ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023
1. Therapeutic communication is the foundation of a patient-centered interview. Which of the following techniques is not considered therapeutic?
- A. Restating
- B. Encouraging description of perception
- C. Summarizing
- D. Asking 'why' questions
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Asking 'why' questions is not considered a therapeutic technique in patient-centered communication as it can make patients feel defensive or judged. 'Why' questions may imply criticism or put the patient on the spot, potentially hindering open and honest communication. Instead, focusing on open-ended questions that encourage patients to express their feelings and thoughts without feeling judged or interrogated is more conducive to therapeutic communication.
2. A client is diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?
- A. Excessive worry about physical symptoms
- B. Fear of gaining weight
- C. Frequent visits to healthcare providers
- D. Persistent depressive mood
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Individuals with somatic symptom disorder often exhibit frequent visits to healthcare providers due to their excessive worry about physical symptoms. They seek reassurance and explanations for their perceived medical issues, even when there is no organic basis for their complaints. This behavior is a characteristic feature of somatic symptom disorder and distinguishes it from other conditions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Excessive worry about physical symptoms may occur but it is not the primary behavior associated with this disorder. Fear of gaining weight is more characteristic of eating disorders, and persistent depressive mood is more indicative of mood disorders rather than somatic symptom disorder.
3. What information should the nurse provide in patient education for a patient prescribed sertraline for major depressive disorder?
- A. Take the medication with food.
- B. It may take several weeks to feel the full effect.
- C. Avoid consuming grapefruit while taking this medication.
- D. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor levels.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Patients prescribed sertraline for major depressive disorder should be educated that it may take several weeks before experiencing the full therapeutic effects of the medication. This delay in onset of action is common with antidepressants like sertraline, and patients need to be aware of this to manage their expectations and continue with the treatment regimen. It's important for the patient to understand that consistent adherence to the prescribed dosage is crucial, even if the full effects are not immediately apparent. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because taking the medication with food, avoiding grapefruit, and regular blood tests are not specific education points related to the expected timeframe for therapeutic effects of sertraline.
4. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client experiencing severe anxiety?
- A. Encourage the client to talk about their feelings.
- B. Provide a quiet and calm environment.
- C. Encourage the client to exercise vigorously.
- D. Encourage the client to participate in group activities.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In cases of severe anxiety, creating a quiet and calm environment is crucial as it can help reduce stimulation and promote relaxation. This environment can provide a sense of safety and security, which are essential for individuals experiencing heightened anxiety levels. Encouraging the client to talk about their feelings may not be suitable during severe anxiety as it can further escalate distress by focusing on the source of anxiety. Vigorous exercise and group activities may not be appropriate initially, as they can increase arousal levels rather than promoting a sense of calm needed to manage severe anxiety.
5. A client with borderline personality disorder is admitted to the psychiatric unit. Which intervention should the nurse implement to promote the client's safety?
- A. Implement a no-harm contract with the client.
- B. Monitor the client closely for signs of self-harm.
- C. Encourage the client to participate in recreational activities.
- D. Encourage the client to maintain a structured daily routine.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client with borderline personality disorder is admitted to a psychiatric unit, implementing a no-harm contract is a crucial intervention to promote the client's safety. A no-harm contract is a formal agreement between the client and the healthcare provider stating that the client commits to not harm themselves or others. This intervention helps in establishing boundaries and promoting safety by enhancing communication and accountability between the client and the healthcare team. Monitoring the client closely for signs of self-harm (Choice B) is important but does not directly address promoting safety through a formal agreement. Encouraging participation in recreational activities (Choice C) and maintaining a structured daily routine (Choice D) are beneficial interventions but may not directly address the immediate safety concerns of a client with borderline personality disorder.
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