ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Suicidal thoughts are a serious adverse effect associated with SSRIs and require immediate attention. This symptom is critical as it can increase the risk of self-harm or suicide in individuals taking these medications. Increased appetite and weight gain are common side effects of SSRIs but do not require immediate attention. Blurred vision is not a typical adverse effect of SSRIs, making it an incorrect choice. Healthcare providers must promptly recognize and address suicidal thoughts to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A decrease in manic episodes is a key indicator of the effectiveness of medication therapy for bipolar disorder. Manic episodes are a hallmark of bipolar disorder, and a decrease in their frequency or intensity suggests that the medication is helping to stabilize the client's mood and manage their symptoms. While choices B, C, and D are important aspects of overall health and well-being, they are not specific indicators of the effectiveness of medication therapy for bipolar disorder. Choice B focuses on mood swings in general, which may include depressive episodes as well, while choice C addresses sleep patterns and choice D relates to weight stability, which can be influenced by various factors unrelated to bipolar disorder treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Encouraging the client to discuss the voices is the most appropriate nursing intervention when a client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. By discussing the voices, the client can feel heard, understood, and supported. It allows the client to express their experiences, which can help in processing and coping with the hallucinations. This intervention promotes therapeutic communication and builds a trusting nurse-client relationship, which is essential in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia. Choice B is incorrect because instructing the client to listen to music to drown out the voices does not address the underlying issue and may not be effective in managing auditory hallucinations. Choice C is incorrect because telling the client that the voices are not real can invalidate the client's experiences and feelings, leading to further distress. Choice D is incorrect as solely distracting the client from the voices does not help in addressing the hallucinations or supporting the client in dealing with their symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Taking over-the-counter medications without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended for clients on lithium therapy as there can be potential interactions between lithium and certain medications. It is crucial for clients on lithium to always consult their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their treatment. Choices A, B, and C are all correct statements that align with managing lithium therapy, emphasizing the importance of dietary restrictions and adequate hydration, as well as monitoring sodium intake to maintain the therapeutic effects of lithium.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Clients prescribed sertraline should avoid foods high in tyramine to prevent a hypertensive crisis. Sertraline, an antidepressant belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class, can interact with tyramine-rich foods, potentially causing a dangerous increase in blood pressure known as a hypertensive crisis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no specific dietary restriction related to sodium, calcium, or potassium intake when taking sertraline.