ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023
1. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching regarding the treatment of major depressive disorder?
- A. I have been on this antidepressant for 3 days. I understand that the full effect may take weeks to occur.
- B. I am going to ask my nurse practitioner to discontinue my Prozac today and let me start taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor tomorrow.
- C. I may ask to have my medication changed to Wellbutrin due to the problems I am having being romantic with my wife.
- D. I realize that there are many antidepressants and it might take a while until we find the one that works best for me.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Choice B indicates a need for further teaching because the patient is planning to switch directly from Prozac, an SSRI, to a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) without allowing for a washout period. This abrupt switch poses a risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to educate the patient about the importance of consulting healthcare providers before changing medications to prevent potential adverse effects.
2. Maggie, a child in protective custody, is found to have an imaginary friend, Holly. Her foster family shares this information with the nurse. The nurse teaches the family members about children who have suffered trauma and knows her teaching was effective when the foster mother states:
- A. I understand that imaginary friends are abnormal.
- B. I understand that imaginary friends are a maladaptive behavior.
- C. I understand that imaginary friends are a coping mechanism.
- D. I understand that we should tell the child that imaginary friends are unacceptable.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Imaginary friends can serve as a coping mechanism for children, especially those who have experienced trauma. They can provide comfort and a sense of control in challenging situations. Acknowledging and supporting the child's imaginary friend can be beneficial in their emotional healing and development.
3. Cabot has multiple symptoms of depression including mood reactivity, social phobia, anxiety, and overeating. With a history of mild hypertension, which classification of antidepressants dispensed as a transdermal patch would be a safe medication?
- A. Tricyclic antidepressants
- B. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- C. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
- D. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors dispensed as transdermal patches can be a safer option for patients with mild hypertension due to reduced systemic absorption compared to other forms of antidepressants, potentially minimizing cardiovascular effects associated with hypertension.
4. Adolescents often display fluctuations in mood along with undeveloped emotional regulation and poor tolerance for frustration. Emotional and behavioral control usually increases over the course of adolescence due to:
- A. Limited executive function
- B. Cerebellum maturation
- C. Cerebral stasis and hormonal changes
- D. A slight reduction in brain volume
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During adolescence, emotional and behavioral control typically improves as the cerebellum matures. The cerebellum plays a significant role in regulating emotions and behavior, contributing to the increased control seen in adolescents over time.
5. Which statement made by the patient demonstrates an understanding of the treatment of choice for patients managing the effects of traumatic events?
- A. I attend my therapy sessions regularly.
- B. Those intrusive memories are hidden for a reason and should stay hidden.
- C. Keeping busy is the key to achieving mental health.
- D. I've agreed to move in with my parents so I'll get the support I need.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Regular attendance at therapy sessions is a crucial aspect of the recommended treatment for managing the effects of traumatic events. Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and recovery. Consistent participation in therapy sessions can help patients address and overcome the impact of trauma on their mental health.
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