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 nurse is caring for four clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse care for first?
A. A client to receive a chemotherapy treatment
B. A client who has an appendectomy and diminished bowel sounds
C. A client with hypothyroidism and is stuporous
D. A client who is a burn requiring a sterile dressing change.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — A client who is a burn requiring a sterile dressing change.
The correct answer is D because the client requiring a sterile dressing change for a burn has the highest priority due to the risk of infection and potential complications. Sterile technique is crucial to prevent infections in burn wounds. Burn injuries can lead to sepsis if not properly managed. Clients receiving chemotherapy (Choice A) may require careful monitoring but do not have an immediate risk of infection like the burn client. A client who has had an appendectomy and has diminished bowel sounds (Choice B) may indicate a potential complication but is not as urgent as managing a burn wound. A client with hypothyroidism and stupor (Choice C) may require intervention but does not pose an immediate threat to life like a burn wound needing a sterile dressing change.
Question 2
Obesity can be the end result of a binge-eating disorder. The nurse understands that the best treatment option in persons with a binge-eating disorder promotes:
A. Bariatric surgery
B. Coping strategies
C. Avoidance of public eating
D. Appetite suppression medications
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Coping strategies
The correct answer is B: Coping strategies. The best treatment option for persons with a binge-eating disorder focuses on addressing the underlying emotional issues that contribute to the disorder. Coping strategies help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and other triggers that lead to binge eating. This approach aims to break the cycle of emotional eating and promote healthier eating habits. Bariatric surgery (A) is not typically recommended for individuals with binge-eating disorder as it does not address the psychological aspects of the condition. Avoidance of public eating (C) may temporarily reduce triggers but does not address the root cause. Appetite suppression medications (D) do not address the underlying emotional issues and can have potential side effects.
Question 3
A black patient says to a white nurse, "There's no sense talking about how I feel. You wouldn't understand because you live in a white worl" The nurse's best action would be to
A. explain, "Yes, I do understan Everyone goes through the same experiences."
B. say, "Please give an example of something you think I wouldn't understan"
C. reassure the patient that nurses interact with people from all cultures.
D. change the subject to one that is less emotionally disturbing.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — say, "Please give an example of something you think I wouldn't understan"
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
1. Option B promotes active listening and encourages the patient to express their feelings further.
2. By asking for specific examples, the nurse shows genuine interest in understanding the patient's perspective.
3. This approach helps build trust and rapport, leading to better communication and a more effective therapeutic relationship.
Summary of Other Choices:
A: This response dismisses the patient's concerns and lacks empathy, which may lead to further feelings of isolation.
C: While this response acknowledges diversity, it does not address the patient's specific feelings and may come across as deflecting the issue.
D: Changing the subject avoids addressing the patient's concerns and may lead to a breakdown in communication and trust.
Question 4
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is about to be discharged and is facing the stressor of acquiring independent employment. Using a behavioral approach, which nursing intervention is most appropriate in meeting this client's needs?
A. Teaching the client to"thought block" auditory hallucinations.
B. Role-playing a job interview with the client.
C. Advocating with the discharge planner to provide adequate housing.
D. Discussing the use of prn medications to decrease stress before the interview.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Role-playing a job interview with the client.
The correct answer is B: Role-playing a job interview with the client. This intervention aligns with the behavioral approach by providing the client with practical skills to address the stressor of acquiring independent employment. Role-playing allows the client to practice and improve their interview skills, enhancing their confidence and ability to secure a job.
A: Teaching the client to "thought block" auditory hallucinations is more aligned with cognitive-behavioral approaches and not directly related to employment needs.
C: Advocating for adequate housing is important but not directly addressing the client's need for employment.
D: Discussing the use of prn medications focuses on symptom management rather than improving the client's ability to secure employment.
Question 5
A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder is being educated by a nurse about the use of antidepressants. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
A. I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
B. It may take several weeks for the medication to take effect.
C. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
D. I should not discontinue the medication abruptly.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
The correct answer is C. The client stating, 'I can stop taking my medication once I feel better,' indicates a need for further teaching. It is crucial for clients with major depressive disorder to understand that they should continue taking their medication as prescribed even if they start feeling better. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to a relapse of symptoms. Choices A, B, and D are correct statements. Avoiding alcohol while taking antidepressants helps prevent interactions and side effects. Understanding that it may take several weeks for the medication to show its full effect is important for managing expectations. Additionally, not discontinuing the medication abruptly is crucial to prevent withdrawal effects or a recurrence of depressive symptoms.
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Question 6
Select the example of primary prevention.
A. Assisting a person diagnosed with a serious mental illness to fill a pill-minder
B. Helping school-age children identify and describe normal emotions
C. Leading a psychoeducational group in a community care home
D. Medicating an acutely ill patient who assaulted a staff person
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B because primary prevention focuses on preventing the development of mental health issues before they occur. Helping school-age children identify and describe normal emotions is an example of primary prevention as it promotes emotional well-being and prevents future mental health problems.
Choice A is incorrect because it involves assisting someone who is already diagnosed with a mental illness, which is more of a secondary prevention approach. Choice C involves providing education and support to individuals already in a care home, which falls under secondary prevention. Choice D involves medicating an acutely ill patient, which is more of a tertiary prevention approach aimed at managing existing conditions and preventing further complications.
How would a nurse differentiate a client diagnosed with panic disorder from a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
A. GAD is acute in nature, and panic disorder is chronic.
B. Chest pain is a common GAD symptom, whereas this symptom is absent in panic disorders.
C. Hyperventilation is a common symptom in GAD and rare in panic disorder.
D. Depersonalization is commonly seen in panic disorder and absent in GAD.
Correct answer:
One key way a nurse can differentiate a client diagnosed with panic disorder from a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is by observing the presence of depersonalization. Depersonalization, which is the feeling of being detached from oneself or feeling like things are unreal, is commonly seen in panic disorder and absent in GAD. Clients with panic disorder often experience sudden, intense episodes of anxiety known as panic attacks, during which depersonalization may occur. In contrast, GAD is characterized by persistent and excessive worry or anxiety about various aspects of life, but depersonalization is not a hallmark symptom of GAD. This distinction can aid the nurse in making an accurate diagnosis and providing appropriate care for the client.
A nurse is assessing a patient who is experiencing depression. Which of the following is a common symptom of depression?
A. Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
B. Excessive energy and restlessness
C. Rapid speech and racing thoughts
D. Increased appetite and weight gain
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. This is a common symptom of depression as individuals with depression often experience persistent negative thoughts about themselves and their situation. This symptom is a key indicator used in diagnosing depression.
B: Excessive energy and restlessness is not a common symptom of depression. In fact, individuals with depression often experience fatigue and lack of energy.
C: Rapid speech and racing thoughts are more commonly associated with conditions like mania or anxiety disorders, not depression.
D: Increased appetite and weight gain can be a symptom of atypical depression, but it is not a common symptom of depression in general. Weight changes can vary among individuals with depression.
A healthcare provider is assessing a client diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the provider expect the client to exhibit?
A. A lack of remorse for wrongdoing
B. A fear of gaining weight
C. A need for constant reassurance
D. A willingness to take responsibility for actions
Correct answer:
Individuals with antisocial personality disorder typically exhibit a lack of remorse for their actions. They may disregard the rights of others, engage in deceitful and manipulative behaviors, and show a consistent pattern of irresponsibility and disregard for social norms. This behavior is a key characteristic of this disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the typical behaviors associated with antisocial personality disorder. Fear of gaining weight is more indicative of an eating disorder rather than antisocial personality disorder. Needing constant reassurance is not a common trait of individuals with antisocial personality disorder. Additionally, individuals with this disorder often avoid taking responsibility for their actions.
A 77-year-old male client is admitted for elective knee surgery. Physical examination reveals shallow respirations but no sign of respiratory distress. Which of the following is a normal physiologic change related to aging?
A. Increased elastic recoil of the lungs
B. Increased number of functional capillaries in the alveoli
C. Decreased residual volume
D. Decreased vital capacity
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Decreased vital capacity. As individuals age, their vital capacity decreases due to a combination of factors such as reduced lung elasticity, weaker respiratory muscles, and decreased lung compliance. This results in a reduced ability to take deep breaths and expel air efficiently. Shallow respirations in the absence of distress indicate a normal physiological change in this elderly client.
A: Increased elastic recoil of the lungs is incorrect as aging leads to decreased lung elasticity.
B: Increased number of functional capillaries in the alveoli is incorrect as capillary density in the lungs tends to decrease with age.
C: Decreased residual volume is incorrect as residual volume typically increases with age due to reduced lung elasticity.
A nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing withdrawal from alcohol. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse monitor for?
A. Fatigue and lethargy
B. Severe agitation, tremors, and seizures
C. Headaches and nausea
D. Increased appetite and weight gain
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B because severe agitation, tremors, and seizures are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, known as delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening. These symptoms indicate hyperactivity of the central nervous system due to alcohol withdrawal. Monitoring for these symptoms is crucial for early intervention and preventing potential complications.
A: Fatigue and lethargy are not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal.
C: Headaches and nausea are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal but are not indicative of severe withdrawal requiring immediate intervention.
D: Increased appetite and weight gain are not symptoms of alcohol withdrawal; in fact, weight loss is more common due to decreased appetite and malnutrition during withdrawal.
A patient with a history of asthma says, "I’ve been very nervous lately. I think aromatherapy will help. I am ordering $250 worth of oils from an Internet site that promised swift results.” Select the nurse’s best action.
A. Support the patient’s efforts to become informed and to find health solutions.
B. Suggest the patient check with friends who have tried aromatherapy for treatment of anxiety.
C. Remind the patient, "If you spend that much on oils, you may not be able to buy your prescribed medication.”
D. Tell the patient, “Aromatherapy can complicate respiratory problems such as asthma. Let’s consider some other options.”
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D: Tell the patient, “Aromatherapy can complicate respiratory problems such as asthma. Let’s consider some other options.” This is the best action as it addresses the patient's asthma history and concerns about using aromatherapy. It shows the nurse's responsibility to educate the patient about potential risks and explore safer alternatives.
A: Supporting the patient's efforts is important, but in this case, the patient's safety must be prioritized due to the existing health condition.
B: Suggesting to check with friends does not provide reliable information and may delay appropriate intervention.
C: Reminding the patient about medication costs is important, but it does not directly address the potential harm of aromatherapy in this situation.
A patient has been placed in an anger management group because he has trouble controlling his angry outbursts. The nurse interprets this type group as an example of which of the following?
A. Psychotherapy
B. Self-help
C. Psychoeducation
D. Supportive therapy
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Psychoeducation. In an anger management group, the focus is on providing information and teaching strategies to help individuals understand and manage their anger effectively. This aligns with the concept of psychoeducation, which aims to educate individuals about their condition and equip them with skills to cope with it.
A: Psychotherapy typically involves more in-depth exploration of underlying issues and emotions, which may not be the primary focus in an anger management group.
B: Self-help usually refers to individuals independently seeking resources or support outside of a structured group setting.
D: Supportive therapy focuses on providing emotional support rather than specific education or skill-building related to anger management.
A client with a history of bipolar disorder is exhibiting symptoms of mania. Which intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to implement?
A. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy.
B. Provide a calm and structured environment.
C. Limit stimulation and set firm limits on behavior.
D. Promote self-care and hygiene practices.
Correct answer:
When a client with bipolar disorder is experiencing symptoms of mania, the most appropriate intervention for the nurse is to limit stimulation and set firm limits on behavior. This approach helps in managing the manic episode by preventing further escalation. Encouraging participation in group therapy (Choice A) may not be effective during the acute phase of mania, as the client may have difficulty focusing or following group discussions. Providing a calm and structured environment (Choice B) is beneficial, but setting firm limits is crucial to managing the impulsivity and risky behaviors associated with mania. Promoting self-care practices (Choice D) is important, but during a manic episode, setting limits and reducing stimuli take precedence over hygiene practices.
A new psychiatric nurse states, This clients use of defense mechanisms should be eliminated. Which is a correct evaluation of this nurses statement?
A. Defense mechanisms can be self-protective responses to stress and need not be eliminated.
B. Defense mechanisms are a maladaptive attempt of the ego to manage anxiety and should always be eliminated.
C. Defense mechanisms, used by individuals with weak ego integrity, should be discouraged and not eliminated.
D. Defense mechanisms cause disintegration of the ego and should be fostered and encouraged.
Correct answer:
Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies that individuals unconsciously use to cope with stress, anxiety, and threats to their self-esteem. It is not necessary to eliminate defense mechanisms entirely, as they can serve as adaptive responses to protect oneself in certain situations. While some defense mechanisms can be maladaptive or harmful if used excessively, it is essential to understand that addressing the root causes of the underlying issues that trigger the use of defense mechanisms is more important than simply trying to eradicate them. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and providing appropriate support and interventions can help individuals develop resilience and better ways of managing stress without completely eliminating all defense mechanisms.
RN exams mental health practice questions, set 41 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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