and Behavioral Health Nursing Exam Q&A
| Rasmussen University
1. A nurse is assessing an 85-year-old client for symptoms of depression. Which of the
following manifestations is most characteristic of depression in the geriatric population
compared to younger adults?
A. Physical complaints such as aches and pains
B. High levels of physical energy
C. Clear memory and cognitive focus
D. Increased social engagement
Answer: A
Rationale: Geriatric clients often present with somatic symptoms like pain or fatigue
rather than vocalizing feelings of sadness. This phenomenon is frequently termed ‘masked
depression.’ Understanding these age-specific presentations is vital for accurate diagnosis
and intervention in elderly populations.
2. A 10-year-old child is diagnosed with Conduct Disorder. The nurse should identify which
behavior as a hallmark of this condition?
A. Difficulty sustaining attention in class
B. Persistent pattern of violating the rights of others
,C. Brief episodes of shyness around peers
D. Occasional temper tantrums when losing a game
Answer: B
Rationale: Conduct Disorder involves a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in
which the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms are violated. This
includes aggression to people or animals and destruction of property. It is significantly
more severe than typical childhood misbehavior or Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
3. Which intervention represents primary prevention in a community mental health setting?
A. Leading a support group for individuals with chronic schizophrenia
B. Providing stress management education to high school students
C. Referring a client for medication management after a suicide attempt
D. Supervising a halfway house for recovering substance users
Answer: B
Rationale: Primary prevention focuses on preventing the initial onset of a mental health
disorder by addressing a healthy population. Stress management education aims to build
resilience before illness occurs. In contrast, tertiary prevention focuses on rehabilitation,
and secondary prevention focuses on early screening and treatment.
, 4. A nurse is working with a family whose child has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Which
teaching point is most important for the nurse to include?
A. Encourage a chaotic environment to help the child adapt
B. Establish a consistent, predictable daily routine
C. Avoid using visual aids during communication
D. Limit physical activity to prevent sensory overload
Answer: B
Rationale: Children with ASD thrive on structure and consistency, which helps reduce
anxiety and behavioral outbursts. Visual schedules and predictable transitions are core
components of managing ASD behaviors. Educating the family on maintaining this
structure is crucial for the child’s stability and development.
5. A geriatric client is experiencing delirium. Which characteristic distinguishes delirium from
dementia?
A. Slow, progressive onset of symptoms
B. Irreversible cognitive decline
C. Intact orientation to time and place
D. Sudden change in level of consciousness
Answer: D