NCLEX Mental Health
NCLEX Mental Health
NCLEX Mental Health
this phase?
1. Planning short-term goals
2. Making appropriate referrals
3. Developing realistic solutions
4. Identifying expected outcomes
2. Making appropriate referrals
10.
The nurse in the mental health unit recognizes which
as being therapeutic communication techniques? Select all
that apply.
1. Restating
2. Listening
3. Asking the client, "Why?"
4. Maintaining neutral responses
5. Providing acknowledgment and feedback
6. Giving advice and approval or disapproval
o 1. Restating
o 2. Listening
o 4. Maintaining neutral responses
o 5. Providing acknowledgment and feedback
11.
A client being seen in the emergency department
immediately after being sexually assaulted appears calm
and controlled. The nurse analyzes this behavior as
indicating which defense mechanism?
1. Denial
2. Projection
3. Rationalization
4. Intellectualization
1. Denial
12.
A client's unresolved feelings related to loss would
be most likely observed during which phase of the
therapeutic nurse-client relationship?
1. Trusting
2. Working
3. Orientation
4. Termination
4. Termination
13.
The nurse is working with a client who despite making
a heroic effort was unable to rescue a neighbor trapped in a
house fire. Which client-focused action should the nurse
engage in during the working phase of the nurse-client
relationship?
1. Exploring the client's ability to function
2. Exploring the client's potential for self-harm
3. Inquiring about the client's perception or appraisal of
why the rescue was unsuccessful
4. Inquiring about and examining the client's feelings for
any that may block adaptive coping
4. Inquiring about and examining the client's feelings for any that may block adaptive
coping
14.
The nurse employed in a mental health unit of a
hospital is the leader of a group psychotherapy session.
What is the nurse's role during the termination stage of
group development?
1. Acknowledging that the group has identified goals
2. Encouraging the accomplishment of the group's work
3. Acknowledging the contributions of each group member
15.
Which are characteristics of the termination stage of
group development? Select all that apply.
1. The group evaluates the experience.
2. The real work of the group is accomplished.
3. Group interaction involves superficial conversation.
4. Group members become acquainted with each other.
5. Some structuring of group norms, roles, and
responsibilities takes place.
6. The group explores members' feelings about the group
and the impending separation.
o 1. The group evaluates the experience.
o 6. The group explores members' feelings about the group and the impending
separation.
16.
When a client is admitted to an inpatient mental health
unit with the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, a cognitive
behavioral approach is used as part of the treatment plan.
The nurse understands that which is the purpose of this
approach?
1. Providing a supportive environment
2. Examining intrapsychic conflicts and past issues
3. Emphasizing social interaction with clients who
withdraw
4. Helping the client to examine dysfunctional thoughts and
beliefs
4. Helping the client to examine dysfunctional thoughts and beliefs
17.
The nurse understands that which best describes
Gestalt therapy?
1. It emphasizes self-expression, self-exploration, and selfawareness in the present.
2. It promotes the individual's comfort in the group, which
then transfers to other relationships.
3. The therapist focuses on how irrational beliefs and
thoughts contribute to psychological distress.
4. The therapist's goal is to help others express their
feelings toward one another during group sessions.
1. It emphasizes self-expression, self-exploration, and self-awareness in the present.
18.
A client is preparing to attend a Gamblers Anonymous
meeting for the first time. The nurse should tell the client
that which is the first step in this 12-step program?
1. Admitting to having a problem
2. Substituting other activities for gambling
3. Stating that the gambling will be stopped
4. Discontinuing relationships with people who gamble
1. Admitting to having a problem
19.
Which describes the primary focus of milieu therapy?
1. A form of behavior modification therapy
2. A cognitive approach to changing behavior
3. A living, learning, or working environment
4. A behavioral approach to changing behavior
3. A living, learning, or working environment
20.
While being treated, a client is introduced to short
periods of exposure to the phobic object while in a relaxed
state. What term is used to describe this form of behavior
modification?
1. Milieu therapy
2. Aversion therapy
3. Self-control therapy
4. Systematic desensitization
4. Systematic desensitization
21.
A client is planning to attend Overeaters Anonymous.
Which statement by the client indicates a need for
additional information regarding this self-help group?
1. "The leader is a nurse or psychiatrist."
2. "The members provide support to each other."
3. "People who have a similar problem are able to help
others."
4. "It is designed to serve people who have a common
problem."
1. "The leader is a nurse or psychiatrist."
22.
What is the most appropriate nursing action to help
manage a manic client who is monopolizing a group
therapy session?
1. Ask the client to leave the group for this session only.
2. Refer the client to another group that includes other
manic clients.
3. Tell the client to stop monopolizing in a firm but
compassionate manner.
4. Thank the client for the input, but inform the client that
now others need a chance to contribute.
4. Thank the client for the input, but inform the client that now others need a chance to
contribute.
23.
Which type of therapeutic approach has the
characteristic that all team members are seen as equally
important in helping clients meet their goals?
1. Milieu therapy
2. Interpersonal therapy
3. Behavior modification
4. Rational emotive therapy
1. Milieu therapy
24.
A client says to the nurse, "The federal guards were
sent to kill me." What is the best nursing response to the
client's concern?
1. "I don't believe this is true."
2. "The guards are not out to kill you."
3. "Do you feel afraid that people are trying to hurt you?"
4. "What makes you think the guards were sent to hurt
you?"
3. "Do you feel afraid that people are trying to hurt you?"
25.
A client diagnosed with delirium becomes disoriented
and confused at night. Which intervention should the nurse
implement initially?
1. Move the client next to the nurse's station.
2. Use an indirect light source and turn off the television.
3. Keep the television and a soft light on during the night.
4. Play soft music during the night, and maintain a well-lit
room.
2. Use an indirect light source and turn off the television.
26.
A client is admitted to the mental health unit with a
diagnosis of depression. The nurse should develop a plan of
27.
When planning the discharge of a client with chronic
anxiety, the nurse directs the goals at promoting a safe
environment at home. Which is the most
appropriate maintenance goal?
1. Suppressing feelings of anxiety
2. Identifying anxiety-producing situations
3. Continued contact with a crisis counselor
4. Eliminating all anxiety from daily situations
2. Identifying anxiety-producing situations
28.
A client is unwilling to go out of the house for fear of
"making a fool of myself in public." Because of this fear,
the client remains homebound. Based on these data, which
mental health disorder is the client experiencing?
1. Agoraphobia
2. Social phobia
3. Claustrophobia
4. Hypochondriasis
2. Social phobia
29.
The nurse is conducting a group therapy session.
During the session, a client diagnosed with mania
consistently disrupts the group's interactions. Which
intervention should the nurse initially implement?
1. Setting limits on the client's behavior
2. Asking the client to leave the group session
3. Asking another nurse to escort the client out of the group
session
4. Telling the client that they will not be able to attend any
future group sessions
1. Setting limits on the client's behavior
30.
A client is admitted to a medical nursing unit with a
diagnosis of acute blindness after being involved in a hitand-run accident. When diagnostic testing cannot identify
any organic reason why this client cannot see, a mental
health consult is prescribed. Which condition will be the
focus of this consult?
1. Psychosis
2. Repression
3. Conversion disorder
4. Dissociative disorder
3. Conversion disorder
31.
A manic client begins to make sexual advance towards
visitors in the dayroom. When the nurse firmly states that
this is inappropriate and will not be allowed, the client
becomes verbally abusive and threatens physical violence
to the nurse. Based on the analysis of this situation, which
intervention should the nurse implement?
1. Place the client in seclusion for 30 minutes.
32.
Which nursing interventions are appropriate for a
hospitalized client with mania who is exhibiting
manipulative behavior? Select all that apply.
1. Communicate expected behaviors to the client.
2. Ensure that the client knows that they are not in charge
of the nursing unit.
3. Assist the client in identifying ways of setting limits on
personal behaviors.
4. Follow through about the consequences of behavior in a
nonpunitive manner.
5. Enforce rules by informing the client that they will not
be allowed to attend therapy groups.
6. Have the client state the consequences for behaving in
ways that are viewed as unacceptable.
o 1. Communicate expected behaviors to the client.
o 3. Assist the client in identifying ways of setting limits on personal behaviors.
o 4. Follow through about the consequences of behavior in a nonpunitive manner.
o 6. Have the client state the consequences for behaving in ways that are viewed as
unacceptable.
33.
The nurse observes that a client is pacing, agitated,
and presenting aggressive gestures. The client's speech
pattern is rapid, and affect is belligerent. Based on these
34.
The nurse is preparing a client with a history of
command hallucinations for discharge by providing
instructions on interventions for managing hallucinations
and anxiety. Which statement in response to these
instructions suggests to the nurse that the client understands
the instructions?
1. "My medications aren't likely to make me anxious."
2. "I'll go to support group and talk so that I don't hurt
anyone."
3. "It's not likely that I'll get anxious or hear things if I get
enough sleep and eat well."
4. "When I begin to hallucinate, I'll call my therapist and
talk about what I should do."
4. "When I begin to hallucinate, I'll call my therapist and talk about what I should do."
35.
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with
catatonic stupor who is lying on the bed in a fetal position.
What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
1. Ask direct questions to encourage talking.
2. Leave the client alone so as to minimize external stimuli.
36.
The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing
disturbed thought processes as a result of paranoia. In
formulating nursing interventions with the members of the
health care team, what best instruction should the nurse
provide to the staff?
1. Increase socialization of the client with peers.
2. Avoid laughing or whispering in front of the client.
3. Begin to educate the client about social supports in the
community.
4. Have the client sign a release of information to
appropriate parties for assessment purposes.
2. Avoid laughing or whispering in front of the client.
37.
The nurse is planning activities for a client diagnosed
with bipolar disorder with aggressive social behavior.
Which activity would be most appropriate for this client?
1. Chess
2. Writing
3. Ping pong
4. Basketball
2. Writing
38.
The home health nurse visits a client at home and
determines that the client is dependent on drugs. During the
assessment, which action should the nurse take to plan
39.
Which interventions are most appropriate for caring
for a client in alcohol withdrawal? Select all that apply.
1. Monitor vital signs.
2. Maintain NPO status.
3. Provide a safe environment.
4. Address hallucinations therapeutically.
5. Provide stimulation in the environment.
6. Provide reality orientation as appropriate.
o 1. Monitor vital signs.
o 3. Provide a safe environment.
o 4. Address hallucinations therapeutically.
o 6. Provide reality orientation as appropriate.
40.
The nurse determines that the wife of an alcoholic
client is benefiting from attending an Al-Anon group if the
nurse hears the wife make which statement?
1. "I no longer feel that I deserve the beatings my husband
inflicts on me."
2. "My attendance at the meetings has helped me to see that
I provoke my husband's violence."
41.
A hospitalized client with a history of alcohol abuse
tells the nurse, "I am leaving now. I have to go. I don't want
any more treatment. I have things that I have to do right
away." The client has not been discharged and is scheduled
for an important diagnostic test to be performed in 1 hour.
After the nurse discusses the client's concerns with the
client, the client dresses and begins to walk out of the
hospital room. What action should the nurse take?
1. Call the nursing supervisor.
2. Call security to block all exit areas.
3. Restrain the client until the health care provider (HCP)
can be reached.
4. Tell the client that the client cannot return to this hospital
again if the client leaves now.
1. Call the nursing supervisor.
42.
The nurse is preparing to perform an admission
assessment on a client with a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa.
Which assessment findings does the nurse expect to
note? Select all that apply.
1. Dental decay
2. Moist oily skin
3. Loss of tooth enamel
4. Electrolyte imbalances
5. Body weight well below ideal range
o 1. Dental decay
o 3. Loss of tooth enamel
o 4. Electrolyte imbalances
43.
The nurse is caring for a female client who was
admitted to the mental health unit recently for anorexia
nervosa. The nurse enters the client's room and notes that
the client is engaged in rigorous push-ups. Which nursing
action is most appropriate?
1. Interrupt the client and weigh her immediately.
2. Interrupt the client and offer to take her for a walk.
3. Allow the client to complete her exercise program.
4. Tell the client that she is not allowed to exercise
rigorously.
2. Interrupt the client and offer to take her for a walk.
44.
A client with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, who is
in a state of starvation, is in a two-bed room. A newly
admitted client will be assigned to this client's room. Which
client would be the best choice as a roommate for the client
with anorexia nervosa?
1. A client with pneumonia
2. A client undergoing diagnostic tests
3. A client who thrives on managing others
4. A client who could benefit from the client's assistance at
mealtime
2. A client undergoing diagnostic tests
45.
The nurse is monitoring a hospitalized client who
abuses alcohol. Which findings should alert the nurse to the
potential for alcohol withdrawal delirium?
46.
The spouse of a client admitted to the mental health
unit for alcohol withdrawal says to the nurse, "I should get
out of this bad situation." What is the most helpful
response by the nurse?
1. "Why don't you tell your wife about this?"
2. "What do you find difficult about this situation?"
3. "This is not the best time to make that decision."
4. "I agree with you. You should get out of this situation."
2. "What do you find difficult about this situation?"
47.
A client with anorexia nervosa is a member of a
predischarge support group. The client verbalizes that she
would like to buy some new clothes, but her finances are
limited. Group members have brought some used clothes to
the client to replace the client's old clothes. The client
believes that the new clothes were much too tight and has
reduced her calorie intake to 800 calories daily. How
should the nurse evaluate this behavior?
1. Normal behavior
2. Evidence of the client's disturbed body image
3. Regression as the client is moving toward the community
4. Indicative of the client's ambivalence about hospital
discharge
48.
The nurse in the emergency department is caring for a
young female victim of sexual assault. The client's physical
assessment is complete, and physical evidence has been
collected. The nurse notes that the client is withdrawn,
confused, and at times physically immobile. How should
the nurse interpret these behaviors?
1. Signs of depression
2. Normal reactions to a devastating event
3. Evidence that the client is a high suicide risk
4. Indicative of the need for hospital admission
2. Normal reactions to a devastating event
49.
The nurse is reviewing the assessment data of a client
admitted to the mental health unit. The nurse notes that the
admission nurse documented that the client is experiencing
anxiety as a result of a situational crisis. The nurse
determines that this type of crisis could be caused by which
event?
1. Witnessing a murder
2. The death of a loved one
3. A fire that destroyed the client's home
4. A recent rape episode experienced by the client
2. The death of a loved one
50.
The nurse is conducting an initial assessment on a
client in crisis. When assessing the client's perception of the
precipitating event that led to the crisis, what is the most
appropriate question?
1. "With whom do you live?"
51.
The nurse is developing a plan of care for a client in a
crisis state. When developing the plan, the nurse should
consider which factor?
1. A crisis state indicates that the client has a mental illness.
2. A crisis state indicates that the client has an emotional
illness.
3. Presenting symptoms in a crisis situation are similar for
all clients experiencing a crisis.
4. A client's response to a crisis is individualized and what
constitutes a crisis for one client may not constitute a crisis
for another client.
4. A client's response to a crisis is individualized and what constitutes a crisis for one
client may not constitute a crisis for another client.
52.
The nurse observes that a client with a potential for
violence is agitated, pacing up and down the hallway, and is
making aggressive and belligerent gestures at other clients.
Which statement would be most appropriate to make to
this client?
1. "You need to stop that behavior now."
2. "You will need to be placed in seclusion."
3. "You seem restless; tell me what is happening."
4. "You will need to be restrained if you do not change your
behavior."
3. "You seem restless; tell me what is happening."
53.
A depressed client on an inpatient unit says to the
nurse, "My family would be better off without me." What is
the nurse's best response?
1. "Have you talked to your family about this?"
2. "Everyone feels this way when they are depressed."
3. "You will feel better once your medication begins to
work."
4. "You sound very upset. Are you thinking of hurting
yourself?"
4. "You sound very upset. Are you thinking of hurting yourself?"
54.
The nurse has been observing a client closely who has
been displaying aggressive behaviors. The nurse observes
that the behavior displayed by the client is escalating.
Which nursing intervention is least helpful to this client at
this time?
1. Initiate confinement measures.
2. Acknowledge the client's behavior.
3. Assist the client to an area that is quiet.
4. Maintain a safe distance from the client.
1. Initiate confinement measures.
55.
Which behavior observed by the nurse indicates a
suspicion that a depressed adolescent client may be
suicidal?
1. The adolescent gives away a DVD and a cherished
autographed picture of a performer.
2. The adolescent runs out of the therapy group, swearing at
the group leader, and runs to her room.
3. The adolescent becomes angry while speaking on the
telephone and slams down the receiver.
56.
The police arrive at the emergency department with a
client who has lacerated both wrists. What is
the initial nursing action?
1. Administer an antianxiety agent.
2. Examine and treat the wound sites.
3. Secure and record a detailed history.
4. Encourage and assist the client to ventilate feelings.
2. Examine and treat the wound sites.
57.
A moderately depressed client who was hospitalized 2
days ago suddenly begins smiling and reporting that the
crisis is over. The client says to the nurse, "I'm finally
cured." How should the nurse interpret this behavior as a
cue to modify the treatment plan?
1. Suggesting a reduction of medication
2. Allowing increased "in-room" activities
3. Increasing the level of suicide precautions
4. Allowing the client off-unit privileges as needed
3. Increasing the level of suicide precautions
58.
The nurse is planning care for a client being admitted
to the nursing unit who attempted suicide.
Which priority nursing intervention should the nurse
include in the plan of care?
1. One-to-one suicide precautions
2. Suicide precautions with 30-minute checks
59.
The emergency department nurse is caring for an adult
client who is a victim of family violence.
Which priority instruction should be included in the
discharge instructions?
1. Information regarding shelters
2. Instructions regarding calling the police
3. Instructions regarding self-defense classes
4. Explaining the importance of leaving the violent
situation
1. Information regarding shelters
60.
A female victim of a sexual assault is being seen in the
crisis center. The client states that she still feels "as though
the rape just happened yesterday," even though it has been
a few months since the incident. What is the most
appropriate nursing response?
1. "You need to try to be realistic. The rape did not just
occur."
2. "It will take some time to get over these feelings about
your rape."
3. "Tell me more about the incident that causes you to feel
like the rape just occurred."
4. "What do you think that you can do to alleviate some of
your fears about being raped again?"
3. "Tell me more about the incident that causes you to feel like the rape just occurred."
61.
A client is admitted to the mental health unit after an
attempted suicide by hanging. The nurse can best ensure
client safety by which action?
1. Requesting that a peer remain with the client at all times
2. Removing the client's clothing and placing the client in a
hospital gown
3. Assigning a staff member to the client who will remain
with the client at all times
4. Admitting the client to a seclusion room where all
potentially dangerous articles are removed
3. Assigning a staff member to the client who will remain with the client at all times
62.
A client is admitted with a recent history of severe
anxiety following a home invasion and robbery. During the
initial assessment interview, which statement by the client
would indicate to the nurse the possible diagnosis of
posttraumatic stress disorder? Select all that apply.
1. "I'm afraid of spiders."
2. "I keep reliving the robbery."
3. "I see his face everywhere I go."
4. "I don't want anything to eat now."
5. "I might have died over a few dollars in my pocket."
6. "I have to wash my hands over and over again many
times."
o 2. "I keep reliving the robbery."
o 3. "I see his face everywhere I go."
o 5. "I might have died over a few dollars in my pocket."
63.
The emergency department nurse is caring for a client
who has been identified as a victim of physical abuse. In
64.
The nurse assesses a client with the admitting
diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder, mania. Which client
symptoms require the nurse's immediate action?
1. Incessant talking and sexual innuendoes
2. Grandiose delusions and poor concentration
3. Outlandish behaviors and inappropriate dress
4. Nonstop physical activity and poor nutritional intake
4. Nonstop physical activity and poor nutritional intake
65.
The nurse is performing an assessment on a client with
dementia. Which data gathered during the assessment
indicates a manifestation associated with dementia?
1. Uses confabulation
2. Improvement in sleeping
3. Absence of sundown syndrome
4. Presence of personal hygienic care
1. Uses confabulation
66.
The nurse is caring for a client with anorexia nervosa.
Which behavior is characteristic of this disorder and
reflects anxiety management?
1. Engaging in immoral acts
2. Always reinforcing self-approval
67.
A depressed client verbalizes feelings of low selfesteem and self-worth typified by statements such as "I'm
such a failure. I can't do anything right." How should the
nurse plan on responding to the client's statement?
1. Reassure the client that things will get better.
2. Tell the client that this is not true and that we all have a
purpose in life.
3. Identify recent behaviors or accomplishments that
demonstrate the client's skills.
4. Remain with the client and sit in silence; this will
encourage the client to verbalize feelings.
3. Identify recent behaviors or accomplishments that demonstrate the client's skills.
68.
A client with diabetes mellitus is told that amputation
of the leg is necessary to sustain life. The client is very
upset and tells the nurse, "This is all my health care
provider's fault. I have done everything I've been asked to
do!" Which nursing interpretation is best for this situation?
1. An expected coping mechanism
2. An ineffective coping mechanism
3. A need to notify the hospital lawyer
4. An expression of guilt on the part of the client
1. An expected coping mechanism
69.
A client experiencing a great deal of stress and anxiety
is being taught to use self-control therapy. Which statement
by the client indicates a need for further teaching about
the therapy?
1. "This form of therapy can be applied to new situations."
2. "An advantage of this technique is that change is likely
to last."
3. "Talking to oneself is a basic component of this form of
therapy."
4. "This form of therapy provides a negative reinforcement
when the stimulus is produced."
4. "This form of therapy provides a negative reinforcement when the stimulus is
produced."
70.
The nurse is caring for a client who is at risk for
suicide. What is the priority nursing action for this client?
1. Provide authority, action, and participation.
2. Display an attitude of detachment, confrontation, and
efficiency.
3. Demonstrate confidence in the client's ability to deal
with stressors.
4. Provide hope and reassurance that the problems will
resolve themselves.
1. Provide authority, action, and participation.
71.
A client comes to the emergency department after an
assault and is extremely agitated, trembling, and
hyperventilating. What is the priority nursing action for
this client?
1. Begin to teach relaxation techniques.
2. Encourage the client to discuss the assault.
3. Remain with the client until the anxiety decreases.
4. Place the client in a quiet room alone to decrease
stimulation.
72.
The nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who
was experiencing anxiety after the loss of a job. The client
is now verbalizing concerns regarding the ability to meet
role expectations and financial obligations. What is
the priority problem for this client?
1. Anxiety
2. Unrealistic outlook
3. Lack of ability to cope effectively
4. Disturbances in thoughts and ideas
3. Lack of ability to cope effectively
73.
The nurse has developed a plan of care for a client
diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Which client problem
would the nurse select as the priority in the plan of care?
1. Disrupted appearance because of weight
2. Inability to feed self because of weakness
3. Pain because of an inflamed gastric mucosa
4. Nutritional imbalance because of lack of intake
4. Nutritional imbalance because of lack of intake
74.
Which statement made by an unlicensed assistive
personnel (UAP) indicates to the registered nurse that the
UAP understands the concepts related to suicide?
1. "Discussing suicide with a client is not harmful."
2. "Those clients who talk about suicide never do it."
3. "Depressed clients are the only persons who commit
suicide."
4. "When a person talks about making suicide threats, the
75.
Which client is most at risk for committing suicide?
1. A 75-year-old client with metastatic cancer
2. A 71-year-old client with a cardiac disorder
3. A 24-year-old client who just had an argument with her
roommate
4. A 30-year-old newly divorced client who states she has
custody of the children
1. A 75-year-old client with metastatic cancer
76.
A nursing instructor teaches a group of nursing
students about violence in the family. Which statement by a
student indicates a need for further teaching?
1. "Abusers use fear and intimidation."
2. "Abusers usually have poor self-esteem."
3. "Abusers often are jealous or self-centered."
4. "Abuse occurs more often in low-income families."
4. "Abuse occurs more often in low-income families."
77.
A client is being prepared for electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT). The nurse's plan of care for the day before
ECT includes ensuring that the client follows which
guideline?
1. Does not smoke at all
2. Receives no visitors and participates in limited unit
activities
3. Reports to the clinic for blood draws and an
electrocardiogram (ECG)
78.
A nursing student is assisting with the care of a client
with a chronic mental illness. The nurse informs the student
that a behavior modification approach (operant
conditioning) will be used in treatment for the client.
Which statement by the student indicates a need for
further information about the therapy?
1. "It uses positive reinforcement."
2. "It uses negative reinforcement."
3. "It increases social behaviors in the client."
4. "It increases the level of self-care in the client."
2. "It uses negative reinforcement."
79.
The nurse is performing an admission assessment on a
client at high risk for suicide. The nurse should prepare to
ask the client which assessment question to elicit data
related to this risk?
1. "What are you feeling right now?"
2. "Do you have a plan to commit suicide?"
3. "How many times have you attempted suicide in the
past?"
4. "Why were your attempts at suicide unsuccessful in the
past?"
2. "Do you have a plan to commit suicide?"
80.
The nurse in the mental health unit is performing an
assessment in a client who has a history of multiple somatic
complaints involving several organ systems. Diagnostic
81.
A mental health nurse in a psychiatric unit is meeting
with a client who has a long history of acting out and
violent behavior. The client also is known to have abused
drugs on numerous occasions. During the session the client
says to the nurse, "I'm feeling much better now, and I'm
ready to go straight." Which response by the nurse would
be therapeutic?
1. "You have said this many times before!"
2. "Tell me what makes you feel that you are ready."
3. "I have not seen any changes in you to believe that you
are ready to go straight."
4. "I'm so glad to hear you talking this way. I will let your
health care provider know."
2. "Tell me what makes you feel that you are ready."
82.
A client with a diagnosis of depression has been
meeting with the mental health nurse for therapy sessions
for the past 6 weeks. During the session the client says to
the nurse, "I lost my job this week, and I'm going to be
evicted from my apartment if I can't pay my bill. The only
person that I have is my daughter, but I don't want to
burden her with my problems." Which response by the
83.
During a therapy session with a client with paranoid
disorder, the client says to the nurse, "You look so nice
today. I love how you do your hair, and I love that perfume
you're wearing." Which response by the nurse would be
therapeutic?
1. "Your comment is inappropriate."
2. "Thank you for noticing. I just bought this new
perfume."
3. "My hair has been a mess. I really needed to have it
done."
4. "We are not here to discuss how I look or smell. We are
here to talk about you."
4. "We are not here to discuss how I look or smell. We are here to talk about you."
84.
The nurse in the mental health unit is assigned to care
for a female client with a diagnosis of acute depression. In
communicating with the client, which statement would be
appropriate for the nurse to make?
85.
The nurse is planning care for a client with bipolar
disorder who is experiencing psychomotor agitation. Which
activity should the nurse plan for this client?
1. Reading letters and books in a quiet environment
2. Providing an activity such as checkers for the client
3. Involving the client in a card game with other clients on
the unit
4. Including the client in a clay-molding class that is
scheduled for today
4. Including the client in a clay-molding class that is scheduled for today
86.
The nurse is developing a plan of care for a client with
depression whose food intake is poor. The nurse should
include which interventions in the plan of care? Select all
that apply.
1. Assist the client in selecting foods from the food menu.
2. Offer high-calorie fluids throughout the day and evening.
3. Allow the client to eat alone in the room if the client
requests to do so.
4. Offer small high-calorie, high-protein snacks during the
day and evening.
5. Select the foods for the client to be sure that the client
eats a balanced diet.
87.
The nurse is monitoring a client with a diagnosis of
schizophrenia. The nurse notes that the client's emotional
responses to situations occurring throughout the day are
incongruent with the tone of the situation. The nurse should
document the findings using which description of the
client's behavioral response?
1. Flat affect
2. Bizarre affect
3. Blunted affect
4. Inappropriate affect
4. Inappropriate affect
88.
A mental health nurse notes that a client with
schizophrenia is exhibiting an immobile facial expression
and a blank look. Which should the nurse document in the
client's record?
1. The client has a flat affect.
2. The client has an inappropriate affect.
3. The client is exhibiting bizarre behavior.
4. The client's emotional responses exhibit a blunted affect.
1. The client has a flat affect.
89.
The nurse is developing a plan of care for the client
with a diagnosis of paranoia and should include which
interventions in the plan of care? Select all that apply.
1. Provide a warm approach to the client.
2. Ask permission before touching the client.
90.
The nurse is preparing a client for electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT), which is scheduled for the next morning.
Which interventions would be included in the
preprocedural plan? Select all that apply.
1. Obtain an informed consent.
2. Have the client void before the procedure.
3. Remove dentures and contact lenses before the
procedure.
4. Withhold food and fluids for 6 hours before the
treatment.
5. Administer tap water enemas on the evening before the
procedure.
o 1. Obtain an informed consent.
o 2. Have the client void before the procedure.
o 3. Remove dentures and contact lenses before the procedure.
o 4. Withhold food and fluids for 6 hours before the treatment.
91.
A hospitalized client is receiving clozapine (Clozaril)
for the treatment of a schizophrenic disorder. The nurse
determines that the client may be having an adverse
reaction to the medication if abnormalities are noted on
which laboratory study?
1. Platelet count
2. Cholesterol level
3. Blood urea nitrogen
4. White blood cell (WBC) count
4. White blood cell (WBC) count
92.
A client has been prescribed disulfiram (Antabuse).
Before giving the client the first dose of this medication,
what should the psychiatric home health nurse determine?
1. If there is a history of hyperthyroidism
2. When the last full meal was consumed
3. If there is a history of diabetes insipidus
4. When the last alcoholic drink was consumed
4. When the last alcoholic drink was consumed
93.
A home care nurse making an initial home visit notes
that a client is taking donepezil hydrochloride (Aricept).
The nurse questions the client's spouse about a history of
which disorder that is treated with this medication?
1. Dementia
2. Schizophrenia
3. Seizure disorder
4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
1. Dementia
94.
The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of
agoraphobia. When communicating with the client about
the disorder, the nurse should expect the client to describe
which behavior?
1. A fear of dirt and germs
2. A fear of leaving the house
3. A fear of speaking in public
4. A fear of riding in elevators
2. A fear of leaving the house
95.
A client recently admitted to the hospital in the manic
phase of bipolar disorder is dehydrated, unkempt, taking
antipsychotic medications, and complaining of abdominal
fullness and discomfort. The nurse determines that which
intervention is most appropriate for these complaints?
1. Teach self-grooming skills.
2. Reward cleanliness with unit privileges.
3. Monitor the adequacy of the antipsychotic dosage.
4. Encourage frequent fluid intake and a high-fiber diet.
4. Encourage frequent fluid intake and a high-fiber diet.
96.
A homebound client confidentially discusses suicidal
plans with the visiting nurse. Based on professional duty to
observe confidentiality, which statement bestdescribes the
nurse's obligation to the client?
1. The nurse must have the client go to the local mental
health center daily for counseling.
2. The nurse must ask the client not to reveal suicidal plans
if the information needs to be kept confidential.
3. The nurse cannot tell anyone what the client said and
must strictly adhere to the professional duty for
confidentiality.
4. The nurse must override the duty to observe
confidentiality and notify the client's health care provider
(HCP) about the suicidal ideation.
4. The nurse must override the duty to observe confidentiality and notify the client's
health care provider (HCP) about the suicidal ideation.
97.
The mental health nurse is reviewing the discharge
plan for a hospitalized client. In reviewing the plan, the
nurse recognizes that which is the most prominent problem
in the management of a client with a mental health problem
in the community?
1. The community's opposition
2. The client's noncompliance with medication therapy
3. The associated increased incidence of social problems
4. The family's reaction to keeping the client in the
community
2. The client's noncompliance with medication therapy
98.
During a home visit, the nurse suspects that a young
daughter of the client is bulimic. The nurse bases this
suspicion on which primary characteristic of bulimia?
1. Refusing to eat and excessive exercising
2. Eating only vegetables and fruits and fasting
3. Hoarding of food and difficulty controlling food intake
4. Eating a lot of food in a short period of time and misuse
of laxatives
4. Eating a lot of food in a short period of time and misuse of laxatives
99.
The mental health nurse is talking to a client who has
been diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. During
2. 8
3. 14
4. 16
2. 8
117. A nurse assists a client with a diagnosis of obsessivecompulsive disorder (OCD) in his preparations for bedtime.
One hour later the client calls the nurse and says that he is
feeling anxious; he asks the nurse to sit and talk for a while.
Which is the appropriate initial nursing action?
1. Sit and talk with the client.
2. Ask the unlicensed assistive personnel to sit with the
client.
3. Administer the prescribed as-needed antianxiety
medication.
4. Tell the client that it is time for sleep and that you will
talk with him tomorrow.
1. Sit and talk with the client.
127. The home health nurse visits an older adult client who
has recently lost her husband. The client says, "No one
cares about me anymore. All the people I loved are dead."
Which is the appropriate response?
1. "Right! Why not just pack it in'?"
2. "That seems rather unlikely to me."
3. "I don't believe that, and neither do you."
4. "You must be feeling all alone at this point."
4. "You must be feeling all alone at this point."
suicide.
4. Engage the client in one-to-one supervision, share with
the client the observations that have been assessed, and ask
whether the client is thinking about suicide.
4. Engage the client in one-to-one supervision, share with the client the observations that
have been assessed, and ask whether the client is thinking about suicide.
129. The nurse is performing an assessment on a 16-yearold female client who has been diagnosed with anorexia
nervosa. Which statement, if made by the client, would the
nurse identify as necessitating further assessment on
a priority basis?
1. "I check my weight every day without fail."
2. "I've been told that I am 10% below ideal body weight."
3. "I exercise 3 to 4 hours every day to keep my slim
figure."
4. "My best friend was in the hospital with this disease a
year ago."
3. "I exercise 3 to 4 hours every day to keep my slim figure."
132. The nurse is planning care for a client who has been
hospitalized for violent behavior and is at risk for harming
others. Which intervention could potentially present a
danger to the client, health care providers, and others on the
nursing unit?
1. Facing the client when providing care
2. Assigning the client to a room at the end of the hall
3. Ensuring that a security officer is within the immediate
area
3. "You will be safe here. Your thinking will be clearer after your medication starts to
work."
3. "Can you tell me more about that? You see yourself as being codependent with your
wife?"
share with me some ways that you feel you can cope with
this abuse?"
4. "So you realize that there are many ways to erode someone's self-confidence and
independence? Can you share with me some ways that you feel you can cope with this
abuse?"
assistance centers.
4. Distribute fliers identifying the availability of
psychological counseling.
3. Station mental health professionals at established assistance centers.
197. A depressed client verbalizes feelings of low selfesteem and self-worth typified by statements such as, "I'm
such a failure. I can't do anything right." Which is the best
nursing response?
1. Tell the client that this is not true, that we all have a
purpose in life.
2. Identify recent behaviors or accomplishments that
demonstrate the client's skills.
3. Reassure the client that you know how the client is
feeling and that things will get better.
4. Remain with the client and sit in silence. This will
encourage the client to verbalize feelings.
2. Identify recent behaviors or accomplishments that demonstrate the client's skills.
199. The nurse should identify which best goal for a client
experiencing hallucinations?
1. Support the client through the hallucination in a caring,
therapeutic manner.
2. Provide the client with insight as to why he is
experiencing the hallucination.
3. Facilitate the client's awareness that the hallucination is
not the reality of the world.
4. Help the client understand that he can learn to ignore the
hallucination through appropriate coping mechanisms.
3. Facilitate the client's awareness that the hallucination is not the reality of the world.
2. "How do you feel when you haven't had a drink all day?"
4. Schedule brief nursing interactions with the client during several meals in which small
portions are offered.
4.The client will resolve feelings of fear and anxiety related to the rape trauma.
226. The nursing care plan indicates a problem of selfdirected violence and the risk for suicide,related to suicidal
ideations with a plan. An expected outcome of this plan of
care would be that the client does which?
1. Displays less anxiety and agitation
2. Establishes a relationship with staff and peers
3. Develops adequate coping and problem-solving skills
4. Denies suicidal ideation and identifies options to deal
with stressors
231. An older client says to the home care nurse, "I can't
believe that my wife died yesterday. I keep expecting to see
her everywhere I go in this house, ready to plan our
activities for the day." Which is the therapeutic nursing
response?
2. Social phobia
3. Agoraphobia
4. Claustrophobia
2. Social phobia
kill you."
3. "What makes you think that cult members are being sent
to hurt you?"
4. "I don't know about a religious cult. Are you afraid that
people are trying to hurt you?"
4. "I don't know about a religious cult. Are you afraid that people are trying to hurt you?"
1. Isolating self
2. Inability to cope
3. Low self-esteem
4. Risk for self-harm
4. Risk for self-harm
1. Increases the number of hours slept at one time and is increasingly alert
3. Diazepam (Valium)
4. Haloperidol (Haldol)
3. Diazepam (Valium)
client?
1. "That doesn't sound like the real you talking!"
2. "I'm sure you have someone if you think hard enough."
3. "It sounds as though you are feeling all alone right now."
4. "I don't believe that, and I really don't think you do
either."
3. "It sounds as though you are feeling all alone right now."
286. An acutely depressed client is receiving cognitivebehavioral therapy. The nurse is developing a plan of care
for the client and includes interventions that focus on this
type of therapy. Which interventions should the nurse
include? Select all that apply.
1. Assisting the client to identify and test negative cognition
2. Assisting the client to participate in the treatment process
3. Assisting the client to develop alternative thinking
patterns
4. Assisting the client to rehearse new cognitive and
behavioral responses
5. Assisting the client with the administration of
antidepressant medications
6. Assisting the client's family to participate in group
therapy on a regular basis
o 1. Assisting the client to identify and test negative cognition
o 2. Assisting the client to participate in the treatment process
o 3. Assisting the client to develop alternative thinking patterns
o 4. Assisting the client to rehearse new cognitive and behavioral responses
6. Elimination patterns