Mental Health/Psych HESI Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

Mental Health/Psych HESI Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified Which defense mechanism involves unconsciously blocking out painful thoughts? A. Projection B. Repression C. Sublimation D. Rationalization Which medication class is first-line for generalized anxiety disorder? A. Antipsychotics B. SSRIs C. Stimulants D. Antihistamines What is the priority nursing action for a client expressing suicidal ideation? A. Distract the client with activities B. Ensure safety and initiate suicide precautions C. Encourage independence D. Provide relaxation techniques Which symptom is most common in schizophrenia? A. Elevated mood B. Auditory hallucinations C. Memory loss D. Obsessions Which nursing action best helps reduce a client’s auditory hallucinations? A. Ignore the hallucinations B. Encourage the client to engage in reality-based activities C. Agree with the hallucinations D. Limit communication Which mood stabilizer is most commonly used in bipolar disorder? A. Lithium B. Sertraline C. Haloperidol D. Diazepam Which finding requires immediate intervention in a client taking lithium? A. Weight gain B. Tremors C. Severe diarrhea and confusion D. Increased thirst Which statement indicates a positive coping skill in depression recovery? A. “I’ll just stay in bed all day.” B. “I joined a support group for others like me.” C. “Nothing will ever get better.” D. “I don’t need any help.” Which therapeutic communication technique is best for a client who is crying? A. Change the subject B. Sit quietly and offer presence C. Tell them not to cry D. Ignore them Which type of delusion involves believing someone is out to harm the client? A. Grandiose B. Somatic C. Persecutory D. Referential Which client behavior suggests mania in bipolar disorder? A. Isolating in room B. Sleeping excessively C. Talking rapidly with pressured speech D. Moving slowly What is the priority nursing intervention for a client having a panic attack? A. Explain the cause of the attack B. Stay with the client and provide reassurance C. Leave them alone to calm down D. Encourage deep exploration of feelings Which neurotransmitter is most associated with depression? A. Dopamine B. Serotonin C. Acetylcholine D. Histamine Which medication requires dietary restrictions with tyramine? A. SSRI B. Lithium C. MAOI D. Benzodiazepine Which nursing intervention helps prevent injury in a manic patient? A. Provide stimulating activities B. Allow unlimited movement C. Provide a low-stimulation environment D. Ignore hyperactive behavior Which symptom is classified as a negative symptom of sc