Actual Exam | Rasmussen University | Foundational Psychiatric Nursing Assessment
Overview
This 2025/2026 validated resource contains the complete NUR 2459 Mental Health Exam 1
from Rasmussen University with actual questions and verified answers, directly aligned with
current Rasmussen curriculum standards. Essential for nursing students preparing for
foundational psychiatric nursing assessment and demonstrating competency in mental
health principles and basic therapeutic interventions.
Key Features
✓ 55-Question Comprehensive Exam matching Rasmussen assessment format
✓ Mental Health Foundations with theoretical applications
✓ Basic Therapeutic Communication with relationship-building
✓ Updated 2025/2026 Rasmussen mental health curriculum standards
✓ Mental Status Assessment with documentation protocols
Content Domains
• Mental Health Principles & Theories (12 Questions)
• Therapeutic Communication Skills (11 Questions)
• Mental Status Examination (10 Questions)
• Stress & Coping Mechanisms (9 Questions)
• Nursing Process in Psychiatry (8 Questions)
• Legal & Ethical Foundations (5 Questions)
Answer Format
Verified correct answers in bold green with:
• Theoretical framework applications
• Communication technique rationales
• Assessment finding interpretations
• Ethical principle justifications
Critical Updates 2025/2026
NEW - Cultural competence standards
UPDATED - Confidentiality protocols
REVISED - Therapeutic relationship boundaries
MODIFIED - Mental health documentation requirements
MENTAL HEALTH PRINCIPLES & THEORIES (Questions 1–12)
1. The foundational theory emphasizing unconscious drives in mental health is?
a) Behaviorism
b) Psychodynamic theory (Freud)
c) Humanism
, d) Cognitivism
Rationale: Freud's theory focuses on unconscious conflicts and early experiences.
2. Which theorist developed the hierarchy of needs?
a) Freud
b) Maslow
c) Erikson
d) Piaget
Rationale: Maslow's hierarchy is fundamental to understanding human motivation.
3. The principle of least restrictive environment is based on?
a) Medical model
b) Patient autonomy and dignity
c) Cost containment
d) Staff convenience
Rationale: Ethical principle supporting patient rights and freedom.
4. Which neurotransmitter is most associated with depression?
a) Dopamine
b) Serotonin
c) Acetylcholine
d) GABA
Rationale: Serotonin dysregulation is strongly linked to mood disorders.
5. The stress-diathesis model suggests mental illness results from?
a) Only genetics
b) Genetic vulnerability + environmental stressors
c) Only environment
d) Poor coping only
Rationale: Interaction between predisposition and stress triggers illness.
6. Which approach is central to recovery-oriented care?
a) Professional expertise only
b) Patient-centered collaboration
c) Medication compliance only
d) No patient input
Rationale: Recovery model emphasizes patient partnership and hope.
7. Cultural competence in mental health requires?
a) Color-blind approach
b) Understanding patient's cultural beliefs about illness
c) Imposing professional views
d) Avoiding cultural discussion
Rationale: Culture influences symptom expression and treatment preferences.
8. Which statement reflects therapeutic use of self?
a) "I know exactly how you feel"
b) "Help me understand what this experience is like for you"
c) "You should think positively"
d) "Everything will be fine"
Rationale: Genuine interest without assumptions builds therapeutic alliance.
9. The normal grief response typically resolves within?
a) 1 week
b) 6 months to 1 year