ATI RN
ATI Mental Health
1. During an assessment, a nurse observes a client showing signs of moderate anxiety. Which symptom is not typically associated with moderate anxiety?
- A. Fidgeting
- B. Laughing inappropriately
- C. Palpitations
- D. Nail biting
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When assessing a client with moderate anxiety, the nurse should anticipate signs such as fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting. These behaviors are common manifestations of increased stress levels. Palpitations, on the other hand, are more commonly associated with severe anxiety or panic attacks. Other symptoms of severe anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
2. Which client action is an example of the defense mechanism of displacement?
- A. A man kicks his dog after an argument with his boss.
- B. A woman yells at her children after a stressful day at work.
- C. A student immerses herself in studying to avoid thinking about a recent breakup.
- D. A person channels aggressive impulses into playing a sport.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Displacement involves redirecting emotions, often anger or aggression, from their original source to a less threatening target. In this scenario, the woman redirects her frustration from work towards her children, who are perceived as less threatening and safer to express anger towards.
3. During a mental status examination, which of the following components should not be included in the assessment?
- A. Appearance and behavior
- B. Giving advice
- C. Mood and affect
- D. Cognitive function
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During a mental status examination, components such as appearance and behavior, mood and affect, and cognitive function are assessed. Giving advice is not a component of a mental status examination as it focuses on evaluating the client's mental state rather than providing guidance or recommendations.
4. A client has generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and a nurse is providing care. Which of the following interventions should the nurse avoid implementing?
- A. Encourage the client to express their feelings
- B. Monitor daily caloric intake and weight
- C. Promote regular physical activity
- D. Discourage the use of caffeine
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In caring for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), it is important to encourage the client to express their feelings, promote regular physical activity, and discourage the use of caffeine. Addressing weight and caloric intake monitoring may exacerbate anxiety related to body image, and focusing on these aspects can be distressing for the client. Therefore, monitoring daily caloric intake and weight should be avoided in this scenario.
5. Which of the following symptoms shouldn't a healthcare professional expect to assess in a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
- A. Excessive worry
- B. Muscle tension
- C. Increased energy
- D. Restlessness
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), common symptoms include excessive worry, muscle tension, restlessness, and irritability. Increased energy is not typically associated with GAD; instead, clients often experience fatigue due to the persistent anxiety and worry that characterize the disorder.
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