ATI Mental Health Practice A 2023

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Duloxetine, also known as Cymbalta, is a medication commonly used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain. It is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that helps alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions. Gabapentin is primarily used for neuropathic pain, Amitriptyline is commonly used as an antidepressant, and Tramadol is an opioid analgesic often used for pain relief but not typically indicated for major depressive disorder.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring the patient's weight daily is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with anorexia nervosa being treated in an inpatient facility. This approach helps healthcare providers track the patient's progress, assess nutritional status, and promptly identify any concerning changes or trends that may require intervention.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Individuals with borderline personality disorder often exhibit impulsive and self-destructive behaviors. These behaviors can include reckless driving, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicidal gestures. These actions are often attempts to cope with intense emotional pain or to avoid feelings of emptiness and abandonment. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize and address these symptoms when diagnosing and treating borderline personality disorder.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack is to encourage them to focus on deep breathing exercises. This intervention helps the patient manage the physiological symptoms of a panic attack by promoting relaxation and reducing hyperventilation, which are common during such episodes. Deep breathing exercises can help regulate breathing patterns and alleviate feelings of anxiety and panic.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because buspirone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis. It should be taken consistently to achieve optimal effectiveness in managing generalized anxiety disorder. Taking it as needed may lead to inadequate symptom control and reduced therapeutic benefits.