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 male client comes to the emergency center with an erection that will not resolve. The client reports that he is taking trazodone (Desyrel) for insomnia. Which information is most important for the nurse to ask this client?
A. Have you taken any medication for erectile dysfunction?
B. Are you experiencing any other sexual dysfunctions or problems?
C. When was the last time you consumed an alcoholic beverage?
D. Do you have a history of angina or high blood pressure?
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Are you experiencing any other sexual dysfunctions or problems?
In this scenario, the most important question for the nurse to ask the client is whether he is experiencing any other sexual dysfunctions or problems. This inquiry is crucial as it can help in determining if the persistent erection is a side effect of trazodone. Asking about medication for erectile dysfunction (Choice A) may not provide relevant information in this case, as the focus is on the potential side effects of trazodone. Inquiring about the last time the client consumed alcohol (Choice C) is not directly related to the situation at hand. Questioning about a history of angina or high blood pressure (Choice D) is important for overall assessment but is not as directly relevant to the immediate concern of the persistent erection potentially caused by trazodone.
Question 2
A nurse is working with a patient who has a history of substance abuse. Which goal would be most appropriate for the nurse to focus on during the initial phase of care?
A. Assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms
B. Helping the patient understand the long-term effects of substance use
C. Ensuring the patient remains free of substance use throughout their treatment
D. Promoting self-care and daily routines
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms
The correct answer is A because assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential in the initial phase of care for a patient with a history of substance abuse. This goal focuses on providing the patient with alternative ways to manage stress and triggers, which can help prevent relapse. It also empowers the patient to address underlying issues contributing to substance abuse.
Choice B is incorrect because focusing solely on understanding long-term effects may not address the immediate needs of the patient. Choice C is incorrect as complete abstinence is a long-term goal and may not be realistic in the initial phase. Choice D is incorrect as promoting self-care is important but may not address the specific needs related to substance abuse.
Question 3
A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?
A. Dendrites
B. Axons
C. Neurotransmitters
D. Synapses
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons. In schizophrenia, there can be imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These imbalances can contribute to symptoms like emotional blunting, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal. Therefore, in the case of a withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia who expresses little emotion and refuses group therapy, the nurse should recognize that altered neurotransmitter function is implicated in this behavior. It is crucial to address these neurotransmitter imbalances through appropriate medications and interventions to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the client's overall well-being.
Question 4
A community mental health nurse wants to establish a relationship with a very withdrawn patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient lives at home with a supportive family. Select the nurses best plan.
A. Visit daily for 4 days, then every other day for 1 week; stay with patient for 20 minutes, accept silence; state when the nurse will return.
B. Arrange to spend 1 hour each day with the patient; focus on asking questions about what the patient is thinking or experiencing; avoid silences.
C. Visit twice daily; sit beside the patient with a hand on the patients arm; leave if the patient does not respond within 10 minutes.
D. Visit every other day; remind the patient of the nurses identity; encourage the patient to talk while the nurse works on reports.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — Visit daily for 4 days, then every other day for 1 week; stay with patient for 20 minutes, accept silence; state when the nurse will return.
Severe constraints on the community mental health nurses time will probably not allow more time than what is mentioned in the correct option; yet, important principles can be used. A severely withdrawn patient should be met at the patients own level, with silence accepted. Short periods of contact are helpful to minimize both the patients and the nurses anxiety. Predictability in returning as stated will help build trust. An hour may be too long to sustain a home visit with a withdrawn patient, especially if the nurse persists in leveling a barrage of questions at the patient. Twice-daily visits are probably not possible, and leaving after 10 minutes would be premature. Touch may be threatening. Working on reports suggests the nurse is not interested in the patient.
Question 5
Which of the following questions would be most helpful in beginning an initial assessment interview for a patient who has just been admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit?
A. Have you had any previous psychiatric admissions?'
B. What brings you into the hospital today?'
C. Have you had any thoughts about trying to harm yourself?'
D. How would you describe your relationship with your spouse?'
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — What brings you into the hospital today?'
Step 1: Asking "What brings you into the hospital today?" is most helpful as it allows the patient to express their immediate concerns and reasons for admission.
Step 2: This question helps establish rapport, gather important information, and set the tone for the assessment.
Step 3: Understanding the patient's presenting issues is crucial for providing appropriate care and intervention.
Step 4: The other options are not as relevant for the initial assessment as they focus on past psychiatric history, suicidal ideation, or unrelated personal relationships.
Summary: Option B is the correct choice as it focuses on the current situation, which is crucial for the initial assessment, while the other options are less relevant for gathering immediate, pertinent information.
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Question 6
A student nurse is learning about ASD. What statement to the clinical instructor demonstrates that the student understands the definition of this disorder?
A. The signs and symptoms of this disorder go away once the child turns eighteen.'
B. The signs and symptoms of this disorder usually begin before age three.'
C. The disorder is mainly based on physical symptoms.'
D. This is a developmental disorder.'
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: "The signs and symptoms of this disorder usually begin before age three." This statement demonstrates understanding of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) because it aligns with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, where symptoms typically manifest in early childhood, often before age three. This early onset distinguishes ASD from other developmental disorders.
Incorrect choices:
A: The signs and symptoms of ASD do not go away at age eighteen. Symptoms persist into adulthood.
C: ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not primarily based on physical symptoms.
D: Describing ASD as a developmental disorder is accurate, but it does not specifically address the typical onset before age three, which is crucial for understanding the disorder.
What is one nursing assistant responsibility during the admission of a new resident?
A. The NA should make sure the resident unpacks all of his personal items right away.
B. The NA should give the resident a physical exam to help with care plan formulation.
C. The NA should explain how the bed controls and the call light work.
D. The NA should discuss the resident's advance directive choices with the resident and his family.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because explaining how the bed controls and the call light work is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of the new resident. By understanding how to use these tools, the resident can easily call for assistance and adjust the bed position as needed. This information empowers the resident to communicate effectively with the nursing staff and promotes their independence.
Choice A is incorrect because unpacking personal items is not a primary responsibility during admission. Choice B is incorrect as nursing assistants are not qualified to give physical exams for care plan formulation. Choice D is incorrect as discussing advance directive choices is typically the responsibility of the nurse or social worker, not the nursing assistant.
The nurse is caring for a 65-year-old woman who is undergoing diagnostic tests for a suspected stroke. When asked about her family medical history, the patient states that her father had a stroke. The nurse should:
A. Advise the patient to stop taking any medications she is currently using.
B. Reassure the patient that family history does not increase her risk of stroke.
C. Discuss the potential impact of her family history and encourage lifestyle changes to reduce her risk.
D. Recommend immediate surgery to prevent a stroke.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C because discussing the potential impact of the patient's family history of stroke is crucial in understanding her risk factors. By encouraging lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, the nurse can help reduce the patient's risk of stroke. This approach aligns with preventive care and empowers the patient to take control of her health.
Choices A and D are incorrect because stopping medications or recommending immediate surgery without proper assessment and consultation with healthcare providers could be harmful and unnecessary. Choice B is incorrect as family history is a known risk factor for stroke, and it is essential to address this risk factor and educate the patient on how it may impact her health.
A community mental health nurse wants to establish a relationship with a very withdrawn patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient lives at home with a supportive family. Select the nurses best plan.
A. Visit daily for 4 days, then every other day for 1 week; stay with patient for 20 minutes, accept silence; state when the nurse will return.
B. Arrange to spend 1 hour each day with the patient; focus on asking questions about what the patient is thinking or experiencing; avoid silences.
C. Visit twice daily; sit beside the patient with a hand on the patients arm; leave if the patient does not respond within 10 minutes.
D. Visit every other day; remind the patient of the nurses identity; encourage the patient to talk while the nurse works on reports.
Correct answer:
Severe constraints on the community mental health nurses time will probably not allow more time than what is mentioned in the correct option; yet, important principles can be used. A severely withdrawn patient should be met at the patients own level, with silence accepted. Short periods of contact are helpful to minimize both the patients and the nurses anxiety. Predictability in returning as stated will help build trust. An hour may be too long to sustain a home visit with a withdrawn patient, especially if the nurse persists in leveling a barrage of questions at the patient. Twice-daily visits are probably not possible, and leaving after 10 minutes would be premature. Touch may be threatening. Working on reports suggests the nurse is not interested in the patient.
The nurse is leading a small group of hospitalized patients diagnosed with psychiatric disorders. One group member has asked for advice and often agrees with suggestions by other group members but then adds, 'Yes, but . . .' to every suggestion offered. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
A. Things would probably work out better if you joined a different group.
B. Do you realize you say, ‘Yes, but . . .'to every suggestion the group has for you?
C. I suggest you stop and think about why you always respond to suggestions with ‘Yes, but . . .'
D. What solution do you think would work best for you?
Correct answer:
The correct answer is D because it encourages the group member to take ownership of their situation. By asking them what solution they think would work best, the nurse empowers the individual to think critically and problem-solve for themselves. This approach promotes self-reflection and self-efficacy, which are important in the therapeutic process.
Choice A is incorrect as it suggests avoiding the issue rather than addressing it directly. Choice B, while acknowledging the behavior, does not prompt the individual to actively engage in finding a solution. Choice C focuses on analyzing the behavior rather than facilitating problem-solving. Overall, choice D is the best option as it encourages autonomy and empowers the individual to take charge of their own progress.
A nurse is working with a patient who has a history of substance abuse. Which goal would be most appropriate for the nurse to focus on during the initial phase of care?
A. Assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms
B. Helping the patient understand the long-term effects of substance use
C. Ensuring the patient remains free of substance use throughout their treatment
D. Promoting self-care and daily routines
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A because assisting the patient in developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential in the initial phase of care for a patient with a history of substance abuse. This goal focuses on providing the patient with alternative ways to manage stress and triggers, which can help prevent relapse. It also empowers the patient to address underlying issues contributing to substance abuse.
Choice B is incorrect because focusing solely on understanding long-term effects may not address the immediate needs of the patient. Choice C is incorrect as complete abstinence is a long-term goal and may not be realistic in the initial phase. Choice D is incorrect as promoting self-care is important but may not address the specific needs related to substance abuse.
The abused person is often in a dependent position, relying on the abuser for basic needs. At particular risk are children and the elderly due to:
A. The love they have for parents or children.
B. Their limited options.
C. The need to feel safe at home.
D. Other relatives do not want them.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Their limited options. Abused individuals, especially children and the elderly, are often in a dependent position with limited resources or support networks, making it difficult for them to leave the abusive situation. This dependency creates a power imbalance, leaving them with few alternatives to escape the abuse. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: The love they have for parents or children does not explain why they are at risk of abuse.
C: The need to feel safe at home is actually compromised in abusive situations, so it does not explain why they are at risk.
D: The fact that other relatives do not want them is not a universal reason for abuse and does not address the underlying issue of limited options leading to vulnerability.
A nursing student is initiating a relationship with an assigned patient. After meeting and spending approximately 20 minutes talking with the patient, the student makes arrangements to visit again after lunch. After lunch, fellow classmates invite the student to go to the gym with them and a group of patients to play volleyball. The student starts to go with them but then remembers the promise to meet with the patient. The student decides to stay behind and talk to with her patient. The student’s decision reflects which ethical principle?
A. Autonomy
B. Beneficence
C. Fidelity
D. Veracity
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Fidelity. Fidelity refers to the principle of keeping promises and commitments made to others. In this scenario, the nursing student made a promise to visit the patient again after lunch, demonstrating a commitment to the patient's well-being and building a trusting relationship. By choosing to stay behind and talk to the patient instead of going to the gym with classmates, the student is honoring their commitment and acting in accordance with the ethical principle of fidelity. Autonomy (A) relates to respecting the patient's right to make their own decisions, beneficence (B) involves doing good and promoting the patient's well-being, and veracity (D) refers to truthfulness and honesty, none of which are directly applicable in this context.
A group of nursing students are reviewing information about co-occurring disorders and risks for substance abuse. The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which psychiatric disorder as being associated with the highest risk for substance abuse?
A. Mania
B. Panic disorder
C. Antisocial personality disorder
D. Phobias
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Antisocial personality disorder. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder have a higher risk for substance abuse due to impulsivity, sensation-seeking behavior, and disregard for societal norms. This disorder is characterized by a lack of empathy and concern for others, leading to risky behaviors such as substance abuse. Mania, panic disorder, and phobias are not typically associated with as high a risk for substance abuse as antisocial personality disorder due to different underlying mechanisms. Mania is associated with impulsive behavior but may not always involve substance abuse. Panic disorder and phobias are anxiety disorders that are more focused on specific fears and avoidance behaviors rather than substance abuse tendencies.
A patient says to the nurse, "My father has been dead for over 10 years, but talking to you is almost as comforting as the talks he and I had when I was a chil" Which term applies to the patient's comment?
A. Superego
B. Transference
C. Reality testing
D. Counter-transference
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: Transference. This term refers to the patient projecting feelings or emotions they have towards someone else, typically a significant figure from their past, onto the nurse. In this scenario, the patient is expressing comfort in talking to the nurse similar to the comfort they felt when talking to their deceased father, indicating a transference of emotions.
A: Superego pertains to the internalized moral standards and values of an individual, not relevant in this context.
C: Reality testing involves distinguishing between internal thoughts and external reality, which is not the focus of the patient's comment.
D: Counter-transference refers to the nurse's emotional response towards the patient, not the patient's feelings towards the nurse.
RN exams mental health practice questions, set 42 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
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