While coaching a youth soccer team, the nurse has observed one of the

NCLEX RN Mental Health Questions

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Question 1 of 5.

While coaching a youth soccer team, the nurse has observed one of the teammates bingeing and purging on multiple occasions. The nurse asks the girl's mother to stay after practice and talk privately. Which of the following ways is best for the nurse to begin the conversation?

A. Your daughter is a wonderful addition to the team. She's a very good player and is also pleasant and easy to coach.'

B. I have some very bad news for you. Your daughter has a serious problem that is diagnosed as an eating disorder.'

C. I am a nurse, I have seen your daughter doing things that are considered to be part of an eating disorder.'

D. Let me get right to the point. Your daughter is very sick and needs to see a mental health therapist right away.'

Explanation: Starting with the nurse's professional observation is direct yet sensitive, opening the conversation about the concerning behavior.

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 (0.6â€“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.