ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam
1. A client diagnosed with OCD spends hours bathing and grooming. During a one-on-one interaction, the client discusses the rituals in detail but avoids any feelings that the rituals generate. Which defense mechanism should the nurse identify?
- A. Dissociation
- B. Rationalization
- C. Sublimation
- D. Intellectualization
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where an individual focuses on rational, logical explanations to distance themselves from uncomfortable emotions. In this scenario, the client discusses the OCD rituals in a detailed and analytical manner, avoiding the emotional aspects associated with them. This behavior reflects intellectualization rather than dissociation, rationalization, or sublimation. Dissociation involves a disconnection from reality, rationalization is the attempt to justify behaviors, and sublimation is redirecting unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities.
2. 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.
3. A client has been diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?
- A. Attention-seeking behavior
- B. Dramatic expressions of emotion
- C. Seductive behavior
- D. Dependency on others
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. Which behavior is consistent with therapeutic communication?
- A. Offering your opinion when asked to convey support.
- B. Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words.
- C. Interrupting periods of silence before they become awkward for the patient.
- D. Telling the patient they did well when you approve of their statements or actions.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words is a key aspect of therapeutic communication as it demonstrates active listening and understanding. It shows the patient that their words have been heard and understood, fostering a sense of validation and empathy. Offering opinions, interrupting silence, or giving approval may not always align with the principles of therapeutic communication, which focus on patient-centered interactions and empathetic responses.
5. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate to address this symptom?
- A. Encourage the client to discuss the voices.
- B. Instruct the client to listen to music to drown out the voices.
- C. Tell the client that the voices are not real.
- D. Distract the client from the voices.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging the client to discuss the voices is the most appropriate nursing intervention when a client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. By discussing the voices, the client can feel heard, understood, and supported. It allows the client to express their experiences, which can help in processing and coping with the hallucinations. This intervention promotes therapeutic communication and builds a trusting nurse-client relationship, which is essential in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia. Choice B is incorrect because instructing the client to listen to music to drown out the voices does not address the underlying issue and may not be effective in managing auditory hallucinations. Choice C is incorrect because telling the client that the voices are not real can invalidate the client's experiences and feelings, leading to further distress. Choice D is incorrect as solely distracting the client from the voices does not help in addressing the hallucinations or supporting the client in dealing with their symptoms.
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