NUR 253 Final Exam V2 | Mental
Health Nursing Q&A with Rationale
| Galen College of Nursing
1. A client with bipolar disorder is prescribed Lithium Carbonate. Which of the following
serum lithium levels would the nurse recognize as being within the therapeutic range?
A. 0.2 to 0.6 mEq/L
B. 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L
C. 1.5 to 2.0 mEq/L
D. 2.5 to 3.0 mEq/L
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The therapeutic range for lithium is narrow, typically between 0.6
and 1.2 mEq/L for maintenance. Levels above 1.5 mEq/L are considered toxic and require
immediate intervention. Regular blood monitoring is essential to ensure safety and efficacy
during treatment.
2. A nurse is caring for a client experiencing a manic episode. Which nutritional intervention
is most appropriate?
A. Offer high-calorie finger foods that can be eaten while walking.
B. Provide a large, three-course meal in the dining room.
,C. Restrict fluids to prevent water intoxication.
D. Wait for the client to request food before serving.
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Clients in a manic state often have high energy and cannot sit still
long enough to finish a traditional meal. High-calorie finger foods allow the client to
maintain nutrition while remaining mobile. This approach helps prevent weight loss and
physical exhaustion during the manic phase.
3. Which therapeutic communication technique involves the nurse repeating the main idea of
what the client has said?
A. Offering Self
B. Exploring
C. Focusing
D. Restating
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Restating is a technique where the nurse repeats the client’s message
to validate understanding. It encourages the client to continue speaking and clarify their
thoughts if the nurse misunderstood. This technique provides a feedback loop that
strengthens the nurse-client relationship.
, 4. A client is admitted for alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following symptoms should the
nurse prioritize as a sign of Delirium Tremens (DTs)?
A. Mild tremors and anxiety
B. Hallucinations, hypertension, and tachycardia
C. Bradycardia and hypotension
D. Increased appetite and hypersomnia
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Delirium Tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal
characterized by autonomic hyperactivity. Symptoms include severe disorientation, vivid
hallucinations, and elevated vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure. DTs are a
medical emergency that can be fatal if not treated promptly with benzodiazepines and
supportive care.
5. A patient taking Phenelzine (Nardil) must avoid which of the following foods to prevent a
hypertensive crisis?
A. Fresh apples and oranges
B. Whole grain bread and milk
C. Baked chicken and white rice
D. Aged cheeses and smoked meats
Correct Answer: D
Health Nursing Q&A with Rationale
| Galen College of Nursing
1. A client with bipolar disorder is prescribed Lithium Carbonate. Which of the following
serum lithium levels would the nurse recognize as being within the therapeutic range?
A. 0.2 to 0.6 mEq/L
B. 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L
C. 1.5 to 2.0 mEq/L
D. 2.5 to 3.0 mEq/L
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The therapeutic range for lithium is narrow, typically between 0.6
and 1.2 mEq/L for maintenance. Levels above 1.5 mEq/L are considered toxic and require
immediate intervention. Regular blood monitoring is essential to ensure safety and efficacy
during treatment.
2. A nurse is caring for a client experiencing a manic episode. Which nutritional intervention
is most appropriate?
A. Offer high-calorie finger foods that can be eaten while walking.
B. Provide a large, three-course meal in the dining room.
,C. Restrict fluids to prevent water intoxication.
D. Wait for the client to request food before serving.
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Clients in a manic state often have high energy and cannot sit still
long enough to finish a traditional meal. High-calorie finger foods allow the client to
maintain nutrition while remaining mobile. This approach helps prevent weight loss and
physical exhaustion during the manic phase.
3. Which therapeutic communication technique involves the nurse repeating the main idea of
what the client has said?
A. Offering Self
B. Exploring
C. Focusing
D. Restating
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Restating is a technique where the nurse repeats the client’s message
to validate understanding. It encourages the client to continue speaking and clarify their
thoughts if the nurse misunderstood. This technique provides a feedback loop that
strengthens the nurse-client relationship.
, 4. A client is admitted for alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following symptoms should the
nurse prioritize as a sign of Delirium Tremens (DTs)?
A. Mild tremors and anxiety
B. Hallucinations, hypertension, and tachycardia
C. Bradycardia and hypotension
D. Increased appetite and hypersomnia
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Delirium Tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal
characterized by autonomic hyperactivity. Symptoms include severe disorientation, vivid
hallucinations, and elevated vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure. DTs are a
medical emergency that can be fatal if not treated promptly with benzodiazepines and
supportive care.
5. A patient taking Phenelzine (Nardil) must avoid which of the following foods to prevent a
hypertensive crisis?
A. Fresh apples and oranges
B. Whole grain bread and milk
C. Baked chicken and white rice
D. Aged cheeses and smoked meats
Correct Answer: D
