ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice B
1. 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: A
Rationale: 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.
2. Which is a correct evaluation of the new psychiatric nurse's statement regarding a client's use of defense mechanisms?
- A. Defense mechanisms can be self-protective responses to stress and need not be eliminated.
- B. Defense mechanisms are a maladaptive attempt by the ego to manage anxiety and should always be eliminated.
- C. Defense mechanisms, used by individuals with weak ego integrity, should be discouraged but not eliminated.
- D. Defense mechanisms cause disintegration of the ego and should be fostered and encouraged.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct evaluation is that defense mechanisms can be self-protective responses to stress and do not necessarily need to be eliminated. These mechanisms serve the purpose of reducing anxiety during times of stress. While some defense mechanisms may be maladaptive, they can also help individuals cope with challenging situations. It is essential for the nurse to recognize that addressing defense mechanisms should be done sensitively, as they may be crucial for the client's emotional regulation. Encouraging the development of healthy coping skills while acknowledging the role of defense mechanisms in managing stress is a balanced approach in psychiatric care. Choice B is incorrect because completely eliminating defense mechanisms is not always feasible or beneficial. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the relationship between defense mechanisms and ego integrity. Choice D is incorrect as it misrepresents the role of defense mechanisms in ego functions.
3. Which of the following are therapeutic communication techniques that a healthcare provider can use when interacting with clients? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Using Noise
- B. Offering self
- C. Giving advice
- D. Providing reassurance
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Therapeutic communication techniques aim to promote a therapeutic relationship and client well-being. Using noise is a non-therapeutic technique that can hinder effective communication. Offering self, providing reassurance, and using silence are considered therapeutic. However, giving advice is often seen as non-therapeutic as it can diminish client autonomy and hinder problem-solving skills.
4. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- A. Ask the client to describe the content of the hallucinations.
- B. Instruct the client to ignore the hallucinations.
- C. Administer prescribed antipsychotic medication.
- D. Engage the client in reality-based activities.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The initial intervention for a client experiencing auditory hallucinations, especially in schizophrenia, is to assess the content of the hallucinations. By asking the client to describe the hallucinations, the nurse can determine if they are command hallucinations that might pose a risk. This assessment is crucial in guiding further appropriate interventions to ensure the client's safety and well-being. Instructing the client to ignore the hallucinations (Choice B) may not be effective, as the hallucinations are real to the client. Administering antipsychotic medication (Choice C) may be necessary but should come after assessing the situation. Engaging the client in reality-based activities (Choice D) is important but not the first priority when dealing with auditory hallucinations.
5. What intervention should the nurse implement for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) performing ritualistic handwashing?
- A. Allow the client to continue the ritualistic behavior initially
- B. Immediately stop the client from performing the ritual
- C. Encourage the client to perform the ritual more quickly
- D. Provide a distraction to interrupt the ritual
Correct answer: A
Rationale: For a client with OCD performing ritualistic handwashing, the nurse should initially allow the client to continue the behavior. Abruptly stopping the behavior or providing a distraction can heighten the client's anxiety. Encouraging the client to perform the ritual more quickly does not address the underlying issue of OCD and may exacerbate their anxiety. Providing a distraction to interrupt the ritual may not be effective in the long term and could lead to increased distress. Gradual limits should be established over time to help the client manage and reduce the ritualistic behavior effectively.
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