NCLEX RN Mental Health Questions
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Question 1 of 5.
A soldier is stationed in Iraq on his second tour of duty. His division was notified of the date they will be deployed to Afghanistan. As this date approaches, he is showing signs of excess anxiety and irritability and inability to sleep at night because of nightmares of IED (improvised explosive devices) tragedies, all leading to poor work performance. He is admitted to the base hospital for an evaluation. The admitting nurse should take the following actions in order of priority from first to last?
- A. Remind him that any feelings and problems he is having are typical in his current situation.
- B. Ask him to talk about his upsetting experiences in Iraq.
- C. Remove any weapons and dangerous items he has in his possession.
- D. Acknowledge any injustices/unfairness related to his experiences and offer empathy and support.
- C. Remove any weapons and dangerous items he has in his possession.
- A. Remind him that any feelings and problems he is having are typical in his current situation.
- D. Acknowledge any injustices/unfairness related to his experiences and offer empathy and support.
- B. Ask him to talk about his upsetting experiences in Iraq.
Correct arrangement
Explanation: The order is: 1) Remove weapons for safety (C). 2) Remind him feelings are typical to normalize symptoms (A). 3) Acknowledge injustices and offer empathy to build rapport (D). 4) Ask about experiences to explore trauma (B). Safety is the priority, followed by support and exploration.
Question 2 of 5.
The nurse is planning care with a Mexican American client who is diagnosed with depression. The client believes in 'mal ojo' (the evil eye), and uses treatment by a root healer. The nurse should do which of the following?
A. Avoid talking to the client about the root healer.
B. Explain to the client that Western medicine has a scientific, not mystical, basis.
C. Explain that such beliefs are superstitious and should be forgotten.
D. Involve the root healer in a consultation with the client, physician and nurse.
Explanation: Involving the root healer respects the client's cultural beliefs and facilitates a collaborative approach, enhancing trust and adherence to the treatment plan.
Question 3 of 5.
The nurse is reviewing the laboratory report with the client's lithium level taken that morning prior to administering the 5 p.m. dose of lithium. The lithium level is 1.8 mEq/L. The nurse should:
A. Administer the 5 p.m. dose of lithium.
B. Hold the 5 p.m. dose of lithium.
C. Give the client 8 oz (236 mL) of water with the lithium.
D. Give the lithium after the client's supper.
Explanation: A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range (0.6–1.2 mEq/L), indicating potential toxicity, so the dose should be held and the physician notified.
Question 4 of 5.
After a few minutes of conversation, a female client who is depressed wearily asks the nurse, 'Why pick me to talk to? Go talk to someone else.' Which of the following replies by the nurse is best?
A. I'm assigned to care for you today, if you'll let me.'
B. You have a lot of potential, and I'd like to help you.'
C. I'll talk to someone else later.'
D. I'm interested in you and want to help you.'
Explanation: Expressing genuine interest validates the client's worth and fosters a therapeutic relationship.
Question 5 of 5.
A male client who is very depressed exhibits psychomotor retardation, a flat affect, and apathy. The nurse observes the client to be in need of grooming and hygiene. Which of the following nursing actions is most appropriate?
A. Explaining the importance of hygiene to the client.
B. Asking the client if he is ready to shower.
C. Waiting until the client's family can participate in the client's care.
D. Stating to the client that it's time for him to take a shower.
Explanation: Asking if the client is ready respects autonomy while gently encouraging hygiene, aligning with their energy level.
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