Spring Semester February 2026 ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam
Review & Practice Pack | Psychiatric Nursing Disorders, Therapeutic
Communication Techniques, Psychopharmacology Essentials, Crisis
Intervention, Safety & Legal Considerations, NGN-Style Questions,
Rationales & ATI Testing Success Guide
, Question 1
Which of the following neurotransmitters is primarily associated with mood
regulation?
A) Acetylcholine
B) Norepinephrine
C) Serotonin
D) Glutamate
Correct Option: C) Serotonin
Rationale:
Serotonin is known to play a crucial role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Low
levels of serotonin are associated with mood disorders such as depression.
Norepinephrine is involved in the 'fight or flight' response, acetylcholine plays a major
role in attention and arousal, and glutamate is primarily associated with excitatory
neurotransmission.
Question 2
Which therapeutic approach focuses on changing unhelpful cognitive distortions?
A) Psychodynamic therapy
B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy
C) Humanistic therapy
D) Dialectical behavior therapy
Correct Option: B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to identify and change negative thought
patterns and behaviors. This approach helps individuals to develop more balanced and
constructive ways of thinking, which can lead to improvements in emotional regulation.
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unconscious processes; humanistic therapy
emphasizes personal growth; and dialectical behavior therapy combines CBT with
mindfulness practices.
Question 3
A patient with a history of bipolar disorder is exhibiting manic behavior. Which of
the following interventions should be prioritized?
A) Encourage participation in group therapy
B) Administer prescribed mood stabilizers
C) Allow the patient to express their thoughts and feelings freely
D) Provide a structured environment
Review & Practice Pack | Psychiatric Nursing Disorders, Therapeutic
Communication Techniques, Psychopharmacology Essentials, Crisis
Intervention, Safety & Legal Considerations, NGN-Style Questions,
Rationales & ATI Testing Success Guide
, Question 1
Which of the following neurotransmitters is primarily associated with mood
regulation?
A) Acetylcholine
B) Norepinephrine
C) Serotonin
D) Glutamate
Correct Option: C) Serotonin
Rationale:
Serotonin is known to play a crucial role in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Low
levels of serotonin are associated with mood disorders such as depression.
Norepinephrine is involved in the 'fight or flight' response, acetylcholine plays a major
role in attention and arousal, and glutamate is primarily associated with excitatory
neurotransmission.
Question 2
Which therapeutic approach focuses on changing unhelpful cognitive distortions?
A) Psychodynamic therapy
B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy
C) Humanistic therapy
D) Dialectical behavior therapy
Correct Option: B) Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to identify and change negative thought
patterns and behaviors. This approach helps individuals to develop more balanced and
constructive ways of thinking, which can lead to improvements in emotional regulation.
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on unconscious processes; humanistic therapy
emphasizes personal growth; and dialectical behavior therapy combines CBT with
mindfulness practices.
Question 3
A patient with a history of bipolar disorder is exhibiting manic behavior. Which of
the following interventions should be prioritized?
A) Encourage participation in group therapy
B) Administer prescribed mood stabilizers
C) Allow the patient to express their thoughts and feelings freely
D) Provide a structured environment
