ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing

Question 1

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is experiencing command hallucinations. Which nursing intervention is the priority?

Accepted Answer

Assess whether the patient intends to act on the commands

Answer

Administer an antipsychotic medication immediately

Answer

Place the patient in a quiet room alone

Answer

Document the hallucinations without intervening

Question 2

Which medication class is considered first-line pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults?

Accepted Answer

SSRIs/SNRIs

Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Tricyclic antidepressants

Answer

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Question 3

A nurse is using motivational interviewing with a patient who abuses alcohol. Which statement best reflects the 'rolling with resistance' technique?

Accepted Answer

'It sounds like you're not ready to make changes yet, and that's okay.'

Answer

'You must stop drinking or your liver will fail.'

Answer

'Tell me about the times alcohol has caused problems for you.'

Answer

'Here is a list of AA meetings in your area.'

Question 4

Which of the following is the hallmark symptom that distinguishes bipolar I disorder from bipolar II disorder?

Accepted Answer

At least one full manic episode

Answer

Persistent depressive episodes

Answer

Hypomanic episodes only

Answer

Rapid cycling between moods

Question 5

A patient taking lithium reports nausea, vomiting, coarse tremor, and confusion. What is the nurse's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Hold the lithium and notify the provider immediately

Answer

Give the next lithium dose with food

Answer

Reassure the patient that these are expected side effects

Answer

Administer an antiemetic and monitor closely

Question 6

Which therapeutic communication technique is most appropriate when a patient states, 'I feel like nobody cares about me'?

Accepted Answer

'It sounds like you're feeling very alone right now.'

Answer

'Of course people care about you.'

Answer

'Why do you feel that way?'

Answer

'You should call your family more often.'