Mental Health Exam

ATI Mental Health Exam

Total Questions : 86

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Question 1: View

A nurse in an acute mental health unit is caring for a group of clients. For which of the following clients is seclusion contraindicated?

Explanation

A. An adolescent client who throws objects at other clients:

Explanation: Seclusion is contraindicated for this client due to safety concerns. The behavior of throwing objects at others indicates a potential danger to both the client and others in a confined space. Placing the client in seclusion could escalate the situation and potentially lead to further harm.

B. An older adult client who is manic and crying due to overstimulation:

Explanation: Seclusion might be contraindicated for this client as well. Older adults experiencing manic behavior and emotional distress could be further traumatized by seclusion. Alternatives like providing a calm and soothing environment, along with appropriate medications, might be more beneficial for this client.

C. A school-age client who attempts to repeatedly bite staff:

Explanation: Seclusion is a potential option for this client. The repeated attempts to bite staff pose a risk of physical harm to both the client and staff members. Seclusion might be used as a last resort to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

D. An adult client following a suicide attempt:

Explanation: Seclusion is generally contraindicated for clients who have attempted suicide. Placing them in isolation can worsen feelings of despair and isolation, potentially increasing the risk of self-harm or suicide. These clients require close monitoring, support, and therapeutic interventions to address the underlying issues.


Question 2: View

A nurse is caring for a client who has severe manifestations of schizophrenia and is medicated PRN for agitation with haloperidol. The nurse should assess the client for which of the following adverse effects?

Explanation

A. Bleeding:

Explanation: Bleeding is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol, which is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia. Haloperidol primarily works on the central nervous system and is not known to directly cause bleeding issues.

B. Cataracts:

Explanation: Cataracts are not a common adverse effect of haloperidol either. While long-term use of some antipsychotic medications can lead to metabolic and endocrine disturbances, which might indirectly impact eye health, cataracts are not a direct and immediate concern with haloperidol use.

C. Dysrhythmias:

Explanation: Correct Answer. Haloperidol has the potential to cause cardiac-related adverse effects, including dysrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms). This is a particular concern in individuals who are predisposed to heart conditions or have other risk factors. The medication can prolong the QT interval, which is a measure of the time it takes for the heart's electrical system to recharge between beats. Prolonged QT interval can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.

D. Pancreatitis:

Explanation: Pancreatitis is not a common adverse effect of haloperidol. Pancreatitis typically involves inflammation of the pancreas and can be caused by various factors such as gallstones, alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Haloperidol is not known to directly cause inflammation of the pancreas.


Question 3: View

A nurse is preparing to minister amoxicillin 350 mg PO. Available is amoxicillin 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL should the nurse administer? (Round to the nearest whole number.)

Explanation

To calculate the volume (mL) of amoxicillin needed, you can use the following formula:

Volume (mL) = Dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL)

Given that the dose is 350 mg and the concentration is 250 mg/5 mL:

Volume (mL) = 350 mg / 250 mg/5 mL

First, calculate the concentration of amoxicillin in mg/mL:

250 mg / 5 mL = 50 mg/mL

Now, use the calculated concentration to find the volume:

Volume (mL) = 350 mg / 50 mg/mL = 7 mL

So, the nurse should administer 7 mL of amoxicillin.


Question 4: View

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has bipolar disorder and will be discharged with a prescription for lithium. The nurse could teach the client which of the following factors puts her at risk for lithium toxicity?

Explanation

A. A client runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon:

Explanation: Physical activity or exercise, such as running, does not inherently put the client at risk for lithium toxicity. However, excessive sweating due to vigorous exercise can lead to dehydration, which could affect lithium levels. Dehydration may lead to reduced kidney function, which could slow the excretion of lithium, potentially increasing the risk of toxicity.

B. The client eats 2 to 3 gm of sodium-containing foods daily:

Explanation: Correct Answer. High sodium intake can affect the balance of sodium and lithium in the body. When sodium levels are low, the kidneys might reabsorb more lithium, potentially leading to elevated lithium levels and toxicity. It's important to note that consistent sodium intake is crucial, as sudden increases or decreases can impact lithium levels.

C. The client drinks 2 liters of liquids daily:

Explanation: Adequate fluid intake is generally important, but it is not a direct risk factor for lithium toxicity. In fact, staying hydrated can be beneficial for overall health and proper kidney function, which plays a role in lithium excretion.

D. The client eats foods high in tyramine:

Explanation: Foods high in tyramine are a concern when taking certain classes of antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Lithium does not interact with tyramine-containing foods in the same way. Tyramine-rich foods are associated with a "cheese effect" when combined with MAOIs, but this is not relevant to lithium toxicity.


Question 5: View

A nurse is making a home visit to a client who has Alzheimer's disease and the client's partner. Which of the following observations indicates to the nurse that the partner is experiencing caregiver role strain?

Explanation

A. The partner has placed locks at the top of the doors leading to the outside:

Explanation: Placing locks at the top of doors leading outside is a safety measure to prevent the person with Alzheimer's disease from wandering or getting lost. While this does show that the partner is taking proactive steps to ensure the client's safety, it is not necessarily indicative of caregiver role strain.

B. The partner has hired a house cleaner:

Explanation: Hiring a house cleaner can be a sign of caregiver role strain. Caregivers often become overwhelmed with the responsibilities of caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease, and hiring help for household tasks can be an indication that they are finding it challenging to manage everything on their own.

C. The partner has lost 20 lb in the past 2 months:

Explanation: Rapid weight loss can be a sign of caregiver stress or burnout. The emotional and physical demands of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease can lead to neglect of one's own well-being, including proper nutrition and self-care.

D. The partner redirects the client when the client is frustrated:

Explanation: While redirecting the client when they're frustrated shows that the partner is using appropriate strategies to manage challenging behaviors associated with Alzheimer's disease, this observation doesn't necessarily indicate caregiver role strain.


Question 6: View

A nurse is preparing to administer haloperidol 75 mg IM per week. Available is haloperidol decanoate 100mg/ml for injection. How many ml should the nurse administer per dose? (Round the answer to the nearest hundredth. Use a leading zero if it applies.

Explanation

To calculate the volume (ml) of haloperidol decanoate needed for a dose of 75 mg, you can use the following formula:

Volume (ml) = Dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/ml)

Given:

Dose = 75 mg

Concentration = 100 mg/ml

Plugging in the values:

Volume (ml) = 75 mg / 100 mg/ml

Volume (ml) = 0.75 ml

Rounding to the nearest hundredth:

Volume (ml) = 0.75 ml

So, the nurse should administer 0.75 ml of haloperidol decanoate for the dose of 75 mg.


Question 7: View

A nurse is caring for a young adult client who says he is experiencing increased anxiety and an inability to concentrate. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Explanation

A. "How long has this been going on?":

Explanation: Correct Answer. This response is appropriate because it seeks to gather more information about the duration of the client's symptoms. Understanding the timeline can help the nurse assess the severity and potential causes of the anxiety and concentration issues.

B. "Why do you think you are so anxious?":

Explanation: While it's important to understand the client's perspective, this response might come across as confrontational or judgmental. It's better to create an open and non-judgmental environment for the client to share their feelings.

C. "Have you talked to your parents about this yet?":

Explanation: This response assumes that the client has parents to talk to and may not be relevant for all clients. It's also important to establish trust and rapport with the client before asking about their support network.

D. "It sounds like you're having a difficult time.":

Explanation: This response validates the client's feelings and provides empathy. While it's empathetic, it might not prompt further discussion to gather more information about the situation, which is important for a comprehensive assessment.


Question 8: View

A nurse is admitting a client who has multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Shortly after admission, the client's partner arrives. He is distraught and blames himself for the accident. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Explanation

A. "I think you should calm down a little before you see your partner.":

Explanation: This response might come across as dismissive or insensitive to the partner's feelings. It's important to acknowledge the partner's emotions and offer support rather than suggesting they should calm down.

B. "Do not worry about that. Your wife will be fine.":

Explanation: While it's reassuring to say that the patient will be fine, dismissing the partner's feelings and concerns is not supportive. The partner needs a chance to express their emotions and concerns.

C. "Tell me more about your feelings about what happened to your partner.":

Explanation: Correct Answer. This response is empathetic and encourages the partner to express their emotions. It shows that the nurse is actively listening and is willing to provide a safe space for the partner to share their feelings.

D. "Why do you think the crash is your fault?":

Explanation: This response might come across as accusatory or confrontational, which could exacerbate the partner's feelings of guilt. Instead, the nurse should focus on providing support and understanding.


Question 9: View

A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for chlorpromazine. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Explanation

A. "I may have a dry mouth while taking this medication.":

Explanation: Correct Answer. Dry mouth is a common side effect of chlorpromazine, which is a typical antipsychotic medication. This statement indicates that the client understands the potential side effects of the medication.

B. "This medication will help me stop smoking.":

Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Chlorpromazine is not used as a medication to aid in smoking cessation. It is primarily used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

C. "I should expect flu-like symptoms while taking this medication.":

Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Flu-like symptoms are not a common side effect of chlorpromazine. Side effects more commonly associated with chlorpromazine include drowsiness, dizziness, and movement-related issues.

D. "This medication may cause me to urinate frequently.":

Explanation: This statement is incorrect. While chlorpromazine can cause various side effects, increased frequency of urination is not one of the typical side effects associated with this medication.


Question 10: View

A nurse is caring for a client who is having difficulty sleeping and is pacing the floor. The client's head down, and he is wringing his hands. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Explanation

Remaining with the client provides support and ensures their safety. The client's behavior indicates distress, and having a nurse nearby can help the client feel more comfortable and secure.

B. Give the client a PRN sleeping medication:

Explanation: Administering a sleeping medication should not be the first response, especially if the client is agitated. It's important to address the underlying cause of the agitation and consider other interventions before resorting to medication.

C. Encourage the client to go back to bed:

Explanation: Encouraging the client to go back to bed might not be effective if they are experiencing significant distress or anxiety. It's better to address their emotional state first before suggesting any changes in activity.

D. Explore alternatives to pacing the floor with the client:

Explanation: This is a reasonable course of action. Exploring alternatives to the client's current behavior can help address their distress and find ways to manage their emotions more effectively.


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