ATI-STYLE MENTAL HEALTH PRACTICE EXAM
Questions And Answers With Solutions
Questions — Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing (FULL A–D FORMAT)
🧩 1–10: Therapeutic Communication & Safety
1.
A client says, “I feel like giving up.” Best nurse response?
A. “You shouldn’t feel that way.”
B. “Why do you feel that way?”
C. “Tell me more about what you are feeling.”
D. “Everything will be fine.”
Answer: C
2.
Which statement shows therapeutic communication?
A. “You are wrong.”
B. “Let’s explore your feelings.”
C. “That is not true.”
D. “Stop thinking like that.”
Answer: B
3.
A suicidal client is admitted. Priority nursing action?
A. Room search and safety assessment
,B. Group therapy
C. Discharge planning
D. Relaxation techniques
Answer: A
4.
Which behavior requires immediate intervention?
A. Crying
B. Talking to self and laughing
C. Asking questions
D. Sleeping
Answer: B
5.
A nurse says, “I understand how you feel.” This is:
A. Therapeutic
B. Non-therapeutic
C. Judgmental
D. Directive
Answer: B
6.
Best response to hallucinations:
A. “Stop that behavior.”
B. “What are you hearing?”
C. “That is not real.”
D. Ignore client
Answer: B
7.
A client is pacing and agitated. Priority action?
A. Leave alone
B. Ensure safety
C. Argue
D. Give food
Answer: B
8.
, Which is a priority in psychiatric emergency?
A. Mood
B. Safety
C. Insight
D. Memory
Answer: B
9.
A client threatens self-harm. First response?
A. Document
B. Assess risk
C. Ignore
D. Give medication
Answer: B
10.
Best approach for confused elderly client?
A. Complex explanations
B. Simple clear statements
C. Loud instructions
D. Ignore confusion
Answer: B
🧩 11–20: Mood Disorders & Depression
11.
Most common symptom of depression?
A. Euphoria
B. Anhedonia
C. Hyperactivity
D. Grandiosity
Answer: B
12.
Priority for suicidal client with plan?
A. Group therapy