ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023
1. Which patient should be most carefully assessed for fluid and electrolyte imbalance among those receiving the following drugs?
- A. lithium (Eskalith)
- B. clozapine (Clozaril)
- C. diazepam (Valium)
- D. amitriptyline
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Lithium is known to cause polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst), which can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, patients receiving lithium should be carefully monitored for signs of fluid and electrolyte disturbances to prevent any potential complications.
2. The mental health team is determining treatment options for a male patient experiencing psychotic symptoms. Which question shouldn't the team answer to determine whether a community outpatient or inpatient setting is most appropriate?
- A. Is the patient expressing suicidal thoughts?
- B. Does the patient have intact judgment and insight into his situation?
- C. Does the patient have experiences with either community or inpatient mental healthcare facilities?
- D. Does the patient require a therapeutic environment to support the management of psychotic symptoms?
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Assessing suicidal thoughts, judgment, insight, and the need for a therapeutic environment are crucial factors in determining the appropriate treatment setting for a patient experiencing psychotic symptoms. Past experiences with mental healthcare facilities do not play a direct role in deciding between a community outpatient or inpatient setting.
3. Which characteristic presents the greatest risk for injury to others in a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia?
- A. Depersonalization
- B. Pressured speech
- C. Negative symptoms
- D. Paranoia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Paranoia in patients with schizophrenia can lead to aggressive behaviors, including violence, which poses a significant risk of injury to others. Individuals experiencing paranoia may perceive others as threats and act defensively or aggressively in response, increasing the likelihood of harm to those around them.
4. Why is it important to establish a contract with a client with an eating disorder at the beginning of treatment?
- A. The client and healthcare provider form a partnership that is challenging for the family to disrupt.
- B. A collaborative approach to treatment planning ensures that both physical and emotional needs will be addressed.
- C. Involving the client in decision-making enhances the feeling of control and fosters cooperation.
- D. Permission for refeeding is crucial as it can have adverse effects.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Establishing a contract with a client with an eating disorder at the start of treatment is crucial to involve the client in decision-making processes. By engaging the client in decision-making, it enhances their sense of control over their treatment, which can lead to increased cooperation and better treatment outcomes. This collaborative approach empowers the client and fosters a therapeutic alliance between the client and the healthcare provider, rather than excluding the family or causing disruptions. It focuses on addressing both the physical and emotional needs of the client, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan.
5. Ted, a former executive, is now unemployed due to manic episodes at work. He was diagnosed with bipolar I 8 years ago. Ted has a history of IV drug abuse, which resulted in hepatitis C. He is taking his lithium exactly as scheduled, a fact that both Ted's wife and his blood tests confirm. To reduce Ted's mania, the psychiatric nurse practitioner recommends:
- A. Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- B. Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- C. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
- D. Lurasidone (Latuda)
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be an effective treatment for reducing mania in patients with bipolar disorder who have not responded to medication. In Ted's case, where he has a history of bipolar I disorder, lithium treatment, and manic episodes, ECT may be recommended by the psychiatric nurse practitioner to help manage his symptoms.
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