ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam With NGN Version 2 With Answers-199 Solved Questions

VERSION 2
ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam
A charge nurse is discussing mental status examinations with a newly licensed nurse. Which of
the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?
(select all that apply.)
A. “To assess cognitive ability, I should ask the client to count backward by sevens.”
Counting backward by 7s is an appropriate technique to assess a client’s cognitive ability.
B. “To assess affect, I should observe the client’s facial expression.”
Observing a client’s facial expression is appropriate when assessing affect.
C. “To assess language ability, I should instruct the client to write a sentence.” Writing a sentence
is an indication of language ability.
Answer: A. “To assess cognitive ability, I should ask the client to count backward by sevens.”
Counting backward by 7s is an appropriate technique to assess a client’s cognitive ability.
A nurse is planning care for a client who has a mental health disorder. Which of the following
actions should the nurse include as a psychobiological intervention?
A. Teaching the client relaxation techniques.
B. Encouraging the client to engage in regular physical activity.
C. Educating the client about the relationship between nutrition and mental health.
D. Monitor the client for adverse effects of medications. Monitoring for adverse effects of
medications is an example of a psychobiological intervention.
Answer: D. Monitor the client for adverse effects of medications. Monitoring for adverse effects
of medications is an example of a psychobiological intervention.
A nurse in an outpatient mental health clinic is preparing to conduct an initial client interview.
When conducting the interview, which of the following actions should the nurse identify as the
priority?
A. Reviewing the client's medical history.
B. Identifying the client’s perception of her mental health status.
C. Conducting a physical assessment.

D. Establishing rapport with the client.
Answer: B. Identifying the client’s perception of her mental health status.
A nurse is told during change‐of‐shift report that a client is stuporous. When assessing the client,
which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
A. The client arouses briefly in response to a sternal rub.
B. The client is oriented to person, place, and time.
C. The client responds appropriately to verbal stimuli.
D. The client is alert and oriented with clear speech.
Answer: A. The client arouses briefly in response to a sternal rub.
A nurse is planning a peer group discussion about the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DsM‐5). Which of the following information is appropriate to
include in the discussion? (select all that apply.)
A. The DSM-5 provides treatment guidelines for mental health disorders.
B. The DSM-5 establishes diagnostic criteria for individual mental health disorders.
C. The DSM-5 is primarily used by psychologists and psychiatrists.
D. The DSM-5 assists nurses in planning care for clients who have mental health disorders.
E. The DSM-5 indicates expected assessment findings of mental health disorders.
Answer: B. The DSM-5 establishes diagnostic criteria for individual mental health disorders.
D. The DSM-5 assists nurses in planning care for clients who have mental health disorders.
Chapter 2
A nurse in an emergency mental health facility is caring for a group of clients. the nurse should
identify that which of the following clients requires a temporary emergency admission?
A. A client experiencing mild anxiety due to work stress.
B. A client with a history of depression who is expressing suicidal ideation but has a strong
support system.
C. A client who has borderline personality disorder and assaulted a homeless man with a metal
rod.

D. A client with a history of schizophrenia who is currently stable on medication.
Answer: C. A client who has borderline personality disorder and assaulted a homeless man with
a metal rod.
A nurse decides to put a client who has a psychotic disorder in seclusion overnight because the
unit is very short‐staffed, and the client frequently fights with other clients. The nurse’s actions
are an example of which of the following torts?
A. Assault
B. False imprisonment
C. Battery
D. Negligence
Answer: B. False imprisonment
A client tells a nurse, “don’t tell anyone, but i hid a sharp knife under my mattress in order to
protect myself from my roommate, who is always yelling at me and threatening me.” Which of
the following actions should the nurse take?
A. Ignore the client's statement and continue with routine care.
B. Remove the knife without informing the healthcare team.
C. Tell the client that this must be reported to the healthcare team because it concerns the health
and safety of the client and others.
D. Confront the roommate about the client's allegations.
Answer: C. Tell the client that this must be reported to the healthcare team because it concerns
the health and safety of the client and others.
A nurse is caring for a client who is in mechanical restraints. Which of the following statements
should the nurse include in the documentation? (select all that apply.)
A. "Client appeared agitated and restless."
B. “Client was offered 8 oz of water every hr.”
C. “Client shouted obscenities at assistive personnel.”
D. “Client received chlorpromazine 15 mg by mouth at 1000.”
Answer: B. “Client was offered 8 oz of water every hr.”

C. “Client shouted obscenities at assistive personnel.”
D. “Client received chlorpromazine 15 mg by mouth at 1000.”
A nurse hears a newly licensed nurse discussing a client’s hallucinations in the hallway with
another nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
A. Report the incident to the nursing supervisor.
B. Tell the nurse to stop discussing the behavior.
C. Ask the nurse if the information being shared is accurate.
D. Engage in a conversation with the newly licensed nurse to educate about confidentiality.
Answer: B. Tell the nurse to stop discussing the behavior.
Chapter 3
A charge nurse is conducting a class on therapeutic communication to a group of newly licensed
nurses. Which of the following aspects of communication should the nurse identify as a
component of verbal communication?
A. Body language
B. Eye contact
C. Facial expressions
D. Intonation
Answer: D. Intonation
A nurse in an acute mental health facility is communicating with a client. the client states, “I
can’t sleep. I stay up all night.” the nurse responds,
“You are having difficulty sleeping?” Which of the following therapeutic communication
techniques is the nurse demonstrating?
A. Reflecting
B. Clarifying
C. Offering self
D. Restating
Answer: D. Restating

A nurse is communicating with a client who was just admitted for treatment of a substance use
disorder. Which of the following communication techniques should the nurse identify as a barrier
to therapeutic communication?
A. Offering advice.
B. Reflecting feelings.
C. Clarifying.
D. Summarizing.
Answer: A. Offering advice.
A nurse caring for a client who has anorexia nervosa. Which of the following examples
demonstrates the nurse’s use of interpersonal communication?
A. The nurse explains the treatment plan to the client.
B. The nurse educates the client about the health risks of anorexia nervosa.
C. The nurse asks the client about her body image perception.
D. The nurse administers medication to the client.
Answer: C. The nurse asks the client about her body image perception.
A nurse is caring for the parents of a child who has demonstrated recent changes in behavior and
mood. When the mother of the child asks the nurse for reassurance about her son’s condition,
which of the following responses should the nurse make?
A. "Your son will be fine. There's nothing to worry about."
B. "I'm sure everything will turn out okay."
C. "You shouldn't worry too much. Children go through phases."
D. “I understand you’re concerned. Let’s discuss what concerns you specifically.”
Answer: D. “I understand you’re concerned. Let’s discuss what concerns you specifically.”
Chapter 4

A nurse is caring for a client who smokes and has lung cancer. the client reports, “I’m coughing
because I have that cold that everyone has been getting.” The nurse should identify that the client
is using which of the following defense mechanisms?
A. Projection.
B. Denial.
C. Rationalization.
D. Regression.
Answer: B. Denial.
A nurse is providing preoperative teaching for a client who was just informed that she requires
emergency surgery. the client, has a respiratory rate 30/min, and says, “this is difficult to
comprehend. I feel shaky and nervous.” the nurse should identify that the client is experiencing
which of the following levels of anxiety?
A. Mild anxiety.
B. Moderate anxiety.
C. Severe anxiety.
D. Panic-level anxiety.
Answer: B. Moderate anxiety.
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing moderate anxiety. Which of the following
actions should the nurse take when trying to give necessary information to the client? (Select all
that apply.)
A. Encourage the client to try relaxation techniques.
B. Discuss prior use of coping mechanisms with the client.
C. Provide detailed explanations and information.
D. Demonstrate a calm manner while using simple and clear directions.
Answer: B. Discuss prior use of coping mechanisms with the client.
D. Demonstrate a calm manner while using simple and clear directions.
Chapter 5

A nurse is talking with a client who is at risk for suicide following the death of his spouse. Which
of the following statements should the nurse make?
A. "You should try to stay strong for your family."
B. "It's been a month already, you should start feeling better soon."
C. “Losing someone close to you must be very upsetting.”
D. "Why don't you focus on the good memories you shared?"
Answer: C. “Losing someone close to you must be very upsetting.”
A charge nurse is discussing the characteristics of a nurse-client relationship with a newly
licensed nurse. Which of the following characteristics should the nurse include in the discussion?
(Select all that apply.)
A. It is casual and informal.
B. It focuses primarily on the nurse's needs.
C. It lacks boundaries.
D. It is goal-directed.
E. Behavioral change is encouraged.
F. A termination date is established.
Answer: D. It is goal-directed.
E. Behavioral change is encouraged.
F. A termination date is established.
A nurse is in the working phase of a therapeutic relationship with a client who has
methamphetamine use disorder. Which of the following actions indicates transference behavior?
A. The client asks the nurse to go out on a date.
B. The client accuses the nurse of telling him what to do just like his ex-girlfriend.
C. The client reminds the nurse of a friend who died from a substance use disorder.
D. The client becomes angry and threatens to harm himself.
Answer: B. The client accuses the nurse of telling him what to do just like his ex-girlfriend.
A nurse is planning care for the termination phase of a nurse-client relationship. Which of the
following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

A. Discussing ways to incorporate new behaviors into life.
B. Exploring the client's past experiences.
C. Establishing goals for the therapeutic relationship.
D. Developing a contract regarding the frequency of meetings.
Answer: A. Discussing ways to incorporate new behaviors into life.
A nurse is orienting a new client to a mental health unit. When explaining the unit’s community
meetings, which of the following statements should the nurse make?
A. "Community meetings provide a time for socializing with staff and other clients."
B. "You can use community meetings to address your individual therapy needs."
C. “You and the other clients will meet with staff to discuss common problems.”
D. "Community meetings are optional and you can attend if you feel like it."
Answer: C. “You and the other clients will meet with staff to discuss common problems.”
Chapter 6
A nurse is caring for several clients who are attending community‐based mental health programs.
Which of the following clients should the nurse plan to visit first?
A. A client who reports a headache from working in the sun too long yesterday.
B. A client who states that he needs help completing a job application.
C. A client who says he is hearing a voice that tells him he is not worthy of living anymore.
D. A client who tells the nurse that he experienced mild nausea after eating lunch today.
Answer: C. A client who says he is hearing a voice that tells him he is not worthy of living
anymore.
A community mental health nurse is planning care to address the issue of depression among older
adult clients in the community. Which of the following interventions should the nurse plan as a
method of tertiary prevention?
A. Educating clients on health promotion techniques to reduce the risk of depression.
B. Screening older adult clients for depression at community centers.
C. Establishing rehabilitation programs to decrease the effects of depression.

D. Providing support groups for clients at risk for depression.
Answer: C. Establishing rehabilitation programs to decrease the effects of depression.
A nurse is working in a community mental health facility. Which of the following services does
this type of program provide? (select all that apply.)
A. Educational groups
B. Medication dispensing programs
C. Individual counseling programs
D. Detoxification services
E. Family therapy
Answer: A. Educational groups
B. Medication dispensing programs
C. Individual counseling programs
E. Family therapy
A nurse in an acute mental health facility is assisting with discharge planning for a client who has
a severe mental illness and requires supervision much of the time. the client’s wife works all day
but is home by late afternoon. Which of the following strategies should the nurse suggest as
appropriate follow‐up care?
A. Receiving daily home health visits.
B. Having a weekly visit from a nurse case worker.
C. Attending a partial hospitalization program.
D. Visiting a community mental health center on a daily basis.
Answer: C. Attending a partial hospitalization program.
A nurse is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following clients should a nurse consider
for referral to an assertive community treatment (act) group?
A. A client in an acute care mental health facility who has a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
B. A client who lives at home and keeps “forgetting” to come in for his monthly antipsychotic
injection for schizophrenia.

C. A client in a rehabilitation facility who has a traumatic brain injury and is receiving physical
therapy.
D. A client who has depression and reports feeling better after taking a new antidepressant for 2
weeks.
Answer: B. A client who lives at home and keeps “forgetting” to come in for his monthly
antipsychotic injection for schizophrenia.
Chapter 7
A nurse is teaching a client who has an anxiety disorder and is scheduled to begin classical
psychoanalysis. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of this form
of therapy?
A. "The therapist will help me change my behavior."
B. “The therapist will focus on my past relationships during our sessions.”
C. "The therapist will teach me techniques to manage my anxiety."
D. "The therapist will prescribe medication to help with my anxiety."
Answer: B. “The therapist will focus on my past relationships during our sessions.”
A nurse is discussing free association as a therapeutic tool with a client who has major depressive
disorder. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of this technique?
A. “I should focus on my current problems.”
B. “I will try to avoid talking about difficult topics.”
C. “I will wait for the therapist to ask me questions.”
D. “I should say the first thing that comes to my mind.”
Answer: D. “I should say the first thing that comes to my mind.”
A nurse is preparing to implement cognitive reframing techniques for a client who has an anxiety
disorder. Which of the following techniques should the nurse include in the plan of care? (select
all that apply.)
A. Priority restructuring
B. Monitoring thoughts

C. Deep breathing exercises
D. Journal keeping
Answer: B. Monitoring thoughts
D. Journal keeping
A nurse is caring for a client who has a new prescription for disulfiram for treatment of alcohol
use disorder. The nurse informs the client that this medication can cause nausea and vomiting if
he drinks alcohol. Which of the following types of treatment is this method an example?
A. Aversion therapy pairs a maladaptive behavior with unpleasant stimuli to promote a change in
behavior.
B. Systematic desensitization gradually exposes the client to anxiety-provoking stimuli while
practicing relaxation techniques.
C. A client is undergoing cognitive-behavioral therapy to address negative thought patterns
associated with depression. Which of the following actions should the nurse expect to
implement?
D. A nurse is providing family therapy to a family who has a member with schizophrenia. Which
of the following actions should the nurse take during this therapy session?
Answer: A. Aversion therapy pairs a maladaptive behavior with unpleasant stimuli to promote a
change in behavior.
Chapter 8 – Group and Family Therapy
A nurse wants to use democratic leadership with a group whose purpose is to learn appropriate
conflict resolution techniques. The nurse is correct in implementing this form of group leadership
when she demonstrates which of the following actions?
A. Assigning tasks to group members without consulting them.
B. Making all decisions independently without input from the group.
C. Asking for group suggestions of techniques and then supporting discussion.
D. Directing group members on what conflict resolution techniques to use.
Answer: C. Asking for group suggestions of techniques and then supporting discussion.

A nurse is planning group therapy for clients dealing with bereavement. Which of the following
activities should the nurse include in the initial phase? (Select all that apply.)
A. Assigning roles for each group member.
B. Define the purpose of the group.
C. Discuss termination of the group.
D. Share personal experiences of bereavement.
E. Establish an expectation of confidentiality within the group.
Answer: B. Define the purpose of the group.
E. Establish an expectation of confidentiality within the group.
A nurse working on an acute mental health unit forms a group to focus on self management of
medications. at each of the meetings, two of the members use the opportunity to discuss their
common interest in gambling on sports. This is an example of which of the following concepts?
A. Social loafing.
B. Groupthink.
C. Scapegoating.
D. Hidden agenda.
Answer: D. Hidden agenda.
A nurse is conducting a family therapy session. The adolescent son tells the nurse that he plans
ways to make his sister look bad so his parents will think he’s the better sibling, which he
believes will give him more privileges. The nurse should identify this dysfunctional behavior as
which of the following?
A. Projection.
B. Manipulation.
C. Displacement.
D. Rationalization.
Answer: B. Manipulation.
A nurse is working with an established group and identifies various member roles. Which of the
following should the nurse identify as an individual role?

A. A member who encourages others and offers support.
B. A member who facilitates communication and keeps the group focused.
C. A member who brags about accomplishments.
D. A member who listens actively and provides feedback to others.
Answer: C. A member who brags about accomplishments.
Chapter 9 – Stress Management
A nurse is preparing to provide an educational seminar on stress to other nursing staff. Which of
the following information should the nurse include in the discussion?
A. Excessive stressors cause the client to experience distress.
B. Stress is always harmful to health.
C. Stress is solely caused by external factors.
D. All individuals respond to stressors in the same way.
Answer: A. Excessive stressors cause the client to experience distress.
A nurse is discussing acute vs. prolonged stress with a client. Which of the following effects
should the nurse identify as an acute stress response? (Select all that apply.)
A. Weight gain
B. Depressed immune system
C. Increased blood pressure
D. Improved cognitive function
E. Unhappiness
Answer: B. Depressed immune system
C. Increased blood pressure
A nurse is teaching a client about stress‐reduction techniques. Which of the following client
statements indicates understanding of the teaching?
A. “Cognitive reframing will help me change my irrational thoughts to something positive.”
B. “I will avoid all stressful situations to reduce my stress.”
C. “I will rely on alcohol to help me relax when I’m stressed.”

D. “I will isolate myself from others when I feel stressed.”
Answer: A. “Cognitive reframing will help me change my irrational thoughts to something
positive.”
A client says she is experiencing increased stress because her significant other is
“pressuring me and my kids to go live with him. I love him, but I’m not ready to do that.” Which
of the following recommendations should the nurse make to promote a change in the client’s
situation?
A. Avoidance techniques.
B. Use assertiveness techniques.
C. Passive-aggressive behavior.
D. Seek revenge against the significant other.
Answer: B. Use assertiveness techniques.
A nurse is caring for a client who states, “I’m so stressed at work because of my coworker. He
expects me to finish his work because he’s too lazy!” When discussing effective communication,
which of the following statements by the client to his coworker indicates client understanding?
A. "I can't believe you're always dumping your work on me. You need to start pulling your
weight!"
B. "I'll do your work this time, but you owe me big time!"
C. "I'm tired of covering for you. You need to start doing your job properly."
D. “When I have to pick up extra work, I feel very overwhelmed. I need to focus on my own
responsibilities.”
Answer: D. “When I have to pick up extra work, I feel very overwhelmed. I need to focus on my
own responsibilities.”
Chapter 10 – Brain stimulation Therapies
A nurse is providing teaching for a client who is scheduled to receive ECT for the treatment of
major depressive disorder. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of
the teaching?

A. “ECT will cure my depression completely.”
B. “I will not feel any discomfort during the ECT procedure.”
C. “I will be awake and alert during the ECT treatment.”
D. “I will receive a muscle relaxant to protect me from injury during ECT.”
Answer: D. “I will receive a muscle relaxant to protect me from injury during ECT.”
A charge nurse is discussing TMS with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A. "I will schedule the client for TMS treatments every other day for the first few weeks."
B. "I will schedule the client for TMS treatments once a week for the first month."
C. "I will schedule the client for TMS treatments as needed based on their symptoms."
D. “I will schedule the client for daily TMS treatments for the first several weeks.”
Answer: D. “I will schedule the client for daily TMS treatments for the first several weeks.”
A nurse is assessing a client immediately following an ECT procedure. Which of the following
findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
A. Increased appetite
B. Decreased heart rate
C. Memory loss
D. Nausea
E. Confusion
Answer: C. Memory loss
D. Nausea
E. Confusion
A nurse is leading a peer group discussion about the indications for ECT. Which of the following
indications should the nurse include in the discussion?
A. Social anxiety disorder
B. Specific phobia
C. Bipolar disorder with rapid cycling
D. Seasonal affective disorder

Answer: C. Bipolar disorder with rapid cycling
A nurse is planning care for a client following surgical implantation of a VNS device. the nurse
should plan to monitor for which of the following adverse effects? (Select all that apply.)
A. Voice changes
B. Increased appetite
C. Visual disturbances
D. Dysphagia
E. Neck pain
Answer: A. Voice changes
D. Dysphagia
E. Neck pain
Week 2
Chapter 15-18, 24, 26
Chapter 15 – Psychotic Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who has substance‐induced psychotic disorder and is experiencing
auditory hallucinations. the client states, “the voices won’t leave me alone!” Which of the
following statements should the nurse make? (select all that apply.)
A. “When did you start hearing the voices?”
B. “You need to ignore the voices; they aren't real.”
C. “It must be scary to hear voices.”
D. “Are the voices telling you to hurt yourself?”
Answer: A. “When did you start hearing the voices?”
C. “It must be scary to hear voices.”
D. “Are the voices telling you to hurt yourself?”
A nurse is completing an admission assessment for a client who has schizophrenia. Which of the
following findings should the nurse document as positive symptoms? (select all that apply.)
A. Auditory hallucination

B. Decreased energy level
C. Use of clang associations
D. Delusion of persecution
E. Constantly waving arms
Answer: A. Auditory hallucination
C. Use of clang associations
D. Delusion of persecution
A nurse is caring for a client who has schizoaffective disorder. Which of the following statements
indicates the client is experiencing depersonalization?
A. “I feel like I'm disconnected from reality.”
B. “I am no one, and everyone is me.”
C. “I hear voices telling me I'm worthless.”
D. “I see shadows moving around the room.”
Answer: B. “I am no one, and everyone is me.”
A nurse is caring for a client on an acute mental health unit. the client reports hearing voices that
are telling her to “kill your doctor.” Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
A. Administer a PRN antipsychotic medication.
B. Initiate one-to-one observation of the client.
C. Call for a psychiatric consultation.
D. Document the client's statement
Answer: B. Initiate one-to-one observation of the client.
A nurse is speaking with a client who has schizophrenia when he suddenly seems to stop
focusing on the nurse’s questions and begins looking at the ceiling and talking to himself. Which
of the following actions should the nurse take?
A. Continue asking the client questions to redirect his focus.
B. Ask the client, “Are you seeing something on the ceiling?”
C. Leave the client alone to see if he will stop talking to himself.
D. Call for assistance from other healthcare team members.

Answer: B. Ask the client, “Are you seeing something on the ceiling?”
Chapter 16 – Personality Disorders
A nurse manager is discussing the care of a client who has a personality disorder with a newly
licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an
understanding of the teaching?
A. "I should avoid setting limits for clients with personality disorders."
B. "I should give in to the client's demands to avoid conflicts."
C. "I should practice limit-setting to help prevent client manipulation."
D. "I should ignore any inappropriate behaviors from clients with personality disorders."
Answer: C. "I should practice limit-setting to help prevent client manipulation."
A nurse is caring for a client who has avoidant personality disorder. Which of the following
statements is expected from a client who has this type of personality disorder?
A. “I’m scared that you’re going to leave me.”
B. “I am the best person for this job.”
C. “I don’t care about anyone else’s feelings.”
D. “I love being the center of attention.”
Answer: A. “I’m scared that you’re going to leave me.”
A nurse is caring for a client who has borderline personality disorder. the client says, “The nurse
on the evening shift is always nice! You are the meanest nurse ever!” the nurse should recognize
the client’s statement as an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?
A. Repression
B. Splitting
C. Projection
D. Rationalization
Answer: B. Splitting

A nurse is assisting with a court‐ordered evaluation of a client who has antisocial personality
disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (select all that apply.)
A. Expresses guilt and remorse for past actions.
B. Demonstrates empathy towards others.
C. Attempts to convince other clients to give him their belongings.
D. Cooperates fully with staff and follows rules consistently.
E. Blames others for his past and current problems.
Answer: C. Attempts to convince other clients to give him their belongings.
E. Blames others for his past and current problems.
A charge nurse is preparing a staff education session on personality disorders. Which of the
following personality characteristics associated with all of the personality disorders should the
charge nurse include in the teaching? (select all that apply.)
A. Difficulty in getting along with other members of a group
B. Consistently demonstrating a lack of empathy towards others
C. Display of defense mechanisms when routines are changed
D. Easily forming and maintaining healthy relationships with others
E. Difficulty understanding why it is inappropriate to have a personal relationship with staff
Answer: A. Difficulty in getting along with other members of a group
C. Display of defense mechanisms when routines are changed
E. Difficulty understanding why it is inappropriate to have a personal relationship with staff
Chapter 17 – Neurocognitive Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who has early stage Alzheimer’s disease and a new prescription for
donepezil. the nurse should include which of the following statements when teaching the client
about the medication?
A. “Donepezil will cure your Alzheimer’s disease completely.”
B. “You can expect the progression of cognitive decline to slow with donepezil.”
C. “You will notice significant improvement in your memory within a few days of taking
donepezil.”

D. “Donepezil will prevent any further memory loss from occurring.”
Answer: B. “You can expect the progression of cognitive decline to slow with donepezil.”
A nurse in a long‐term care facility is caring for a client who has major neurocognitive disorder
and attempts to wander out of the building. the client states, “I have to get home.” Which of the
following statements should the nurse make?
A. “You can't leave the facility. You have to stay here.”
B. “You're confused. Your home is not here.”
C. “I'm sorry, but you can't go home right now.”
D. “I am your nurse. Let’s walk together to your room.”
Answer: D. “I am your nurse. Let’s walk together to your room.”
A home health nurse is making a visit to a client who has Alzheimer’s disease to assess the home
for safety. Which of the following suggestions should the nurse make to decrease the client’s risk
for injury?
A. Install childproof door locks.
B. Keep the client's mattress on a raised bed frame.
C. Remove all rugs and carpets from the floors.
D. Place the client’s mattress on the floor.
E. Install light fixtures above stairs.
Answer: E. Install light fixtures above stairs.
A nurse is making a home visit to a client who is in the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease. The
client’s partner, who is the primary caregiver, wishes to discuss concerns about the client’s
nutrition and the stress of providing care. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A. Recommend placing the client in a long-term care facility.
B. Advise the partner to continue managing the care alone.
C. Provide information on resources for respite care.
D. Suggest increasing the client's dietary supplements.
Answer: C. Provide information on resources for respite care.

A nurse is performing an admission assessment for a client who has delirium related to an acute
urinary tract infection. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (select all that
apply.)
A. Stable vital signs.
B. Family report of personality changes.
C. Hallucinations.
D. Restlessness.
E. Clear and coherent speech.
Answer: B. Family report of personality changes.
C. Hallucinations.
D. Restlessness.
Chapter 18 – Substance Use and Addictive Disorders
A nurse is planning a staff education program on substance use in older adults. Which of the
following is appropriate for the nurse to include in the presentation?
A. Substance use disorders are less common among older adults compared to younger age
groups.
B. Older adults are less likely to develop dependence on substances due to physiological changes
associated with aging.
C. Older adults are at an increased risk for substance use following retirement.
D. Substance use among older adults is primarily limited to alcohol and tobacco.
Answer: C. Older adults are at an increased risk for substance use following retirement.
A nurse is assessing a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal. Which
of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
A. Bradycardia
B. Fine tremors of both hands
C. Increased blood pressure
D. Vomiting
E. Restlessness

Answer: B. Fine tremors of both hands
D. Vomiting
E. Restlessness
A nurse is planning care for a client who is experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal. Which of
the following interventions should the nurse identify as the priority?
A. Administer a benzodiazepine antagonist.
B. Provide a quiet, dimly lit environment.
C. Implement seizure precautions.
D. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
Answer: C. Implement seizure precautions.
A nurse is caring for a client who has alcohol use disorder. the client is no longer experiencing
withdrawal manifestations. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate
administering to assist the client with maintaining abstinence from alcohol?
A. Naltrexone
B. Acamprosate
C. Disulfiram
D. Bupropion
Answer: C. Disulfiram
A nurse is providing teaching to the family of a client who has a substance use disorder. Which
of the following statements by a family member indicate an understanding of the teaching?
(Select all that apply.)
A. "She should only be allowed to return home after completing treatment successfully."
B. "Eliminating any codependent behavior will promote her recovery."
C. "We should provide her with money whenever she asks for it."
D. "The primary goal of her treatment is abstinence from substance use."
E. "She needs to discuss her feelings about substance use to help her recover."
Answer: B. "Eliminating any codependent behavior will promote her recovery."
D. "The primary goal of her treatment is abstinence from substance use."

E. "She needs to discuss her feelings about substance use to help her recover."
Chapter 24 – Medications for Psychotic Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and exhibits a lack of grooming and a flat
affect. the nurse should anticipate a prescription of which of the following medications?
A. Fluoxetine
B. Haloperidol
C. Risperidone
D. Lorazepam
Answer: C. Risperidone
A nurse is caring for a client who takes ziprasidone. the client reports difficulty swallowing the
oral medication and becomes extremely agitated with injectable administration. the nurse should
contact the provider to discuss a change to which of the following medications? (select all that
apply.)
A. Haloperidol
B. Olanzapine
C. Aripiprazole
D. Clozapine
E. Asenapine
Answer: C. Aripiprazole
E. Asenapine
A charge nurse is discussing manifestations of schizophrenia with a newly licensed nurse. Which
of the following manifestations should the charge nurse identify as being effectively treated by
first‐generation antipsychotics? (select all that apply.)
A. Auditory hallucinations
B. Social withdrawal
C. Delusions of grandeur
D. Severe agitation

Answer: A. Auditory hallucinations
C. Delusions of grandeur
D. Severe agitation
A nurse is assessing a client who is currently taking perphenazine. Which of the following
findings should the nurse identify as an extrapyramidal symptom (EPS)? (select all that apply.)
A. Hypertension
B. Drooling
C. Involuntary arm movements
D. Weight gain
E. Continual pacing
Answer: B. Drooling
C. Involuntary arm movements
E. Continual pacing
A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who has schizophrenia and a new
prescription for iloperidone. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of
the teaching?
A. "I will stop taking the medication if I start feeling anxious."
B. "I can drink alcohol occasionally while taking this medication."
C. "I will be careful not to gain too much weight while taking this medication."
D. "I will take the medication only when I feel like my symptoms are worsening."
Answer: C. "I will be careful not to gain too much weight while taking this medication."
Chapter 26 – Medications for substance abuse disorders
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has alcohol use disorder and a new prescription for
carbamazepine. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A. “This medication will help prevent seizures during alcohol withdrawal.”
B. “Taking this medication will decrease your cravings for alcohol.”
C. “This medication maintains your blood pressure at a normal level during alcohol withdrawal.”

D. “Taking this medication will improve your ability to maintain abstinence from alcohol.”
Answer: A. “This medication will help prevent seizures during alcohol withdrawal.”
A nurse is assisting in the discharge planning for a client following alcohol detoxi cation the
nurse should anticipate prescriptions for which of the following medications to promote long‐
term abstinence from alcohol? (select all that apply. c. disulfiram promotes abstinence through
aversion therapy.
A. Lorazepam
B. Fluoxetine
C. Disulfiram
D. Naltrexone
E. Acamprosate
Answer: C. Disulfiram
D. Naltrexone
E. Acamprosate
A nurse is evaluating a client’s understanding of a new prescription for clonidine for the
treatment of opioid use disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an
understanding of the teaching?
A. "I will stop taking the medication if I start feeling anxious."
B. "While taking this medication, I should keep a pack of sugarless gum."
C. "I can drink alcohol occasionally while taking this medication."
D. "I will take the medication only when I feel like my symptoms are worsening."
Answer: B. "While taking this medication, I should keep a pack of sugarless gum."
A nurse is teaching a client who has tobacco use disorder about the use of nicotine gum. Which
of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching
A. Chew the gum continuously for 30 minutes.
B. Chew more than one piece of gum at a time for faster effect.
C. Avoid eating 15 minutes prior to chewing the gum.
D. Chew the gum only when experiencing severe cravings.

Answer: C. Avoid eating 15 minutes prior to chewing the gum.
A nurse is discussing the use of methadone with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching? (select all that
apply.)
A. “Methadone is a replacement for physical dependence to opioids.”
B. “Methadone reduces the unpleasant effects associated with abstinence syndrome.”
C. “Methadone can be used during opioid withdrawal and to maintain abstinence.”
D. “Methadone must be prescribed and dispensed by an approved treatment center.”
Answer: A. “Methadone is a replacement for physical dependence to opioids.”
C. “Methadone can be used during opioid withdrawal and to maintain abstinence.”
D. “Methadone must be prescribed and dispensed by an approved treatment center.”
Week 3
Chapter 13, 14, 22-23, 31
Chapter 12 – Trauma and stressor related disorders
A nurse working on an acute mental health unit is caring for a client who has posttraumatic stress
disorder (PTSD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that
apply.)
A. Difficulty concentrating on tasks
B. Hyperactivity and restlessness
C. Negative self-image
D. Recurring nightmares
E. Auditory hallucinations
Answer: A. Difficulty concentrating on tasks
C. Negative self-image
D. Recurring nightmares

A nurse is involved in a serious and prolonged mass casualty incident in the emergency
department. Which of the following strategies should the nurse use to help prevent developing a
trauma‐related disorder? (Select all that apply)
A. Avoid discussing the incident with colleagues.
B. Take breaks during the incident for food and water.
C. Debrief with others following the incident.
D. Isolate oneself from others to process the incident alone.
E. Take advantage of offered counseling.
Answer: B. Take breaks during the incident for food and water.
C. Debrief with others following the incident.
E. Take advantage of offered counseling.
A nurse is collecting an admission history for a client who has acute stress disorder (ASD).
Which of the following information should the nurse expect to collect?
A. The client has been experiencing symptoms for at least 6 months.
B. The client avoids discussing the traumatic incident.
C. The client experiences severe nightmares about the traumatic incident.
D. The client expresses a sense of unreality about the traumatic incident.
Answer: D. The client expresses a sense of unreality about the traumatic incident.
A nurse is caring for a client who has derealization disorder. Which of the following findings
should the nurse identify as an indication of derealization?
A. The client reports feeling sad and hopeless.
B. The client experiences intrusive memories of a traumatic event.
C. The client states that the furniture in the room seems to be small and far away.
D. The client has difficulty concentrating on tasks and making decisions.
Answer: C. The client states that the furniture in the room seems to be small and far away.
A nurse in an acute mental health facility is planning care for a client who has dissociative fugue.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse add to the plan of care?
A. Administer antipsychotic medication.

B. Encourage the client to engage in reminiscence therapy.
C. Teach the client relaxation techniques.
D. Work with the client on grounding techniques.
Answer: D. Work with the client on grounding techniques.
Chapter 13 – Depressive
A nurse working in an acute mental health facility is caring for a 35‐year‐old female client who
has manifestations of depression. The client lives at home with her partner and two young
children. she currently smokes and has a history of chronic asthma. Which of the following
factors put the client at risk for depression? (select all that apply.)
A. Age
B. Gender
C. History of chronic asthma
D. Smoking
Answer: B. Gender
C. History of chronic asthma
D. Smoking
A nurse working on an acute mental health unit is admitting a client who has major depressive
disorder and comorbid anxiety disorder. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
A. Placing the client on one-to-one observation.
B. Administering an antidepressant medication.
C. Conducting a mental health assessment.
D. Providing emotional support and reassurance.
Answer: A. Placing the client on one-to-one observation.
A nurse working in an outpatient clinic is providing teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis
of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Which of the following statements by the client
indicates understanding of the teaching?
A. "I can expect my symptoms of PMDD to completely disappear after menopause."

B. "I will need to take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage my symptoms."
C. "I am aware that my PMDD causes me to have rapid mood swings."
D. "I should avoid seeking medical treatment for my PMDD."
Answer: C. "I am aware that my PMDD causes me to have rapid mood swings."
A charge nurse is discussing the care of a client who has major depressive disorder (MDD) with
a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates
an understanding of the teaching?
A. "Clients with MDD typically experience manic episodes."
B. "MDD is characterized by periods of intense mood swings."
C. "The client is at greatest risk for suicide during the first weeks of an MDD episode."
D. "MDD is a chronic condition that does not respond to treatment."
Answer: C. "The client is at greatest risk for suicide during the first weeks of an MDD episode."
A nurse is interviewing a 25‐year‐old client who has a new diagnosis of dysthymic disorder.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
A. Sudden onset of severe depressive symptoms
B. Presence of manic episodes
C. Presence of manifestations for at least 2 years
D. Occurrence of hallucinations and delusions
Answer: C. Presence of manifestations for at least 2 years
Chapter 22 - Medications for Depressive Disorders
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for amitriptyline. Which of
the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A. "I should stop taking the medication if I start feeling anxious."
B. “I may feel drowsy for a few weeks after starting this medication.”
C. "I can drink alcohol occasionally while taking this medication."
D. "I should take the medication only when I feel like my symptoms are worsening."
Answer: B. “I may feel drowsy for a few weeks after starting this medication.”

A nurse is caring for a client who is taking phenelzine for which of the following adverse effects
should the nurse monitor? (select all that apply.)
A. Bradycardia
B. Orthostatic hypotension
C. Hyperglycemia
D. Headache
Answer: B. Orthostatic hypotension
D. Headache
A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a new prescription for bupropion for
depression. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
A. The client has a history of depression.
B. The client is allergic to penicillin.
C. The client had a motor vehicle crash last year and sustained a head injury.
D. The client is currently taking a multivitamin supplement.
Answer: C. The client had a motor vehicle crash last year and sustained a head injury.
A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for imipramine how to minimize
anticholinergic effects. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the
teaching? (select all that apply.)
A. Void just before taking the medication.
B. Take the medication with a glass of grapefruit juice.
C. Wear sunglasses when outside.
D. Avoid consuming dairy products.
E. Chew sugarless gum.
Answer: A. Void just before taking the medication.
C. Wear sunglasses when outside.
E. Chew sugarless gum.

A charge nurse is discussing mirtazapine with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?
A. “This medication increases the release of serotonin and norepinephrine.”
B. “This medication blocks the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine.”
C. “This medication inhibits the enzyme monoamine oxidase.”
D. “This medication acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.”
Answer: A. “This medication increases the release of serotonin and norepinephrine.”
Chapter 23 – Medications for Bipolar Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed lithium therapy. the client states that he wants to
take ibuprofen for osteoarthritis pain relief. Which of the following statements should the nurse
make?
A. "You can safely take ibuprofen with lithium therapy."
B. “Regular aspirin would be a better choice than ibuprofen.”
C. "You should avoid taking any pain relievers while on lithium therapy."
D. "Let me check with your healthcare provider before you take any pain relievers."
Answer: B. “Regular aspirin would be a better choice than ibuprofen.”
A nurse is discussing early indications of toxicity with a client who has a new prescription for
lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. the nurse should include which of the following
manifestations in the teaching? (select all that apply.)
A. Bradycardia
B. Polyuria
C. Visual disturbances
D. Muscle weakness
Answer: B. Polyuria
D. Muscle weakness

A nurse is discussing routine follow‐up needs with a client who has a new prescription for
valproate. the nurse should inform the client of the need for routine monitoring of which of the
following?
A. Liver function tests (AST/ALT and LDH)
B. Kidney function tests (BUN and creatinine)
C. Complete blood count (CBC)
D. Serum valproate levels
Answer: A. Liver function tests (AST/ALT and LDH)
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing extreme mania due to bipolar disorder. prior to
administration of lithium carbonate, the client’s lithium blood level is 1.2 meq/l. Which of the
following actions should the nurse take?
A. Administer the next dose of lithium carbonate as scheduled.
B. Hold the next dose of lithium carbonate and notify the healthcare provider.
C. Increase the next dose of lithium carbonate.
D. Recheck the lithium blood level in 4 hours.
Answer: A. Administer the next dose of lithium carbonate as scheduled.
A nurse is admitting a client who has a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder and is scheduled to
begin lithium therapy. When collecting a medical history from the client’s adult daughter, which
of the following statements is the priority to report to the provider?
A. "My mother has a history of seasonal allergies."
B. "My mother occasionally takes ibuprofen for headaches."
C. "My mother had surgery for appendicitis last year."
D. "My mother is currently on furosemide for her congestive heart failure."
Answer: D. "My mother is currently on furosemide for her congestive heart failure."
Chapter 31 – Anger Management
A nurse is conducting group therapy with a group of clients. Which of the following statements
made by a client is an example of aggressive communication?

A. “I feel like nobody understands me.”
B. “Can you help me understand why you feel that way?”
C. “I think we should consider everyone’s opinion.”
D. “You’d better listen to me.”
Answer: D. “You’d better listen to me.”
A nurse is caring for a client who is speaking in a loud voice with clenched fists. Which of the
following actions should the nurse take?
A. Approach the client with a friendly demeanor to calm them down.
B. Request that other staff members remain close by.
C. Tell the client to lower their voice and unclench their fists.
D. Leave the client alone to give them space.
Answer: B. Request that other staff members remain close by.
A nurse is caring for a client in an inpatient mental health facility who gets up from a chair and
throws it across the day room. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?
A. Call for a code to alert the emergency response team.
B. Restrain the client immediately to prevent further violence.
C. Move the client away from others.
D. Document the incident in the client’s medical record.
Answer: C. Move the client away from others.
A nurse is caring for a client who is screaming at staff members and other clients. Which of the
following is a therapeutic response by the nurse to the client?
A. “Stop screaming, and walk with me outside.”
B. “Why are you screaming at everyone?”
C. “You need to calm down right now.”
D. “If you don’t stop screaming, you will have to leave.”
Answer: A. “Stop screaming, and walk with me outside.”

A nurse is caring for a client who is screaming at staff members and other clients. Which of the
following is a therapeutic response by the nurse to the client?
A. "Stop screaming, and walk with me outside."
B. "Why are you screaming? You need to calm down."
C. "You seem very upset. Can we talk about what's bothering you?"
D. "Please lower your voice. Other clients are getting disturbed."
Answer: C. "You seem very upset. Can we talk about what's bothering you?"
ATI mental health Week 4
Chapter 12, 19, 20-21, 33
Chapter 12- Trauma and Stressor related disorders
A nurse working on an acute mental health unit is caring for a client who has posttraumatic stress
disorder (PTSD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that
apply.)
A. Difficulty concentrating on tasks
B. Consistent, elevated mood
C. Negative self‐image
D. Recurring nightmares
E. Increased sociability
Answer: A. Difficulty concentrating on tasks
C. Negative self‐image
D. Recurring nightmares
A nurse is involved in a serious and prolonged mass casualty incident in the emergency
department. Which of the following strategies should the nurse use to help prevent developing a
trauma‐related disorder? (Select all that apply)
A. Avoid discussing the incident with colleagues.
B. Take breaks during the incident for food and water.
C. Debrief with others following the incident.
D. Work continuously without taking breaks.

E. Take advantage of offered counseling.
Answer: B. Take breaks during the incident for food and water.
C. Debrief with others following the incident.
E. Take advantage of offered counseling.
A nurse is collecting an admission history for a client who has acute stress disorder (ASD).
Which of the following information should the nurse expect to collect?
A. The client remembers many details about the traumatic incident.
B. The client is eager to discuss the details of the traumatic incident.
C. The client reports feeling very relaxed and calm about the traumatic incident.
D. The client expresses a sense of unreality about the traumatic incident.
Answer: D. The client expresses a sense of unreality about the traumatic incident.
A nurse is caring for a client who has derealization disorder. Which of the following findings
should the nurse identify as an indication of derealization?
A. The client is unable to recall important personal information.
B. The client expresses a fear of being in public places.
C. The client states that the furniture in the room seems to be small and far away.
D. The client reports feeling like they are outside of their body observing themselves.
Answer: C. The client states that the furniture in the room seems to be small and far away.
A nurse in an acute mental health facility is planning care for a client who has dissociative fugue.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse add to the plan of care?
A. Encourage the client to engage in detailed discussions about the traumatic event.
B. Expose the client to situations that may trigger memories of the fugue state.
C. Discourage the client from exploring past memories or personal history.
D. Work with the client on grounding techniques.
Answer: D. Work with the client on grounding techniques.
Chapter 19 – Eating Disorders

A nurse is preparing to obtain a nursing history from a client who has a new diagnosis of
anorexia nervosa. Which of the following questions should the nurse to include in the
assessment? (select all that apply.)
A. “What is your relationship like with your family?”
B. “How often do you exercise?”
C. “Would you describe your current eating habits?”
D. “What is your typical daily schedule like?”
E. “Can you discuss your feelings about your appearance?”
Answer: A. “What is your relationship like with your family?”
C. “Would you describe your current eating habits?”
E. “Can you discuss your feelings about your appearance?”
A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has anorexia nervosa with recent rapid weight loss
and a current weight of 90 lb. Which of the following statements indicates the client is
experiencing the cognitive distortion of catastrophizing?
A. “Life isn’t worth living if I gain weight.”
B. “I'll never be able to recover from this.”
C. “I'm going to die from starvation.”
D. “Everyone will abandon me if they see me eat.”
Answer: A. “Life isn’t worth living if I gain weight.”
A nurse is performing an admission assessment of a client who has bulimia nervosa with purging
behavior. Which of the following is an expected finding? (select all that apply.)
A. Bradycardia
B. Hypokalemia
C. Hypertension
D. Slightly elevated body weight
Answer: B. Hypokalemia
D. Slightly elevated body weight

A nurse on an acute care unit is planning care for a client who has anorexia nervosa with binge‐
eating and purging behavior. Which of the following nursing actions should the nurse include in
the client’s plan of care?
A. Encourage the client to eat meals quickly to prevent discomfort.
B. Allow the client to use the restroom immediately after meals.
C. Offer laxatives to the client if requested.
D. Implement one-to-one observation during meal times.
Answer: D. Implement one-to-one observation during meal times.
A nurse is caring for a client who has bulimia nervosa and has stopped purging behavior. The
client tells the nurse that she is afraid she is going to gain weight. Which of the following
response should the nurse make?
A. "You shouldn't worry about your weight right now."
B. "Have you considered resuming your purging behaviors?"
C. “I understand you have concerns about your weight, but first, let’s talk about your recent
accomplishments.”
D. "You need to focus on maintaining your weight at all costs."
Answer: C. “I understand you have concerns about your weight, but first, let’s talk about your
recent accomplishments.”
Chapter 20 – Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders
A nurse is discussing the risk factors for somatic symptom disorder with a newly licensed nurse.
Which of the following risk factors should the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)
A. Recent surgery
B. Anxiety disorder
C. Female gender
D. Advanced age
Answer: B. Anxiety disorder
C. Female gender

A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has conversion disorder. Which of the
following findings should the nurse identify as placing the client at risk for conversion disorder?
A. Death of a child 2 months ago
B. History of childhood abuse
C. Family history of conversion disorder
D. Recent death of a loved one
Answer: A. Death of a child 2 months ago
A nurse is assessing a client who has illness anxiety disorder. Which of the following findings
should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
A. Obsessive thoughts about disease
B. History of childhood abuse
C. Avoidance of health care providers
D. Depressive disorder
Answer: A. Obsessive thoughts about disease
C. Avoidance of health care providers
D. Depressive disorder
A nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who has conversion disorder. Which of the
following actions should the nurse include?
A. Encourage the client to focus on physical symptoms.
B. Minimize discussions about emotional stressors.
C. Avoid addressing the client's concerns about the conversion symptoms.
D. Discuss alternative coping strategies with the client.
Answer: D. Discuss alternative coping strategies with the client.
A nurse is counseling a client who has factitious disorder imposed on another. Which of the
following client statements should the nurse expect?
A. "I don't understand why my child is always getting sick."
B. "I'm worried about my child's health, but I don't know what to do."
C. “I needed to make my son sick so that someone else would take care of him for a while.”

D. "I think my child is faking illness to get attention."
Answer: C. “I needed to make my son sick so that someone else would take care of him for a
while.”
Chapter 21- Meds for Anxiety and Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders
A nurse working in a mental health clinic is providing teaching to a client who has a new
prescription for diazepam for generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following information
should the nurse provide?
A. Take the medication on an empty stomach for better absorption.
B. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
C. Abruptly stop taking the medication if side effects occur.
D. Report confusion as a potential indication of toxicity.
Answer: D. Report confusion as a potential indication of toxicity.
A nurse working in an emergency department is caring for a client who has benzodiazepine
toxicity due to an overdose. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
A. Administering activated charcoal
B. Identifying the client’s level of orientation
C. Starting an IV for fluid administration
D. Notifying the healthcare provider
Answer: B. Identifying the client’s level of orientation
A nurse is caring for a client who is to begin taking fluoxetine for treatment of generalized
anxiety disorder. Which of the following statements indicates the client understands the use of
this medication?
A. "I can stop taking this medication abruptly if I feel better."
B. "I should take this medication with grapefruit juice to enhance its effects."
C. “I will need to discontinue this medication slowly.”
D. "I can take this medication as needed whenever I feel anxious."
Answer: C. “I will need to discontinue this medication slowly.”

A nurse is assessing a client 4 hr. after receiving an initial dose of fluoxetine Which of the
following findings should the nurse report to the provider as indications of serotonin syndrome?
(select all that apply.)
A. Bradypnea
B. Hallucinations
C. Hypotension
D. Diaphoresis
E. Agitation
Answer: B. Hallucinations
D. Diaphoresis
E. Agitation
A nurse is caring for a client who takes paroxetine to treat posttraumatic stress disorder. The
client states that he grinds his teeth during the night, which causes pain in his mouth. the nurse
should identify which of the following interventions as possible measures to manage the client’s
bruxism? (select all that apply.)
A. concurrent administration of buspirone. concurrent administration of a low‐dose of buspirone
is an effective measure to manage the adverse effect of paroxetine.
A. Concurrent administration of buspirone.
B. Use of a mouth guard.
C. Changing to a different class of antianxiety medication.
D. Changing to a different class of anxiety medication
Answer: C. Changing to a different class of antianxiety medication.
Chapter 33 – Sexual Assault
A nurse is discussing silent rape reaction with a newly licensed nurse. the nurse should identify
which of the following characteristics as expected for this type of reaction? (Select all that
apply.)
A. Sudden development of phobias

B. Increased level of anxiety during interview
C. Disinterest in social activities
D. Difficulty concentrating
E. Unwillingness to discuss the sexual assault
Answer: A. Sudden development of phobias
E. Unwillingness to discuss the sexual assault
A nurse is assessing a client who experienced sexual assault. Which of the following findings
indicate the client is experiencing an emotional reaction of rape‐trauma syndrome? (Select all
that apply.)
A. Withdrawal
B. Anxiety
C. Depression
D. Emotional outbursts indicate an expressed initial reaction of rape‐trauma syndrome.
E. Difficulty making decisions indicates a controlled initial reaction of rape‐trauma syndrome.
Answer: D. Emotional outbursts indicate an expressed initial reaction of rape‐trauma syndrome.
E. Difficulty making decisions indicates a controlled initial reaction of rape‐trauma syndrome.
A nurse is discussing the care of a client following a sexual assault with a newly licensed nurse.
Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of
teaching?
A. “I will administer prophylactic treatment for sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia.”
The nurse should administer prophylactic treatment for infections such as chlamydia according
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
B. “I will wait for the client to request prophylactic treatment before administering it.”
C. “I will not administer prophylactic treatment unless the client shows symptoms of an
infection.”
D. “I will administer prophylactic treatment only if the client consents to it.”
Answer: A. “I will administer prophylactic treatment for sexually transmitted infections, like
chlamydia.” The nurse should administer prophylactic treatment for infections such as chlamydia
according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A nurse is caring for a client who was recently raped. the client states, “I never should have been
out on the street alone at night.” Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
A. “It's not your fault. You shouldn't blame yourself for what happened.”
B. “You should have been more careful about where you went.”
C. “You believe this wouldn’t have happened if you hadn’t been out alone?” This response uses
the therapeutic communication technique of restating, which promotes reflection and
verbalization of feelings.
D. “You need to focus on your recovery now and not dwell on the past.”
Answer: C. “You believe this wouldn’t have happened if you hadn’t been out alone?” This
response uses the therapeutic communication technique of restating, which promotes reflection
and verbalization of feelings.
A community health nurse is leading a discussion about rape with a neighborhood task force.
Which of the following statements by a neighborhood citizen indicates an understanding of the
teaching?
A. "Rape is usually committed by strangers."
B. "Acquaintance rape often involves alcohol."
C. "Rape only happens at night."
D. "Victims of rape usually fight back."
Answer: B. "Acquaintance rape often involves alcohol."
WEEK 5
Chapter 11 – Anxiety Disorders
A nurse observes a client who has OCD repeatedly applying, removing, and then reapplying
makeup. the nurse identifies that repetitive behavior in a client who has OCD is due to which of
the following underlying reasons?
A. Fear of contamination
B. Need for attention
C. Attempt to reduce anxiety

D. Desire for perfection
Answer: C. Attempt to reduce anxiety
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a panic attack. Which of the following actions
should the nurse take?
A. Encourage the client to talk about their feelings.
B. Leave the client alone for a few minutes.
C. Ask the client to try deep breathing exercises.
D. Stay with the client and remain quiet.
Answer: D. Stay with the client and remain quiet.
A nurse is assessing a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following
findings should the nurse expect? (select all that apply.)
A. Excessive worry for 6 months.
B. Restlessness.
C. Flashbacks.
D. Hallucinations.
E. Need for reassurance.
Answer: B. Restlessness.
E. Need for reassurance.
A nurse is planning care for a client who has body dysmorphic disorder. Which of the following
actions should the nurse plan to take first?
A. Assessing the client’s risk for self-harm.
B. Encouraging the client to engage in social activities.
C. Teaching the client relaxation techniques.
D. Providing education about body image distortion.
Answer: A. Assessing the client’s risk for self-harm.
A nurse is caring for a client who has acute stress disorder and is experiencing severe anxiety.
Which of the following statements actions should the nurse make?

A. “Tell me about how you are feeling right now.”
B. “You need to relax and calm down.”
C. “Why do you think you're feeling this way?”
D. “Let's focus on something else to distract you.”
Answer: A. “Tell me about how you are feeling right now.”
Chapter 29 – Crisis Management
A nurse is conducting chart reviews of multiple clients at a community mental health facility.
Which of the following events is an example of client experiencing a maturational crisis?
A. Losing a job.
B. Marriage.
C. Witnessing a traumatic event.
D. Developing a chronic illness.
Answer: B. Marriage.
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a crisis. Which of the following medications
might the provider prescribe? (select all that apply.)
A. Risperidone.
B. Paroxetine.
C. Haloperidol.
D. Fluoxetine.
E. Lorazepam.
Answer: B. Paroxetine.
E. Lorazepam.
Chapter 30 – Suicide
A nurse is assessing a client who has major depressive disorder. The nurse should identify which
of the following client statements as an overt comment about suicide? (Select all that apply)
A. “My family will be better off if I’m dead.”

B. “I wish my life was over.”
C. “If I kill myself then my problems will go away.”
Answer: A. “My family will be better off if I’m dead.”
A nurse is caring for a client who states, “i plan to commit suicide.” Which of the following
assessments should the nurse identify as the priority?
A. “My family will be better off if I’m dead.”
B. “I wish my life was over.”
C. “If I kill myself then my problems will go away.”
D. None
Answer: A. “My family will be better off if I’m dead.”
B. “I wish my life was over.”
C. “If I kill myself then my problems will go away.”
A nurse is assisting with the development of protocols to address the increasing number of
suicide attempts in the community. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include
as a primary intervention? (Select all that apply.)
A. Conducting a suicide risk screening on all new clients
B. Providing counseling services to individuals who have attempted suicide
C. Educating high school teens about suicide prevention
D. Facilitating support groups for families affected by suicide
E. Teaching middle‐school educators about warning indicators of suicide
Answer: A. Conducting a suicide risk screening on all new clients
C. Educating high school teens about suicide prevention
E. Teaching middle‐school educators about warning indicators of suicide
A nurse is caring for a client who is on suicide precautions. Which of the following interventions
should the nurse include in the plan of?
A. Allowing the client to have privacy during meals
B. Assigning the client to a private room
C. Ensuring that the client swallows medication

D. Permitting the client to keep personal items
Answer: C. Ensuring that the client swallows medication
A nurse is conducting a class for a group of newly licensed nurses on caring for clients who are
at risk for suicide. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A. Clients who talk about suicide are unlikely to attempt it.
B. It is safe to leave a suicidal client alone for short periods.
C. Suicidal clients often give warning signs before an attempt.
D. A no suicide contract decreases the client’s risk for suicide.
Answer: D. A no suicide contract decreases the client’s risk for suicide.
Chapter 31 – Anger management
A nurse is conducting group therapy with a group of clients. Which of the following statements
made by a client is an example of aggressive communication?
A. “I feel upset when you interrupt me.”
B. “I think we should try to work together more.”
C. “I don’t agree with your opinion, but I respect it.”
D. “You’d better listen to me.”
Answer: D. “You’d better listen to me.”
A nurse is caring for a client who is speaking in a loud voice with clenched fists.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A. Leave the client alone until they calm down.
B. Request that other staff members remain close by to assist if necessary.
C. Confront the client about their behavior.
D. Instruct the client to lower their voice.
Answer: B. Request that other staff members remain close by to assist if necessary.

A nurse is assessing a client in an inpatient mental health unit. Which of the following findings
should the nurse expect if the client is in the preassaultive stage of violence? (Select all that
apply.)
A. Cooperative behavior
B. Defensive responses to questions
C. Relaxed posture
D. Facial grimacing
E. Agitation
Answer: B. Defensive responses to questions
D. Facial grimacing
E. Agitation
A nurse is caring for a client in an inpatient mental health facility who gets up from a chair and
throws it across the day room. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?
A. Call for assistance from other staff members
B. Administer PRN medication to calm the client
C. Move the client away from others
D. Document the incident in the client's medical record
Answer: C. Move the client away from others
A nurse is caring for a client who is screaming at staff members and other clients. Which of the
following is a therapeutic response by the nurse to the client?
A. “Stop screaming and walk me outside”
B. “You need to calm down right now”
C. “Why are you yelling at everyone?”
D. “I understand that you’re upset, let’s talk about it calmly”
Answer: A. “Stop screaming and walk me outside”
Week 6
Chapter 27-28
Chapter 27 – Care of Clients who are dying and/ or grieving

A nurse is caring for a client following the loss of her partner due to a terminal illness. identify
the sequence of Engel’s five stages of grief that the nurse should expect the client to experience.
(select the stages of grief in order of occurrence. all steps must be used.)
A. Developing awareness
B. restitution
C. shock and disbelief
D. recovery
E. resolution of the loss
Answer: C. Shock and disbelief
A. Developing awareness
B. Restitution
D. Recovery
E. Resolution of the loss
A charge nurse is reviewing Kübler‐ross: five stages of grief with a group of newly licensed
nurses. Which of the following stages should the charge nurse include in the teaching? (select all
that apply.)
A. Acceptance
B. Denial
C. Bargaining
D. Anger
E. Depression
Answer: B. Denial
C. Bargaining
D. Anger
E. Depression
A nurse is working with a client who has recently lost his mother. The nurse recognizes that
which of the following factors influence a client’s grief and coping ability? (select all that apply.)
A. Interpersonal relationships

B. Culture
C. Socioeconomic status
D. Religious beliefs
E. Prior experience with loss
Answer: A. Interpersonal relationships
B. Culture
D. Religious beliefs
E. Prior experience with loss
A nurse is discussing normal grief with a client who recently lost a child. Which of the following
statements made by the client indicates understanding? (select all that apply.)
A. “I may experience feelings of resentment.”
B. “I will probably withdraw from others.”
C. “I can expect to experience changes in sleep.”
D. Religious beliefs
Answer: A. “I may experience feelings of resentment.”
C. “I can expect to experience changes in sleep.”
A nurse is caring for a client who lost his mother to cancer last month. the client states, “I’d still
have my mother if the doctor would have diagnosed her sooner.” Which of the following
responses should the nurse make?
A. “You sound angry.
B. “You sound happy”
C. “You sound sad”
D. “You sound joy”
Answer: A. “You sound angry.
Chapter 28 – Mental Health Issues of children and adolescents

A nurse is assisting the parents of a school‐age child who has oppositional defiant disorder in
identifying strategies to promote positive behavior. Which of the following is an appropriate
strategy for the nurse to recommend? (select all that apply.)
A. Punish the child for unacceptable behavior.
B. Ignore the child's negative behaviors.
C. Develop a reward system for acceptable behavior.
D. Encourage the child to participate in school sports.
E. Be consistent when addressing unacceptable behavior.
Answer: C. Develop a reward system for acceptable behavior.
D. Encourage the child to participate in school sports.
E. Be consistent when addressing unacceptable behavior.
A nurse is performing an admission assessment on an adolescent client who has depression.
Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply)
A. Fear of being alone
B. Substance use
C. Weight gain
D. Irritability
E. Aggressiveness
Answer: B. Substance use
D. Irritability
E. Aggressiveness
A nurse is obtaining a health history from the parents of a 12‐year‐old client who has conduct
disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (select all that apply.)
A. Bullying of others
B. Threats of suicide
C. Law breaking activities
D. Narcissistic behavior
E. Extreme shyness
Answer: A. Bullying of others

B. Threats of suicide
C. Law breaking activities
A nurse in a pediatric clinic is caring for a preschool‐age child who has a new diagnosis of
ADHD. When teaching the parent about this disorder, which of the following statements should
the nurse include in the teaching?
A. "This disorder is caused by poor parenting skills."
B. "Medication is the only effective treatment for this disorder."
C. "Your child will outgrow this disorder by adolescence."
D. "Because of this disorder, your child is at an increased risk for injury."
Answer: D. "Because of this disorder, your child is at an increased risk for injury."
A nurse is assessing a 4‐year‐old child for indications of autism spectrum disorder. for which of
the following manifestations should the nurse assess?
A. Delayed physical growth
B. Repetitive counting
C. Advanced verbal skills
D. Increased social interactions
Answer: B. Repetitive counting
Week 7
Chapter 25
Chapter 25 – Meds for Children and adolescents who have mental health issues
A nurse is teaching the parents of a child who has autism spectrum disorder and a new
prescription for imipramine about indications of toxicity. Which of the following should the
nurse include in the teaching? (select all that apply.)
A. Seizures
B. Agitation
C. Irregular pulse
D. Excessive salivation

E. Diarrhea
Answer: A. Seizures
B. Agitation
C. Irregular pulse
A nurse is providing teaching to an adolescent client who has a new prescription for
clomipramine for OCD. Which of the following information should the nurse provide?
A. Eat a diet high in fiber
B. Restrict caffeine intake
C. Avoid exposure to sunlight
D. Take the medication on an empty stomach
Answer: A. Eat a diet high in fiber
A nurse is providing teaching to an adolescent client who is to begin taking atomoxetine for
ADHD. the nurse should instruct the client to monitor for which of the following adverse
effects? (select all that apply.)
A. Weight gain
B. Yellowing skin
C. Fever
D. Malaise
E. Increased appetite
Answer: B. Yellowing skin
C. Fever
D. Malaise
A nurse is caring for a school age child who has conduct disorder and a new prescription for
methylphenidate transdermal patches. Which of the following information should the nurse
provide about the medication?
A. Apply the patch on alternating days
B. Remove the patch for 1 hour each afternoon
C. Apply the patch at bedtime

D. Remove the patch each day after 9 hr
Answer: D. Remove the patch each day after 9 hr
A nurse is teaching a client who has intermittent explosive disorder about a new prescription for
fluoxetine. Which of the following information should the nurse provide? (select all that apply.)
A. Avoid foods containing tyramine
B. Administer the medication in the morning
C. Monitor for weight loss while taking this medication
D. Take the medication with food
E. This medication blocks the synaptic reuptake of serotonin in the brain
Answer: B. Administer the medication in the morning
C. Monitor for weight loss while taking this medication
E. This medication blocks the synaptic reuptake of serotonin in the brain
ATI Mental Health
Chapter 10 Brain Stimulation Therapies
A nurse is providing teaching for a client who is scheduled to receive ECT for the treatment of
major depressive disorder. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of
the teaching?
A. “It is common to treat depression with ECT before trying medications.”
B. “I can have my depression cured if I receive a series of ECT treatments.”
C. “I should receive ECT once a week for 6 weeks.”
D. “I will receive a muscle relaxant to protect me from injury during ECT.”
Answer: D. “I will receive a muscle relaxant to protect me from injury during ECT.”
A charge nurse is discussing TMS with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A. “TMS is indicated for clients who have schizophrenia spectrum disorders.”
B. “I will provide post anesthesia care following TMS.”
C. “TMS treatments usually last 5 to 10 minutes.”

D. “I will schedule the client for daily TMS treatments for the first several weeks.”
Answer: D. “I will schedule the client for daily TMS treatments for the first several weeks.”
A nurse is assessing a client immediately following an ECT procedure. Which of the following
findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
A. Hypotension.
B. Paralytic ileus.
C. Memory loss.
D. Nausea.
E. Confusion.
Answer: C. Memory loss.
D. Nausea.
E. Confusion.
A nurse is leading a peer group discussion about the indications for ECT. Which of the following
indications should the nurse include in the discussion?
A. Borderline personality disorder.
B. Acute withdrawal related to a substance use disorder.
C. Bipolar disorder with rapid cycling.
D. Dysphoric disorder.
Answer: C. Bipolar disorder with rapid cycling.
A nurse is planning care for a client following surgical implantation of a VNS device. The nurse
should plan to monitor for which of the following adverse effects? (Select all that apply.)
A. Voice changes.
B. Seizure activity.
C. Disorientation.
D. Dysphagia.
E. Neck pain.
Answer: A. Voice changes.
D. Dysphagia.

E. Neck pain.
Chapter 16 Personality Disorders
A nurse manager is discussing the care of a client who has a personality disorder with a newly
licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an
understanding of the teaching?
A. “I can promote my client’s sense of control by establishing a schedule.”
B. “I should encourage clients who have a schizoid personality disorder to increase
socialization.”
C. “I should practice limit-setting to help prevent client manipulation.”
D. “I should implement assertiveness training with clients who have antisocial personality
disorder.”
Answer: C. “I should practice limit-setting to help prevent client manipulation.”
A nurse is caring for a client who has avoidant personality disorder. Which of the following
statements is expected from a client who has this type of personality disorder?
A. “I’m scared that you’re going to leave me.”
B. “I’ll go to group therapy if you’ll let me smoke.”
C. “I need to feel that everyone admires me.”
D. “I sometimes feel better if I cut myself.”
Answer: A. “I’m scared that you’re going to leave me.”
A nurse is caring for a client who has borderline personality disorder. The client says, “The nurse
on the evening shift is always nice! You are the meanest nurse ever!” The nurse should recognize
the client’s statement as an example of which of the following defense mechanisms?
A. Regression.
B. Splitting.
C. Undoing.
D. Identification.
Answer: B. Splitting.

A nurse is assisting with a court-ordered evaluation of a client who has antisocial personality
disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)
A. Demonstrates extreme anxiety when placed in a social situation.
B. Has difficulty making even simple decisions.
C. Attempts to convince other clients to give him their belongings.
D. Becomes agitated if his personal area is not neat and orderly.
E. Blames others for his past and current problems.
Answer: C. Attempts to convince other clients to give him their belongings.
E. Blames others for his past and current problems.
A charge nurse is preparing a staff education session on personality disorders. Which of the
following personality characteristics associated with all of the personality disorders should the
charge nurse include in the teaching?
A. Difficulty in getting along with other members of a group.
B. Belief in the ability to become invisible during times of stress.
C. Display of defense mechanisms when routines are changed.
D. Claiming to be more important than other persons.
E. Difficulty understanding why it is inappropriate to have a personal relationship with staff.
Answer: A. Difficulty in getting along with other members of a group.
C. Display of defense mechanisms when routines are changed.
E. Difficulty understanding why it is inappropriate to have a personal relationship with staff.
Chapter 21 Medications for Anxiety and Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders
A nurse working in a mental health clinic is providing teaching to a client who has a new
prescription for diazepam for generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following information
should the nurse provide?
A. Three to six weeks of treatment is required to achieve therapeutic benefit.
B. Combining alcohol with diazepam will produce a paradoxical response.
C. Diazepam has a lower risk for dependence than other antianxiety medications.

D. Report confusion as a potential indication of toxicity.
Answer: D. Report confusion as a potential indication of toxicity.
A nurse working in an emergency department is caring for a client who has benzodiazepine
toxicity due to an overdose. Which of the following actions is the nurse’s priority?
A. Administer flumazenil.
B. Identify the client’s level of orientation.
C. Infuse IV fluids.
D. Prepare the client for gastric lavage.
Answer: B. Identify the client’s level of orientation.
A nurse is caring for a client who is to begin taking fluoxetine for treatment of generalized
anxiety disorder. Which of the following statements indicates the client understands the use of
this medication?
A. “I will take the medication at bedtime.”
B. “I will follow a low-sodium diet while taking this medication.”
C. “I will need to discontinue this medication slowly.”
D. “I will be at risk for weight loss with long-term use of this medication.”
Answer: C. “I will need to discontinue this medication slowly.”
A nurse is assessing a client 4 hr after receiving an initial dose of fluoxetine. Which of the
following findings should the nurse report to the provider as indications of serotonin syndrome?
(Select all that apply.)
A. Hypothermia.
B. Hallucinations.
C. Muscular flaccidity.
D. Diaphoresis.
E. Agitation.
Answer: B. Hallucinations.
D. Diaphoresis.
E. Agitation.

A nurse is caring for a client who takes paroxetine to treat posttraumatic stress disorder. The
client states that he grinds his teeth during the night, which causes pain in his mouth. The nurse
should identify which of the following interventions as possible measures to manages the client’s
bruxism? (Select all that apply.)
A. Concurrent administration of buspirone.
B. Administration of a different SSRI.
C. Use of a mouth guard.
D. Changing to a different class of antianxiety medication.
E. Increasing the dose of paroxetine.
Answer: A. Concurrent administration of buspirone.
C. Use of a mouth guard.
D. Changing to a different class of antianxiety medication.
Chapter 22 Medications for Depressive Disorders
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new prescription for amitriptyline. Which of
the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A. “While taking this medication, I’ll need to stay out of the sun to avoid a skin rash.”
B. “I may feel drowsy for a few weeks after starting this medication.”
C. “I cannot eat my favorite pizza with pepperoni while taking this medication.”
D. “This medication will help me lose the weight that I have gained over the last year.”
Answer: B. “I may feel drowsy for a few weeks after starting this medication.”
A nurse is caring for a client who is taking phenelzine. For which of the following adverse
effects should the nurse monitor? (Select all that apply.)
A. Elevated blood glucose levels.
B. Orthostatic hypotension.
C. Priapism.
D. Headache.
E. Bruxism.

Answer: B. Orthostatic hypotension.
D. Headache.
A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a new prescription for bupropion for
depression. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
A. The client has a family history of seasonal pattern depression.
B. The client currently smokes 1.5 packs of cigarettes per day.
C. The client had a motor vehicle crash last year and sustained a head injury.
D. The client has a BMI of 25 and has gained 10 lb over the last year.
Answer: C. The client had a motor vehicle crash last year and sustained a head injury.
A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for imipramine how to minimize
anticholinergic effects. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the
teaching? (Select all that apply.)
A. Void just before taking the medication.
B. Increase the dietary intake of potassium
C. Wear sunglasses when outside.
D. Change positions slowly when getting up.
E. Chew sugarless gum.
Answer: A. Void just before taking the medication.
C. Wear sunglasses when outside.
E. Chew sugarless gum.
A charge nurse is discussing mirtazapine with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates understanding?
A. “This medication increases the release of serotonin and norepinephrine.”
B. “I will need to monitor the client for hyponatremia while taking this medication.”
C. “This medication is contraindicated for clients who have an eating disorder.”
D. “Sexual dysfunction is a common adverse effect of this medication.”
Answer: A. “This medication increases the release of serotonin and norepinephrine.”

Chapter 23 Medications for Bipolar Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who is prescribed lithium therapy. The client states that he wants to
take ibuprofen for osteoarthritis pain relief. Which of the following statements should the nurse
make?
A. “That is a good choice. Ibuprofen does not interact with lithium.”
B. “Regular aspirin would be a better choice than ibuprofen.”
C. “Lithium decreases the effectiveness of ibuprofen.”
D. “The ibuprofen will make your lithium level fall too low.”
Answer: B. “Regular aspirin would be a better choice than ibuprofen.”
A nurse is discussing early indications of toxicity with a client who has a new prescription for
lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder. The nurse should include which of the following
manifestations in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)
A. Constipation.
B. Polyuria.
C. Rash.
D. Muscle weakness.
E. Tinnitus.
Answer: B. Polyuria.
D. Muscle weakness.
A nurse is discussing routine follow-up needs with a client who has a new prescription for
valproate. The nurse should inform the client of the need for routine monitoring of which of the
following?
A. AST/ALT and LDH.
B. Creatinine and BUN.
C. WBC and granulocyte counts.
D. Serum sodium and potassium.
Answer: A. AST/ALT and LDH.

A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing extreme mania due to bipolar disorder. Prior to
administration of lithium carbonate, the client’s lithium blood level is 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the
following actions should the nurse take?
A. Administer the next dose of lithium carbonate as scheduled.
B. Prepare for administration of aminophylline.
C. Notify the provider for a possible increase in the dosage of lithium carbonate.
D. Request a stat repeat of the client’s lithium blood level.
Answer: A. Administer the next dose of lithium carbonate as scheduled.
A nurse is admitting a client who has a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder and is scheduled to
begin lithium therapy. When collecting a medical history from the client’s adult daughter, which
of the following statements is the priority to report to the provider?
A. “My mother has diabetes that is controlled by her diet.”
B. “My mother recently completed a course of prednisone for acute bronchitis.”
C. “My mother received her flu vaccine last month.”
D. “My mother is currently on furosemide for her congestive heart failure.”
Answer: D. “My mother is currently on furosemide for her congestive heart failure.”
Chapter 24 Medications for Psychotic Disorders
A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and exhibits a lack of grooming and a flat
affect. The nurse should anticipate a prescription of which of the following medications?
A. Chlorpromazine.
B. Thiothixene.
C. Risperidone.
D. Haloperidol.
Answer: C. Risperidone.
A nurse is caring for a client who takes ziprasidone. The client reports difficulty swallowing the
oral medication and becomes extremely agitated with injectable administration. The nurse should

contact the provider to discuss a change to which of the following medications? (Select all that
apply.)
A. Olanzapine.
B. Quetiapine.
C. Aripiprazole.
D. Clozapine.
E. Asenapine.
Answer: C. Aripiprazole.
D. Clozapine.
E. Asenapine.
A charge nurse is discussing manifestations of schizophrenia with a newly licensed nurse. Which
of the following manifestations should the charge nurse identify as being effectively treated by
first-generation antipsychotics? (Select all that apply.)
A. Auditory hallucinations.
B. Withdrawal from social situations.
C. Delusions of grandeur.
D. Severe agitation.
E. Anhedonia.
Answer: A. Auditory hallucinations.
C. Delusions of grandeur.
D. Severe agitation.
A nurse is assessing a client who is currently taking perphenazine. Which of the following
findings should the nurse identify as an extrapyramidal symptom (EPS)? (Select all that apply.)
A. Decreased level of consciousness.
B. Drooling.
C. Involuntary arm movements.
D. Urinary retention.
E. Continual pacing.
Answer: B. Drooling.

C. Involuntary arm movements.
E. Continual pacing.
A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who has schizophrenia and a new
prescription for iloperidone. Which of the following client statements indicates understanding of
the teaching?
A. “I will be able to stop taking this medication as soon as I feel better.”
B. “If I feel drowsy during the day, I will stop taking this medication and call my provider.”
C. “I will be careful not to gain too much weight while taking this medication.”
D. “This medication is highly addictive and must be withdrawn slowly.”
Answer: C. “I will be careful not to gain too much weight while taking this medication.”
Chapter 25 Medications for Children and Adolescents Who Have Mental Health Issues
A nurse is teaching the parents of a child who has autism spectrum disorder and a new
prescription for imipramine about indications of toxicity. Which of the following should the
nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)
A. Seizures.
B. Agitation.
C. Photophobia.
D. Dry mouth.
E. Irregular pulse.
Answer: A. Seizures.
B. Agitation.
E. Irregular pulse.
A nurse is providing teaching to an adolescent client who has a new prescription for
clomipramine for OCD. Which of the following information should the nurse provide?
A. Eat a diet high in fiber.
B. Check temperature daily.
C. Take medication first thing in the morning before eating.

D. Add extra calories to the diet as between-meal snacks.
Answer: A. Eat a diet high in fiber.
A nurse is providing teaching to an adolescent client who is to begin taking atomoxetine for
ADHD. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for which of the following adverse
effects? (Select all that apply.)
A. Somnolence.
B. Yellowing skin.
C. Increased appetite.
D. Fever.
E. Malaise.
Answer: B. Yellowing skin.
D. Fever.
E. Malaise.
A nurse is caring for a school age child who has conduct disorder and a new prescription for
methylphenidate transdermal patches. Which of the following information should the nurse
provide about the medication?
A. Apply the patch once daily at bedtime.
B. Place the patch carefully in a trash can after removal.
C. Apply the transdermal patch to the anterior waist area.
D. Remove the patch each day after 9 hr.
Answer: D. Remove the patch each day after 9 hr.
A nurse is teaching a client who has intermittent explosive disorder about a new prescription for
fluoxetine. Which of the following information should the nurse provide? (Select all that apply.)
A. An adverse effect of this medication is CNS depression.
B. Administer the medication in the morning.
C. Monitor for weight loss while taking this medication.
D. Therapeutic effects of this medication will take 1 to 3 weeks to fully develop.
E. This medication blocks the synaptic reuptake of serotonin in the brain.

Answer: B. Administer the medication in the morning.
C. Monitor for weight loss while taking this medication.
E. This medication blocks the synaptic reuptake of serotonin in the brain.
Chapter 26 Medications for Substance Use Disorders
A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has alcohol use disorder and a new prescription for
carbamazepine. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A. “This medication will help prevent seizures during alcohol withdrawal.”
B. “Taking this medication will decrease your cravings for alcohol.”
C. “This medication maintains your blood pressure at a normal level during alcohol withdrawal.”
D. “Taking this medication will improve your ability to maintain abstinence from alcohol.”
Answer: A. “This medication will help prevent seizures during alcohol withdrawal.”
A nurse is assisting in the discharge planning for a client following alcohol detoxification. The
nurse should anticipate prescriptions for which of the following medications to promote longterm abstinence from alcohol? (Select all that apply.)
A. Lorazepam.
B. Diazepam.
C. Disulfiram.
D. Naltrexone.
E. Acamprosate.
Answer: C. Disulfiram.
D. Naltrexone.
E. Acamprosate.
A nurse is evaluating a client’s understanding of a new prescription for clonidine for the
treatment of opioid use disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an
understanding of the teaching?
A. “Taking this medication will help reduce my craving for heroin.”
B. “While taking this medication, I should keep a pack of sugarless gum.”

C. “I can expect some diarrhea from taking this medicine.”
D. “Each dose of this medication should be placed under my tongue to dissolve.”
Answer: B. “While taking this medication, I should keep a pack of sugarless gum.”
A nurse is teaching a client who has tobacco use disorder about the use of nicotine gum. Which
of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A. Chew the gum for no more than 10 minutes.
B. Rinse out the mouth immediately before chewing the gum.
C. Avoid eating 15 minutes prior to chewing the gum.
D. Use of the gum is limited to 90 days.
Answer: C. Avoid eating 15 minutes prior to chewing the gum.
A nurse is discussing the use of methadone with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following
statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching? (Select all
that apply.)
A. “Methadone is a replacement for physical dependence to opioids.”
B. “Methadone reduces the unpleasant effects associated with abstinence syndrome.”
C. “Methadone can be used during opioid withdrawal and to maintain abstinence.”
D. “Methadone increases the risk for acetaldehyde syndrome.”
E. “Methadone must be prescribed and dispensed by an approved treatment center.”
Answer: A. “Methadone is a replacement for physical dependence to opioids.”
B. “Methadone reduces the unpleasant effects associated with abstinence syndrome.”
C. “Methadone can be used during opioid withdrawal and to maintain abstinence.”
E. “Methadone must be prescribed and dispensed by an approved treatment center.”