ATI PN Mental Health Exam

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Sample questions from ATI PN Mental Health Exam

This material has 90 questions with answers and rationales. Here are the first 5.

1. 1.An adult client admitted for depression tells the practical nurse, "Nothing I do ever turns out right." Which response is most therapeutic?

   • A.Tell me about something that happened recently.
   • B.Why do you think you keep making mistakes?
   • C.Everyone feels that way sometimes.
   • D.You should focus on the things you do well.

   Rationale: Inviting a specific example encourages expression and helps clarify the client's perception. Advising the client to focus on positives prematurely redirects the conversation, while saying everyone feels this way minimizes distress. Asking why the client keeps making mistakes accepts the negative self-judgment and can sound blaming.

2. 2.During a conversation about a recent loss, a client begins crying and stops speaking. Which action should the practical nurse take?

   • A.Explain that crying will help the client recover faster.
   • B.Leave the room to provide complete privacy.
   • C.Remain quietly with the client and offer a tissue.
   • D.Change the subject until the client stops crying.

   Rationale: Therapeutic silence and presence allow the client to experience and express grief without pressure. Changing the subject discourages expression, and claiming that crying speeds recovery offers an unsupported prediction. Leaving without checking the client's preference may communicate discomfort or abandonment.

3. 3.A client who recently lost employment says, "I feel like a failure." Which responses by the practical nurse use therapeutic communication? Select all that apply.

   • A.What has losing your job been like for you?
   • B.You feel disappointed in yourself since losing your job.
   • C.We can sit together while you decide what you want to discuss.
   • D.You need to start applying for jobs immediately.
   • E.At least you have more time for your family now.

   Rationale: An open-ended question invites discussion, and reflecting the client's feelings demonstrates understanding without endorsing the negative self-label. Offering presence supports the client without demanding conversation. Pointing out extra family time minimizes the loss, while directing an immediate job search gives unsolicited advice rather than exploring the client's needs.

4. 4.A 16-year-old client asks the practical nurse, "Will you promise not to tell anyone what I say?" Which response is best?

   • A.I will never share anything you tell me.
   • B.I respect your privacy, but I must share safety concerns and information needed for your care.
   • C.Only the provider can decide whether your information is private.
   • D.Your parents are entitled to hear everything you say.

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.

5. 5.A client says, "When I leave here, I will finally end it all." Which response should the practical nurse make first?

   • A.What are your plans for work after discharge?
   • B.You have made too much progress to give up now.
   • C.I am sure your family would be devastated.
   • D.Are you thinking about killing yourself?

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.