ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019
1. 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.
2. A client is experiencing panic attacks. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client manage anxiety?
- A. Encourage the client to avoid situations that trigger anxiety.
- B. Encourage the client to practice deep breathing exercises.
- C. Encourage the client to take anti-anxiety medication as prescribed.
- D. Encourage the client to engage in regular physical activity.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During panic attacks, deep breathing exercises can help the client manage anxiety effectively by promoting relaxation and reducing the intensity of symptoms. Encouraging the client to practice deep breathing can provide a quick and accessible strategy to cope with the immediate distress of a panic attack. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding triggering situations may reinforce avoidance behavior, anti-anxiety medication is not the first-line intervention during a panic attack, and engaging in physical activity may not be feasible or effective during an acute episode of panic.
3. A client has been prescribed bupropion (Wellbutrin) for depression. Which instruction should the nurse provide during discharge?
- A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
- B. Stop taking the medication if you feel better.
- C. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- D. Double the dose if you miss a dose.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide is to advise the client to avoid drinking alcohol while taking bupropion (Wellbutrin) due to the increased risk of side effects like seizures. Alcohol can interact with bupropion and worsen its side effects, making it important to abstain from alcohol consumption during the treatment. Option A is incorrect because taking the medication with a full glass of water is a general instruction for medications and not specific to bupropion. Option B is incorrect as abruptly stopping bupropion can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should only be done under medical supervision. Option D is incorrect as doubling the dose of bupropion is dangerous and should not be done, even if a dose is missed.
4. When caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal, which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent complications?
- A. Provide a well-lit environment.
- B. Administer antipsychotic medication as prescribed.
- C. Monitor the client's vital signs closely.
- D. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Encouraging the client to express their feelings is essential during alcohol withdrawal as it can help them cope with the emotional and psychological stress associated with the process. This intervention promotes open communication, allows the client to verbalize their emotions, and may prevent escalating anxiety or agitation, ultimately reducing the risk of complications. Providing a well-lit environment (Choice A) is not directly related to preventing complications of alcohol withdrawal. Administering antipsychotic medication (Choice B) is not the standard treatment for alcohol withdrawal; medications such as benzodiazepines are more commonly used. While monitoring vital signs (Choice C) is important, encouraging the client to express their feelings (Choice D) directly addresses emotional well-being, which is crucial during this vulnerable time.
5. A client is experiencing alcohol withdrawal. Which symptom should the nurse identify as a priority to address?
- A. Tremors
- B. Nausea and vomiting
- C. Increased blood pressure
- D. Insomnia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During alcohol withdrawal, increased blood pressure is a critical symptom that requires immediate attention. Elevated blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular events or stroke. Monitoring and managing blood pressure in clients experiencing alcohol withdrawal is crucial to prevent adverse outcomes. Tremors, nausea and vomiting, and insomnia are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but they are not as immediately life-threatening as increased blood pressure. Therefore, addressing increased blood pressure takes precedence in the management of a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal.
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