PMHNP ANCC Practice Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

PMHNP ANCC Practice Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the most appropriate initial intervention for a patient presenting with new-onset auditory hallucinations? Complete a comprehensive psychiatric and medical evaluation What is the safest antidepressant to prescribe to an elderly patient with multiple comorbidities? Sertraline What is the primary goal of the mental status examination? To assess current cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning What is the PMHNP’s role in managing a patient who expresses intent to harm someone specific? Initiate duty to warn and notify appropriate authorities What is the defining characteristic of schizoaffective disorder? 2 Mood episodes occur with and without psychotic symptoms What is a red flag for bipolar disorder when assessing a patient with depression? History of periods of increased energy and decreased need for sleep What is the safest medication for treating insomnia in a patient with a history of substance use disorder? Trazodone What is the most reliable method for assessing treatment response in depression? Use of standardized rating scales such as the PHQ-9 What is the hallmark symptom of depersonalization/derealization disorder? Feeling detached from oneself or surroundings What is the appropriate follow-up interval after initiating an SSRI? Within 2 weeks to assess for side effects and adherence 3 What is the therapeutic purpose of motivational interviewing? To resolve ambivalence and support behavioral change What is the target symptom cluster for stimulant medications in ADHD? Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity What diagnosis should be considered when a person frequently visits doctors for unexplained physical symptoms? Somatic symptom disorder What is the recommended time frame for tapering benzodiazepines to prevent withdrawal? Slow taper over weeks to months depending on dose and duration What is a serious adverse effect of carbamazepine that must be monitored? Agranulocytosis What assessment should be done before prescribing an SSRI to a patient with bipolar disorder? Screen for history of mania or hypomania 4 What is a key strategy for improving medication adherence in adolescents? Involving the patient in shared decision-making What is the most appropriate response to a patient who reports medication side effects? Assess severity and explore alternative treatment