Psychiatric Mental
Healthcare I Review
Exam
Q&A
2024
,1. A 25-year-old patient presents with symptoms of extreme anxiety and
paranoia. Which of the following assessments is crucial for determining
the immediate care needs?
A) Family history of mental illness
B) Current medication regimen
C) Substance abuse history
D) Recent traumatic events
**Answer: C**. Substance abuse can acutely exacerbate symptoms of
anxiety and paranoia, making it a critical factor in assessing the patient's
immediate care needs.
2. When evaluating a teenager with suspected bipolar disorder, which of
the following diagnostic tests would be least helpful?
A) Thyroid function tests
B) Sleep study
C) Psychological evaluation
D) Complete blood count (CBC)
**Answer: B**. While sleep disturbances are common in bipolar
disorder, a sleep study is not a primary diagnostic tool for this condition.
3. In managing depression in an elderly patient, what is an important
consideration when prescribing antidepressants?
A) The potential for increased fall risk
B) The cost of medication
C) The preference for natural remedies
D) The patient's employment status
**Answer: A**. Elderly patients are at an increased risk for falls, which
can be exacerbated by the side effects of antidepressants.
4. A patient with schizophrenia reports auditory hallucinations. Which
nursing intervention is most appropriate?
A) Encourage expression through art therapy
B) Prescribe antipsychotic medication
C) Initiate a conversation with the voices
D) Increase social interactions
**Answer: B**. Antipsychotic medication is essential in managing
auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia.
, 5. For a patient experiencing a panic attack, which immediate intervention
should be prioritized?
A) Deep breathing exercises
B) Long-term psychotherapy referral
C) Administration of anxiolytic medication
D) Dietary modifications
**Answer: A**. Deep breathing exercises can provide immediate relief
during a panic attack.
6. When assessing a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD), which factor is most important for developing an effective
management plan?
A) School performance
B) Dietary habits
C) Family dynamics
D) Social interactions
**Answer: A**. School performance can be significantly affected by
ADHD and is crucial in developing an effective management plan.
7. In a patient with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which symptom
would indicate a need for more intensive therapy?
A) Occasional nightmares
B) Avoidance of certain places
C) Frequent flashbacks disrupting daily life
D) Mild anxiety in crowded areas
**Answer: C**. Frequent flashbacks that disrupt daily life indicate a
need for more intensive therapy in PTSD management.
1. Which of the following best describes the first step in assessing a
patient's mental health care needs?
A. Obtaining a detailed family history
B. Conducting a physical examination
C. Administering a mental status exam
D. Reviewing the patient's medical history
Answer: D. Reviewing the patient's medical history
Rationale: Reviewing the patient's medical history is the first step in