NCLEX RN Questions on Psychiatric Nursing
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Question 1 of 5.
Based on a client's history of violence toward others and her inability to cope with anger, which of the following should the nurse use as the most important indicator of goal achievement before discharge?
A. Acknowledgment of her angry feelings.
B. Ability to describe situations that provoke angry feelings.
C. Development of a list of how she has handled her anger in the past.
D. Verbalization of her feelings in an appropriate manner.
Explanation: Verbalizing feelings appropriately is the most important indicator, as it demonstrates the ability to express anger constructively, reducing the risk of violence. Acknowledging feelings, describing triggers, or listing past behaviors are steps but less definitive than appropriate expression.
Question 2 of 5.
The nurse is conducting an intake interview with an Asian American female who reports sadness, physical and mental fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. Prior to the client's time with the physician, it is important for the nurse to obtain information about the client's use of which of the following? Select all that apply.
A. Tea.
B. Herbal medicine.
C. Breathing exercise.
D. Massage.
E. Folk healer.
Explanation: Herbal medicine, breathing exercises, massage, and folk healers may impact treatment or interact with medications, requiring assessment.
Question 3 of 5.
A client diagnosed with major depression spends most of the day lying in bed with the sheet pulled over his head. Which of the following approaches by the nurse is most therapeutic?
A. Wait for the client to begin the conversation.
B. Initiate contact with the client frequently.
C. Sit outside the client's room.
D. Question the client until he responds.
Explanation: Frequent initiation of contact shows care and encourages engagement without overwhelming the client.
Question 4 of 5.
During a group session, a client who is depressed tells the group that he lost his job. Which of the following responses by the nurse is best?
A. It must have been very upsetting for you.'
B. Would you tell us about your job.'
C. You'll find another job when you're better.'
D. You were probably too depressed to work.'
Explanation: Acknowledging the emotional impact validates the client's feelings and fosters therapeutic rapport.
Question 5 of 5.
A client with major depression and psychotic features is admitted involuntarily to the hospital. He will not eat because his 'bowels have turned to jelly,' which the client states is punishment for his wickedness. The client requests to leave the hospital. The nurse denies the request because commitment papers have been initiated by the physician. Which of the following should the nurse identify as a criterion for the client to be legally committable?
A. Evidence of psychosis.
B. Being gravely disabled.
C. Risk of harm to self or others.
D. Diagnosis of mental illness.
Explanation: Risk of harm to self or others is a primary criterion for involuntary commitment to ensure safety.
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