a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder gad states i just cant stop worrying about everything which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019

1. A client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) states, 'I just can't stop worrying about everything.' Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for this client?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) who expresses an inability to stop worrying about everything is 'Ineffective coping.' This diagnosis indicates the client's struggle to manage anxiety and worry effectively, which aligns with the client's statement. 'Disturbed thought processes' (Choice B) would involve disorganized or irrational thinking patterns, which are not directly related to the client's statement about excessive worry. 'Chronic low self-esteem' (Choice C) refers to a long-standing negative self-evaluation and is not the most fitting diagnosis for the client's current concern. 'Social isolation' (Choice D) pertains to a lack of social interactions and support, which is not the primary issue highlighted by the client's statement.

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?

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. A client has been diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with histrionic personality disorder often display attention-seeking behaviors as a way to draw focus and validation from others. This behavior may manifest as exaggerated emotions and dramatic expressions to maintain the spotlight. While seductive behavior and dependency on others are potential characteristics of histrionic personality disorder, attention-seeking behavior is the hallmark trait. Therefore, the correct answer is attention-seeking behavior (Choice A). Dramatic expressions of emotion (Choice B) can be a feature of histrionic personality disorder, but it is not as characteristic as attention-seeking behavior. Seductive behavior (Choice C) may also be present in individuals with histrionic personality disorder, but it is not the primary behavior to expect. Dependency on others (Choice D) is not a core feature of histrionic personality disorder, although individuals with this disorder may seek attention and validation from others.

4. A patient is being educated about the difference between mental health and mental illness. Which statement by the patient reflects an accurate understanding of mental health?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Mental health is defined as the successful adaptation to stressors in the internal and external environment. This includes having thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are age-appropriate and congruent with cultural and societal norms. Mental health is not solely the absence of stressors or incongruence between thoughts, feelings, and behavior, nor is it a specific diagnostic category in the DSM-5. Choice A is incorrect because mental health is not just the absence of stressors but the ability to adapt to them. Choice C is wrong as mental health involves congruence, not incongruence, between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Choice D is inaccurate as mental health is a broader concept than a specific diagnostic category in the DSM-5.

5. Which of the following interventions should not be implemented for a client with anorexia nervosa?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Interventions for a client with anorexia nervosa should focus on monitoring daily caloric intake and weight, establishing a structured eating plan, providing liquid supplements as prescribed, and offering rewards for weight gain. Encouraging exercise is not recommended as it can worsen the condition by increasing energy expenditure and potentially reinforcing unhealthy behaviors associated with anorexia nervosa.

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