Nursing Test Bank Mental Health

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Sample questions from Nursing Test Bank Mental Health

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

1. 1.A client newly admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit says, "I do not belong here. Everyone thinks I am dangerous." Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?

   • A.It sounds as though you feel judged and out of place.
   • B.You are safe here, and the staff will not let anyone hurt you.
   • C.Try not to worry; most people feel uncomfortable on their first day.
   • D.What happened that made you think everyone considers you dangerous?

   Rationale: Reflecting the client's feelings acknowledges the distress without confirming the belief that others are judging the client. Asking what happened may be useful later, but it can sound challenging before rapport is established. Promising that no one can be hurt and offering reassurance or minimizing the concern do not explore the client's experience and may reduce trust. A therapeutic response communicates acceptance and invites further sharing.

2. 2.During a home visit, a 76-year-old client with depression sits silently and looks down after being asked about recent losses. Which action is most appropriate?

   • A.Tell the client that talking about the loss will help the client feel better.
   • B.Change the subject to a more positive topic.
   • C.Continue asking questions so the client does not have to lead the conversation.
   • D.Sit quietly with the client and allow time for a response.

   Rationale: Using silence and a calm presence gives the client time to process difficult feelings and signals that the nurse is available. Rapid questioning can feel pressuring, and changing the subject may communicate discomfort with the client's grief. Telling the client what will help is prescriptive and does not assess what the client is ready to discuss. Therapeutic communication respects the client's pace.

3. 3.In an outpatient clinic, a 15-year-old says, "Sometimes I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up." Which responses by the nurse are appropriate? Select all that apply.

   • A.You have so much going for you; you should focus on the positive.
   • B.You do not really mean that; you are probably just upset.
   • C.I am glad you told me. I will stay with you while we get help.
   • D.What have you thought about doing, and do you have access to what you would use?
   • E.I will keep this completely secret so you can tell me anything.
   • F.When you say that, are you thinking about killing yourself?

   Rationale: Asking directly about suicide, including plan and access to means, supports an immediate safety assessment and does not increase suicidal thinking. Staying with the adolescent and acknowledging the disclosure are appropriate while arranging help. Focusing on positives and dismissing the statement can shut down disclosure, while promising absolute secrecy is inappropriate because safety concerns must be shared with responsible caregivers and the treatment team.

4. 4.A client experiencing a manic episode speaks rapidly, interrupts the group, and moves from topic to topic. Which communication approach is best?

   • A.Ask several open-ended questions to channel the client's energy.
   • B.Use brief, concrete statements and ask one question at a time.
   • C.Use humor to help the client recognize the behavior.
   • D.Encourage the client to explain every thought before redirecting.

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.

5. 5.A client with schizophrenia says, "The neighbors put a transmitter in my tooth to control my thoughts." Which response is most therapeutic?

   • A.That is impossible; transmitters cannot be placed in teeth.
   • B.You should ignore the thought and focus on your treatment.
   • C.I do not see a transmitter, but I understand that this feels frightening to you.
   • D.Why would your neighbors choose to control your thoughts?

   Answer and rationale are in the full material.