BSN Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing

Question 1

A patient with schizophrenia tells the nurse that the television is sending them personal messages. The nurse correctly identifies this as:

Accepted Answer

An idea of reference

Answer

A command hallucination

Answer

Thought broadcasting

Answer

Nihilistic delusion

Question 2

A patient is admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Which nursing intervention takes priority during the first 24 hours?

Accepted Answer

Assess for suicidal ideation and means

Answer

Encourage participation in group therapy

Answer

Establish a regular sleep schedule

Answer

Provide written educational material about depression

Question 3

A nurse is using therapeutic communication with a patient who says, 'I don't know what to do about my marriage.' Which response best demonstrates the technique of reflection?

Accepted Answer

'It sounds like you're feeling confused about your marriage.'

Answer

'Have you thought about seeing a marriage counselor?'

Answer

'Tell me what the specific problems in your marriage are.'

Answer

'Many couples go through difficult times; you're not alone.'

Question 4

A patient with bipolar disorder is in a manic episode and is pacing the hallway, talking rapidly, and refusing to eat. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

Accepted Answer

Provide high-calorie finger foods the patient can eat while moving

Answer

Insist the patient sit down in the dining room for a full meal

Answer

Administer PRN antipsychotic medication to reduce activity

Answer

Place the patient in a quiet room and allow them to rest undisturbed

Question 5

A patient is taking haloperidol (Haldol) and develops sustained muscle spasms in the neck, facial grimacing, and tongue protrusion. The nurse recognizes this as:

Accepted Answer

Acute dystonia

Answer

Tardive dyskinesia

Answer

Akathisia

Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Question 6

When a nurse uses the technique of 'setting limits' with a manipulative patient, the primary purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Establish consistent, predictable boundaries to promote safe behavior

Answer

Punish the patient for manipulative actions

Answer

Isolate the patient from the therapeutic milieu

Answer

Demonstrate authority and control over the unit