ATI RN
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023
1. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching regarding the treatment of major depressive disorder?
- A. I have been on this antidepressant for 3 days. I understand that the full effect may take weeks to occur.
- B. I am going to ask my nurse practitioner to discontinue my Prozac today and let me start taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor tomorrow.
- C. I may ask to have my medication changed to Wellbutrin due to the problems I am having being romantic with my wife.
- D. I realize that there are many antidepressants and it might take a while until we find the one that works best for me.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Choice B indicates a need for further teaching because the patient is planning to switch directly from Prozac, an SSRI, to a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) without allowing for a washout period. This abrupt switch poses a risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to educate the patient about the importance of consulting healthcare providers before changing medications to prevent potential adverse effects.
2. Which of the following are potential side effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Short-term memory loss
- B. Headache
- C. Confusion
- D. Tardive dyskinesia
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Potential side effects of ECT include short-term memory loss, headache, confusion, and nausea. Tardive dyskinesia is not a side effect of ECT; it is associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications, particularly antipsychotics that block dopamine receptors over time. ECT is primarily used for severe depression, bipolar disorder, and certain psychotic disorders. The other choices, short-term memory loss, headache, and confusion, are known side effects of ECT and are usually short-term and manageable.
3. A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder is prescribed an SSRI. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for in the initial weeks of treatment?
- A. Weight loss
- B. Increased risk of suicide
- C. Hypertension
- D. Photosensitivity
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a client is prescribed an SSRI for major depressive disorder, the nurse should closely monitor for an increased risk of suicide, especially in younger patients, during the initial weeks of treatment. SSRIs may initially increase energy levels before improving mood, which can lead to a higher risk of suicide in some individuals. Weight loss is not a common side effect of SSRIs and may actually be a concern for some patients with major depressive disorder who experience appetite changes. Hypertension is not typically associated with SSRIs, and photosensitivity is not a common side effect of this class of medications.
4. A client with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
- A. Encourage the client to ignore the flashbacks.
- B. Stay with the client and offer reassurance.
- C. Instruct the client to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
- D. Encourage the client to engage in group therapy.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: During a flashback, it is essential for the nurse to stay with the client and offer reassurance. This approach can help the client feel safe and supported during a distressing experience. Encouraging the client to ignore the flashbacks may lead to increased anxiety and distress. Instructing the client to avoid discussing the traumatic event can hinder the therapeutic process of addressing and processing the trauma. While group therapy can be beneficial, it may not be the immediate intervention needed during a flashback.
5. Which of the following symptoms should a healthcare professional expect to assess in a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Loss of interest or pleasure
- B. Decreased ability to concentrate
- C. Significant weight loss or gain
- D. Increased energy
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Symptoms of major depressive disorder include a loss of interest or pleasure, decreased ability to concentrate, significant weight loss or gain, and feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. Increased energy is not typically associated with major depressive disorder; instead, fatigue is more common. Clients with major depressive disorder often experience a lack of energy, motivation, or enthusiasm, leading to feelings of lethargy and fatigue. Therefore, increased energy is an atypical symptom in major depressive disorder, making it the correct answer.
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