LPN LPN
ATI Mental Health Practice A 2023
1. When a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol, what is a priority assessment for the nurse?
- A. Assessing for signs of tardive dyskinesia
- B. Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- C. Checking for signs of depression
- D. Monitoring for changes in appetite
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome is crucial for patients taking haloperidol. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but serious side effect that can occur with antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. It presents with symptoms such as high fever, unstable blood pressure, confusion, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.
2. Which medication is commonly used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain?
- A. Gabapentin
- B. Duloxetine
- C. Amitriptyline
- D. Tramadol
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Duloxetine, also known as Cymbalta, is a medication commonly used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain. It is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that helps alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. Gabapentin is primarily used for neuropathic pain, Amitriptyline is commonly used as an antidepressant, and Tramadol is an opioid analgesic often used for pain relief but not typically indicated for major depressive disorder.
3. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed sertraline. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?
- A. Dry mouth
- B. Weight gain
- C. Insomnia
- D. Nausea
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect associated with sertraline, a medication commonly used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is essential for the nurse to monitor for nausea as it can impact the patient's adherence to the medication regimen. Educating the patient about this potential side effect and advising ways to manage it can enhance treatment compliance and overall therapeutic outcomes.
4. A patient is receiving education about taking clozapine. Which statement indicates the patient understands the side effects?
- A. I should report any signs of infection to my healthcare provider immediately.
- B. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
- C. I should take this medication on an empty stomach.
- D. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because patients taking clozapine should report signs of infection immediately due to the risk of agranulocytosis. Agranulocytosis is a potentially life-threatening side effect of clozapine characterized by a significant decrease in white blood cell count, which can leave the patient vulnerable to infections. Reporting signs of infection promptly is crucial to prevent serious complications.
5. What is the primary goal of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) when treating a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
- A. To help the patient confront and process traumatic memories
- B. To help the patient change negative thought patterns
- C. To help the patient develop relaxation techniques
- D. To help the patient avoid triggers
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The primary goal of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in treating patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is to help them confront and process traumatic memories. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate the processing of distressing memories, leading to their desensitization and reprocessing, ultimately reducing PTSD symptoms.
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