ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019
1. A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spends hours each day washing her hands. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client reduce this behavior?
- A. Encourage the client to set a time limit for washing hands.
- B. Encourage the client to wash hands only when necessary.
- C. Encourage the client to use hand sanitizer instead of washing.
- D. Encourage the client to explore the reasons behind the hand washing.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Setting a time limit for hand washing is an effective intervention in managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. By establishing boundaries around the behavior, the client can gradually work towards reducing the excessive hand washing and regaining control over the compulsion. Choice B is not as effective because it does not address the underlying compulsion. Choice C may not be helpful as it may not satisfy the client's need for cleanliness and could reinforce the behavior. Choice D, while important in therapy, may not be the most immediate intervention needed to address the excessive hand washing behavior.
2. A client has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should the nurse implement to reduce the client's anxiety?
- A. Encourage the client to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
- B. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy sessions.
- C. Encourage the client to engage in relaxation techniques.
- D. Encourage the client to maintain a daily journal.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce anxiety for clients with PTSD. These techniques promote relaxation and help manage stress responses, contributing to a sense of calmness and improved coping mechanisms in dealing with anxiety triggers associated with PTSD. Avoiding discussing the traumatic event (Choice A) may hinder the client's progress in processing and coping with the trauma. While group therapy (Choice B) can be beneficial, relaxation techniques are more specific for reducing anxiety in this context. Maintaining a daily journal (Choice D) may be helpful for some clients but might not directly address anxiety reduction as effectively as relaxation techniques.
3. A healthcare professional is assessing a client diagnosed with body dysmorphic disorder. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?
- A. Preoccupation with a perceived physical defect
- B. Fear of gaining weight
- C. Excessive worry about physical symptoms
- D. Persistent depressive mood
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Preoccupation with a perceived physical defect. Individuals with body dysmorphic disorder exhibit an obsessive preoccupation with a perceived flaw in their physical appearance, which is often minor or not noticeable to others. This preoccupation causes distress and leads to repetitive behaviors like mirror checking or seeking reassurance about their appearance. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because fear of gaining weight is more characteristic of an eating disorder, excessive worry about physical symptoms may be seen in somatic symptom disorder, and persistent depressive mood aligns more with depressive disorders rather than body dysmorphic disorder.
4. A client is prescribed diazepam (Valium) for anxiety. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I can drink alcohol while taking this medication.
- B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- C. I should take this medication only when I feel anxious.
- D. I can stop taking this medication when I feel better.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because clients should avoid alcohol while taking diazepam (Valium) due to potential interactions. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of diazepam, leading to excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression. Choice B is correct as it reflects the need to avoid alcohol. Choice C is incorrect because diazepam is usually taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping diazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should be done gradually under medical supervision.
5. A client prescribed lithium for bipolar disorder is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I should avoid eating aged cheeses and processed meats.
- B. I need to maintain a consistent sodium intake.
- C. I should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- D. I can take over-the-counter medications without consulting my healthcare provider.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Taking over-the-counter medications without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended for clients on lithium therapy as there can be potential interactions between lithium and certain medications. It is crucial for clients on lithium to always consult their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their treatment. Choices A, B, and C are all correct statements that align with managing lithium therapy, emphasizing the importance of dietary restrictions and adequate hydration, as well as monitoring sodium intake to maintain the therapeutic effects of lithium.
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