24 hours after treatment is initiated?
A. Allow the client to rest and sleep.
B. Ensure the client attends groups addressing coping skills for dealing with depression.
C. Begin planning for the client's discharge.
D. Encourage verbalization of feelings.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Allow the client to rest and sleep. This is the most important action because sleep deprivation can exacerbate feelings of sadness and depression. By prioritizing rest and sleep within the first 24 hours, the nurse can address the immediate physical and emotional needs of the client. This action can help improve the client's overall well-being and mental health.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect:
- B: Ensuring the client attends groups addressing coping skills for dealing with depression is important but not the most critical within the first 24 hours. Rest and sleep should be prioritized initially.
- C: Planning for the client's discharge is premature and not a priority when the client is in immediate distress.
- D: Encouraging verbalization of feelings is important for therapeutic communication but addressing sleep deprivation takes precedence in this scenario.
Madelyn, a 29-year-old patient recently diagnosed with depression, comes to the mental health clinic complaining of continued difficulty sleeping. One week ago she was started on a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRRI), fluoxetine (Prozac), for her depressive symptoms. When educating Madelyn your response is guided by the knowledge that:
A. SSRIs such as fluoxetine more commonly cause hypersomnolence as opposed to difficulty sleeping.
B. The sleep problem is caused by the depression and is unrelated to the medication.
C. The neurotransmitters involved in sleep and wakefulness are the same neurotransmitters targeted by many psychiatric medications and the problem may be temporary.
D. The medication should be discontinued since sleep is the most important element to her recovery.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because neurotransmitters involved in sleep and wakefulness are targeted by many psychiatric medications, including SSRIs like fluoxetine. The difficulty sleeping may be a temporary side effect as Madelyn's body adjusts to the medication. This explanation is supported by the fact that changes in neurotransmitter levels can impact sleep patterns.
Choice A is incorrect because while SSRIs can cause side effects like hypersomnolence, difficulty sleeping is also a known side effect.
Choice B is incorrect because while depression can affect sleep, starting a new medication like fluoxetine can also impact sleep patterns.
Choice D is incorrect because discontinuing the medication without consulting a healthcare provider can have negative consequences for Madelyn's mental health. Addressing the sleep issue through education and monitoring is a more appropriate approach.
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder does not interact with others except when addressed, and then only in monosyllables. The nurse wants to show nonjudgmental acceptance and support for the patient. Which communication technique will be effective?
A. Make observations.
B. Ask the patient direct questions.
C. Phrase questions to require yes or no answers.
D. Frequently reassure the patient to reduce guilt feelings.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Make observations. This technique is effective because it allows the nurse to show nonjudgmental acceptance and support without pressuring the patient to engage in lengthy conversations. By making observations, the nurse can acknowledge the patient's behavior without requiring a response, thus respecting the patient's need for space and limited interaction.
Option B: Asking the patient direct questions may feel intrusive and overwhelming for someone with major depressive disorder who is withdrawn.
Option C: Phrasing questions to require yes or no answers limits the patient's ability to express themselves fully and may not promote a sense of support and acceptance.
Option D: Frequently reassuring the patient to reduce guilt feelings may come across as insincere or patronizing, and may not address the patient's need for nonjudgmental acceptance in communication.
A group of nursing students are reviewing the standards of professional performance. The students demonstrate understanding when they identify which as a standard of professional performance?
A. Prescriptive authority
B. Consultation
C. Planning
D. Collegiality
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Collegiality. Collegiality is a standard of professional performance that involves working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, showing respect, and fostering a positive work environment. It is essential for effective teamwork and patient care outcomes.
A: Prescriptive authority is not a standard of professional performance but rather a specific legal authorization to prescribe medications or treatments.
B: Consultation is an important aspect of professional practice but does not directly relate to the standards of professional performance.
C: Planning is a necessary skill in nursing practice but is not specifically a standard of professional performance.
In summary, collegiality is the correct answer as it directly relates to professional behavior and teamwork, while the other choices are not specifically standards of professional performance.
In what order should the following goals be approached for a client being treated for alcoholism?
A. Learning about dependence and recovery; abstinence and development of a support system; attaining physiological stabilization; developing alternative coping skills
B. Developing alternative coping skills; attaining physiological stabilization; learning about dependence and recovery; abstinence and development of a support system
C. Abstinence and development of a support system; attaining physiological stabilization; learning about dependence and recovery; developing alternative coping skills
D. Abstinence and development of a support system; learning about dependence and recovery; attaining physiological stabilization; developing alternative coping skills
Correct answer:
When treating a client for alcoholism, it is important to follow a structured approach to maximize treatment effectiveness. The correct order of approaching goals is to first help the client in developing alternative coping skills to manage triggers and stressors without relying on alcohol. This is followed by attaining physiological stabilization, which involves addressing any physical health issues related to alcoholism. Next, the client should learn about dependence and recovery to understand the nature of their condition and the process of recovery. Finally, the goals of abstinence and developing a support system come into play to ensure long-term sobriety and a reliable network of support. Therefore, the correct order is: Developing alternative coping skills; attaining physiological stabilization; learning about dependence and recovery; abstinence and development of a support system.
The nurse is caring for a client in the neighborhood clinic. The client tells the nurse that ever since he was an adolescent, he has avoided social situations because he has 'one ear that is obviously bigger than the other ear.' The nurse observes that one of the client's ears does not appear to be larger than the other ear. The nurse suspects that the client may be experiencing which of the following?
A. Complex somatic symptom disorder
B. Functional neurologic symptoms
C. Factitious disorder
D. Body dysmorphic disorder
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Body dysmorphic disorder. Body dysmorphic disorder is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with a perceived flaw in physical appearance that is not observable or appears minor to others. In this scenario, the client's belief that one ear is significantly larger than the other, when it is not observable to the nurse, aligns with symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder. This disorder often leads to significant distress and impaired social functioning.
A: Complex somatic symptom disorder involves a preoccupation with physical symptoms, but the client's concern is about appearance, not physical symptoms.
B: Functional neurologic symptoms involve neurological symptoms without a known neurological condition, which is not evident in this case.
C: Factitious disorder involves fabricating or exaggerating symptoms for psychological reasons, which is not the case here.
The patient and the nurse have agreed on problems to be addressed during a short course of outpatient therapy. At the beginning of the appointment, the patient states, “I’d like to work on the issue of relationships today.” Which assessment can be made?
A. The nurse should suggest several alternative behaviors.
B. The patient must be able to manage emotions before continuing.
C. The relationship is moving from orientation to working phase.
Correct answer:
The correct assessment to be made in this scenario is that the relationship is moving from the orientation phase to the working phase. In the orientation phase of the nurse-patient therapeutic relationship, the focus is on building rapport, establishing trust, and determining the patient's needs and goals. As the patient voluntarily expresses a desire to work on the issue of relationships, it indicates a transition to the working phase where the patient actively identifies problems to address and goals to achieve. This shift demonstrates progress in the therapeutic relationship as the patient is engaging in the therapeutic process and contributing to the agenda set for the appointment. It signifies a readiness for collaborative problem solving and intervention planning, emphasizing the importance of the patient's involvement in decision-making and goal-setting in the therapeutic process.
RN exams mental health practice questions, set 33 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
No. Nursier is independent practice. Register through the official path named on the RN exams exam guide.
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.
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.
