The nurse is caring for a client scheduled for electroconvulsive thera

Mental Health RN NCLEX Questions

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Question 1 of 5.

The nurse is caring for a client scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for the first time. The client's spouse asks about visiting the client after the procedure. It would be appropriate for the nurse to inform the visitor that

A. You may visit as long as you wear the required surgical mask while visiting to prevent infection.'

B. You may visit, but your spouse may have a few seizures after this procedure.'

C. You may visit, but you will have to wear a lead apron and stay six feet from the client.'

D. You may visit but may notice that your spouse may have some memory problems immediately after this procedure.'

Explanation: Memory problems, particularly short-term memory loss, are a common side effect of ECT, and informing the spouse prepares them for expected post-procedure effects.

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.