The nurse in the mental health clinic is performing an assessment on a

Mental Health RN NCLEX Questions

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Question 1 of 5.

The nurse in the mental health clinic is performing an assessment on a client with a history of major depressive disorder and is taking prescribed medications. The client reports feeling hopeless, has withdrawn from his usual activities, and states, 'I just don't see the point anymore.' When asked about suicidal thoughts, he admits to thinking about death frequently but denies having a plan. Based on this information, the nurse should initially

A. Reassure the client and arrange for a follow-up appointment in two weeks.

B. Determine if the client has adhered to his prescribed medications.

C. Conduct a more detailed suicide risk assessment, including intent and means.

D. Notify the physician and recommend involuntary admission.

Explanation: Frequent thoughts of death indicate a high suicide risk, necessitating a detailed assessment to evaluate intent and means for immediate safety planning.

Question 2 of 5.

After a period of unsuccessful treatment with Elavil (amitriptyline), a woman diagnosed with depression is switched to Parnate (tranylcypromine). Which statement by the client indicates the client understands the side effects of Parnate?

A. I must do increase my intake of sodium.'

B. I must refrain from strenuous exercise.'

C. I must refrain from eating aged cheese or yeast products.'

D. I should decrease my intake of foods containing sugar.'

Explanation: Parnate is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and clients must avoid tyramine-rich foods like aged cheese and yeast products to prevent hypertensive crisis.

Question 3 of 5.

A nurse is conducting a psychoeducational group for family members of clients hospitalized with depression. Which family member's statement indicates a need for additional teaching?

A. My husband will slowly feel better as his medicine takes effect over the next 2 to 4 weeks.'

B. My wife will need to take her antidepressant medicine and go to group to stay well.'

C. My son will only need to attend outpatient appointments when he starts to feel depressed again.'

D. My mother might need help with grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning for a while.'

Explanation: Depression requires ongoing outpatient care to prevent relapse, not just when symptoms reappear.

Question 4 of 5.

A client is receiving paroxetine (Paxil) 20 mg every morning. After taking the first three doses, the client tells the nurse that the medication upsets his stomach. Which of the following instructions should the nurse give to the client?

A. Take the medication an hour before breakfast.'

B. Take the medication with some food.'

C. Take the medication at bedtime.'

D. Take the medication with 4 oz of orange juice.'

Explanation: Taking paroxetine with food can reduce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea.

Question 5 of 5.

A client who is depressed states, 'I'm an awful person. Everything about me is bad. I can't do anything right.' Which of the following responses by the nurse is most therapeutic?

A. Everybody around here likes you.'

B. I can see many good qualities in you.'

C. Let's discuss what you've done correctly.'

D. You were able to bathe today.'

Explanation: Discussing specific accomplishments challenges negative self-perceptions and promotes cognitive restructuring.