ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Practice A
1. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is performing a ritualistic handwashing routine. What is the nurse's best initial response?
- A. Interrupt the ritual to help the patient gain control.
- B. Allow the ritual but set limits on the duration.
- C. Ignore the behavior to avoid reinforcing it.
- D. Encourage the patient to stop the ritual and discuss their feelings.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD engaging in ritualistic behaviors like handwashing, the nurse's best initial response is to allow the ritual but set limits on the duration. This approach helps in managing the behavior while gradually working towards reducing its frequency. Interrupting the ritual abruptly may cause distress to the patient, ignoring the behavior may reinforce it, and encouraging the patient to stop the ritual without setting limits may not be as effective in the initial stage of intervention.
2. A healthcare professional is caring for a patient with bipolar disorder who is experiencing a manic episode. Which intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Encourage group activities to increase socialization.
- B. Provide a structured environment with limited stimuli.
- C. Allow the patient to engage in physical activities freely.
- D. Give the patient detailed and complex tasks to complete.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During a manic episode, individuals with bipolar disorder may have heightened sensitivity to stimuli and may struggle with organization and decision-making. Providing a structured environment with limited stimuli can help reduce triggers and maintain a sense of control for the patient. It is essential to create a calm and predictable setting to support the individual in managing their symptoms effectively. Choice A is incorrect as group activities may overwhelm the patient due to increased stimuli. Choice C is not the most appropriate because unstructured physical activities may exacerbate the manic symptoms. Choice D is not recommended as detailed and complex tasks can be overwhelming and may contribute to increased stress and agitation in a manic episode.
3. A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is being cared for by a nurse. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- A. Encourage the client to suppress compulsive behaviors.
- B. Set strict limits on the amount of time the client can engage in compulsive behaviors.
- C. Allow the client to perform compulsive behaviors as needed.
- D. Gradually limit the amount of time allotted for compulsive behaviors.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In caring for a client with OCD, it is essential to gradually limit the time allotted for compulsive behaviors. This intervention helps the client develop alternative coping mechanisms. Encouraging suppression or setting strict limits on compulsive behaviors can exacerbate the client's anxiety, making it crucial to approach the care plan with a gradual reduction strategy. Allowing the client to perform compulsive behaviors as needed does not promote progress towards managing OCD symptoms and may reinforce maladaptive patterns of behavior.
4. Before discharge from the chemical dependency unit, clients are introduced to different community resources. Which of the following resources would be best for a teenage client, who has been abusing over-the-counter sedatives and is ready for discharge in two days?
- A. Detoxification center
- B. Home care
- C. Assertive community team
- D. Twelve-step recovery group
Correct answer: A
Rationale: For a teenage client who has been abusing over-the-counter sedatives and is ready for discharge in two days, the best resource would be a detoxification center. This specialized facility can provide the necessary medical and psychological support to safely manage the withdrawal symptoms associated with substance abuse. It is crucial to ensure a safe and supervised detox process for the client's well-being and successful recovery.
5. A healthcare provider is assessing a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which of the following findings should the healthcare provider expect? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Restlessness
- B. Fatigue
- C. Excessive worry
- D. Mania
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), common symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, and excessive worry. These symptoms are typical in individuals with GAD due to persistent and excessive anxiety. Mania, on the other hand, is not a characteristic symptom of GAD. Mania is associated with bipolar disorder and is characterized by distinct features like elevated mood, grandiosity, and impulsivity. Therefore, the correct answer is 'D: Mania,' as it does not align with the expected findings in generalized anxiety disorder.
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