ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023
1. A nurse is reviewing prescriptions for a patient with major depression at the county clinic. Since the patient has a mild intellectual disability, the nurse would question which classification of antidepressant drugs:
- A. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- B. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- C. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are less suitable for patients with intellectual disabilities due to the need for dietary restrictions and close monitoring. These restrictions can be challenging for patients with mild intellectual disabilities to follow, making this drug class a concern for this patient population.
2. Luc's family comes home one evening to find him extremely agitated, and they suspect he is in a full manic episode. The family calls emergency medical services. While one medic is talking with Luc and his family, the other medic is counting something on his desk. What is the medic most likely counting?
- A. Hypodermic needles
- B. Fast food wrappers
- C. Empty soda cans
- D. Energy drink containers
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Energy drink containers are often associated with exacerbating manic episodes due to their high caffeine content, which can worsen symptoms of agitation and restlessness.
3. In the care plan of a male patient diagnosed with a dissociative disorder, the nursing diagnosis of ineffective coping is included. Which behavior demonstrated by the patient supports this nursing diagnosis?
- A. Has no memory of the physical abuse he endured.
- B. Using both alcohol and marijuana.
- C. Often reports being unaware of surroundings.
- D. Reports feelings of 'not really being here.'
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because using substances like alcohol and marijuana can be a sign of ineffective coping mechanisms in patients with dissociative disorders. Substance abuse is often used as a maladaptive way to cope with stress, trauma, or other underlying issues. Choices A, C, and D may be related to dissociative symptoms but do not directly reflect ineffective coping behaviors as substance abuse does.
4. Tomas is a 21-year-old male with a recent diagnosis of schizophrenia. Tomas's nurse recognizes that self-medicating with excessive alcohol is common in this disease and can co-occur along with:
- A. Generally good health despite the mental illness.
- B. An aversion to drinking fluids.
- C. Anxiety and depression.
- D. The ability to express his needs.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Individuals with schizophrenia often turn to excessive alcohol consumption as a way to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. This maladaptive coping mechanism can exacerbate the challenges associated with schizophrenia and may hinder effective treatment outcomes. Recognizing the presence of anxiety and depression alongside alcohol abuse is crucial for providing holistic care and support to individuals with schizophrenia.
5. Substance abuse is often present in individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Laura, a 28-year-old with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, chooses to drink alcohol instead of taking her prescribed medications. The nurse caring for this patient recognizes that:
- A. Anxiety may be present.
- B. Alcohol ingestion is a form of self-medication.
- C. The patient is lacking a sufficient number of neurotransmitters.
- D. The patient is using alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Individuals with bipolar disorder may turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication to cope with their symptoms. This behavior is often seen as an attempt to manage mood swings and alleviate distress. It is important for healthcare providers to address and manage substance abuse issues in patients with bipolar disorder to ensure proper treatment and overall well-being.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99