NU 160 Exam 1 V3 | NU 160 Mental Health
Concepts | NCLEX (NGN) Q&A with
Rationale (NU160 Exam 1)
1. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a high level of anxiety. The client states, ‘I
just know something terrible is going to happen today.’ Which therapeutic response should
the nurse provide?
A. ‘It sounds like you are feeling very uneasy right now.’
B. ‘Why do you feel like something bad will happen?’
C. ‘Don’t worry, you are in a safe place with doctors.’
D. ‘Most of the time, our fears do not come true.’
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: This response uses the technique of reflecting or restating the client’s
feelings, which validates their experience. Asking ‘why’ can be perceived as accusatory and
may make the client defensive. Giving false reassurance or dismissing the client’s feelings is
non-therapeutic and blocks further communication.
2. A client is admitted involuntarily to the psychiatric unit. Which right does the client still
maintain despite the involuntary status?
A. The right to leave the hospital at any time.
B. The right to refuse psychotropic medications.
,C. The right to have all visitors at any hour.
D. The right to carry personal weapons for safety.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Involuntary admission does not automatically mean the client loses the right
to refuse treatment, including medication, unless a court has ruled otherwise or there is an
emergency. The client is legally detained for safety, so they cannot leave at will. However,
they retain the same civil rights as any other citizen, including the right to informed
consent and privacy.
3. During a mental status examination (MSE), the nurse asks the client to explain the meaning
of ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk.’ What is the nurse assessing?
A. Memory and recall
B. Orientation to reality
C. Abstract reasoning
D. Affect and mood
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Interpreting proverbs is a common way to assess abstract reasoning versus
concrete thinking. A client with concrete thinking would focus on the literal milk and the
act of crying. This assessment helps the nurse understand the client’s cognitive processing
and potential neurological or psychiatric impairments.
, 4. A nurse is using Peplau’s theory of interpersonal relations. During which phase does the
nurse clarify expectations and establish a rapport?
A. Termination phase
B. Working phase
C. Exploitation phase
D. Orientation phase
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The orientation phase is the initial meeting where the nurse and client define
the purpose and parameters of their relationship. During this phase, trust is built and the
‘contract’ for working together is established. It is essential for setting the tone for the
subsequent stages of the therapeutic process.
5. A client who has a history of aggressive behavior is becoming increasingly agitated in the
dayroom. Which action should the nurse take first?
A. Place the client in physical restraints immediately.
B. Administer a PRN sedative medication.
C. Move the client to a quiet area with less stimulation.
D. Request that other clients leave the area.
Correct Answer: C
Concepts | NCLEX (NGN) Q&A with
Rationale (NU160 Exam 1)
1. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a high level of anxiety. The client states, ‘I
just know something terrible is going to happen today.’ Which therapeutic response should
the nurse provide?
A. ‘It sounds like you are feeling very uneasy right now.’
B. ‘Why do you feel like something bad will happen?’
C. ‘Don’t worry, you are in a safe place with doctors.’
D. ‘Most of the time, our fears do not come true.’
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: This response uses the technique of reflecting or restating the client’s
feelings, which validates their experience. Asking ‘why’ can be perceived as accusatory and
may make the client defensive. Giving false reassurance or dismissing the client’s feelings is
non-therapeutic and blocks further communication.
2. A client is admitted involuntarily to the psychiatric unit. Which right does the client still
maintain despite the involuntary status?
A. The right to leave the hospital at any time.
B. The right to refuse psychotropic medications.
,C. The right to have all visitors at any hour.
D. The right to carry personal weapons for safety.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Involuntary admission does not automatically mean the client loses the right
to refuse treatment, including medication, unless a court has ruled otherwise or there is an
emergency. The client is legally detained for safety, so they cannot leave at will. However,
they retain the same civil rights as any other citizen, including the right to informed
consent and privacy.
3. During a mental status examination (MSE), the nurse asks the client to explain the meaning
of ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk.’ What is the nurse assessing?
A. Memory and recall
B. Orientation to reality
C. Abstract reasoning
D. Affect and mood
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Interpreting proverbs is a common way to assess abstract reasoning versus
concrete thinking. A client with concrete thinking would focus on the literal milk and the
act of crying. This assessment helps the nurse understand the client’s cognitive processing
and potential neurological or psychiatric impairments.
, 4. A nurse is using Peplau’s theory of interpersonal relations. During which phase does the
nurse clarify expectations and establish a rapport?
A. Termination phase
B. Working phase
C. Exploitation phase
D. Orientation phase
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The orientation phase is the initial meeting where the nurse and client define
the purpose and parameters of their relationship. During this phase, trust is built and the
‘contract’ for working together is established. It is essential for setting the tone for the
subsequent stages of the therapeutic process.
5. A client who has a history of aggressive behavior is becoming increasingly agitated in the
dayroom. Which action should the nurse take first?
A. Place the client in physical restraints immediately.
B. Administer a PRN sedative medication.
C. Move the client to a quiet area with less stimulation.
D. Request that other clients leave the area.
Correct Answer: C
