ATI RN Mental Health Protected 2023

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Sample questions from ATI RN Mental Health Protected 2023

This material has 60 questions with answers and rationales. Here are the first 5.

1. 1.In a school-based clinic, a 14-year-old says, "Everyone would be better off if I just disappeared." Which response should the nurse make first?

   • A.You have a lot to look forward to, so try to focus on the positive.
   • B.Are you thinking about killing yourself?
   • C.You should tell your parents that you are being so dramatic.
   • D.What has been happening that makes you feel this way?

   Rationale: Directly asking about suicide is an appropriate, clear assessment and does not increase suicidal thinking. Asking about recent events may be helpful after immediate safety is assessed, but it does not establish current risk. Reassurance minimizes the client's distress, and calling the client dramatic is judgmental and may discourage disclosure. When a client makes a statement suggesting hopelessness, assess for suicidal thoughts, plan, and intent promptly.

2. 2.Refer to the client's chart. Which responses by the nurse use therapeutic communication with the adolescent? Select all that apply.

   • A.Why did you send that message to your friend?
   • B.You seem worried about what might happen when you return home.
   • C.Tell me more about what you mean when you say you cannot keep doing this.
   • D.You need to promise me you will not hurt yourself.
   • E.I can stay with you while we talk about how to keep you safe.

   Rationale: Reflecting the client's worry, inviting elaboration, and offering presence are therapeutic approaches that encourage expression and support safety; the chart shows the client is distressed and has disclosed a possible self-harm concern. Asking why can sound judgmental and may inhibit discussion. A promise not to self-harm is not a reliable safety intervention and should not replace a direct risk assessment and safety planning.

3. 3.A client states, "My partner died last month, and I still reach for the phone to call them." Which response is most therapeutic?

   • A.It sounds as though you miss sharing everyday moments with your partner.
   • B.You should put away the phone until you feel better.
   • C.Many people have it worse, so try to be grateful for what you have.
   • D.At least your partner is no longer suffering.

   Rationale: Reflecting the client's loss acknowledges the grief and invites further expression without imposing an interpretation. Advising the client to put away the phone moves prematurely to problem solving. Saying the partner is better off or comparing the client's loss with others minimizes the experience and can close communication. Therapeutic responses convey acceptance and focus on the client's feelings.

4. 4.During a home visit, a 73-year-old client with mild hearing loss pauses after the nurse asks about medication use. Which action best supports effective communication?

   • A.Ask the client's family member to answer all questions.
   • B.Speak loudly from the doorway so the client can hear the question.
   • C.Face the client, reduce background noise, and speak clearly at a normal pace.
   • D.Repeat the question rapidly using different words.

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.

5. 5.In a prenatal clinic, a pregnant client says, "I am afraid I will be a terrible parent." Which response by the nurse is best?

   • A.You should attend a parenting class before the baby arrives.
   • B.Most people feel that way, so there is nothing to worry about.
   • C.Your family will teach you everything you need to know.
   • D.What concerns you most about becoming a parent?

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.