a nurse is teaching a patient about relaxation techniques to manage anxiety which technique is the nurse most likely to recommend

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. A healthcare professional is teaching a patient about relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. Which technique is the healthcare professional most likely to recommend?

A. Deep breathing exercises
B. Physical exercise
C. Mindfulness meditation
D. Journaling

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Deep breathing exercises are a widely recommended technique for managing anxiety and promoting relaxation. By focusing on deep, slow breaths, individuals can activate the body's relaxation response, leading to decreased anxiety levels and an overall sense of calm. This technique is easy to learn, can be practiced anywhere, and is often suggested by healthcare professionals as a first-line approach for anxiety management. Physical exercise, mindfulness meditation, and journaling are also beneficial for mental well-being but may not be the first choice when specifically targeting acute anxiety management.

2. Which of the following statements about the DSM-5 is inaccurate?

A. It includes specific criteria for diagnosing mental disorders.
B. It is used by mental health professionals to guide diagnosis.
C. It provides a classification system for mental disorders.
D. It includes guidelines for the treatment of mental disorders.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The DSM-5 is a diagnostic tool that provides specific criteria for diagnosing mental disorders, is utilized by mental health professionals to guide diagnosis, and offers a systematic classification of mental disorders. The statement that the DSM-5 includes guidelines for the treatment of mental disorders is inaccurate. The primary focus of the DSM-5 is on diagnosis and classification, not treatment. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C accurately describe the purpose and functions of the DSM-5.

3. Which statement about the concept of neuroses is most accurate?

A. An individual experiencing neurosis is unaware of the distress they are experiencing.
B. An individual experiencing neurosis feels helpless to change their situation.
C. An individual experiencing neurosis is aware of psychological causes of their behavior.
D. An individual experiencing neurosis has a loss of contact with reality.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Neurosis involves feelings of distress and anxiety, but individuals experiencing neurosis are usually aware of their distress and its causes. They may recognize that their behaviors are maladaptive and are generally in contact with reality. The accurate statement about neurosis is that an individual feels helpless to change their situation. Choice A is incorrect because individuals with neurosis are usually aware of their distress. Choice C is incorrect because while individuals may be aware of psychological causes, it is not the defining characteristic of neurosis. Choice D is incorrect because a loss of contact with reality is more characteristic of psychosis, not neurosis.

4. How do epidemiological studies contribute to improvements in care for individuals with mental disorders?

A. Providing information about effective nursing techniques.
B. Identifying risk factors that contribute to the development of a disorder.
C. Identifying individuals in the general population who will develop a specific disorder.
D. Identifying which individuals will respond favorably to a specific treatment.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Epidemiological studies play a crucial role in identifying risk factors associated with the development of mental disorders. By pinpointing these risk factors, healthcare providers can implement preventive measures and develop more effective treatments, ultimately leading to improved care for individuals with mental disorders.

5. When developing a care plan for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which of the following interventions should not be included?

A. Encourage the client to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.
B. Teach the client relaxation techniques.
C. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
D. Provide a structured daily routine.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Avoiding anxiety-provoking situations is not a recommended intervention in caring for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as it can reinforce the client's anxiety. Exposing the client gradually to feared situations can help reduce anxiety in the long term through techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy. Teaching relaxation techniques helps the client manage stress and anxiety effectively. Encouraging the client to express their feelings promotes emotional processing and reduces internal tension. Providing a structured daily routine can offer predictability and stability, which are beneficial for individuals with GAD.