NUR253 Exam 4 V3 | NUR 253 Mental
Health Nursing Exam Q&A | Galen College
of Nursing
1. A nurse is assessing an adolescent for suspected Depression. Which finding is most
indicative of adolescent depression rather than typical teenage behavior?
A. Occasional irritability after a long day at school.
B. Spending several hours a day on social media and gaming.
C. Expressing a desire for more independence from parents.
D. A sudden, persistent drop in academic performance and social withdrawal.
Answer: D
Rationale: Adolescent depression often manifests as a significant change in previous
functioning, such as academic decline or withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities.
While irritability is common, a pervasive loss of interest and social isolation are hallmark
symptoms that differentiate it from normal hormonal shifts. The nurse must recognize
these patterns to facilitate early intervention and prevent potential self-harm behaviors.
2. When evaluating an elderly patient for Delirium, which clinical manifestation should the
nurse recognize as a key characteristic?
A. Gradual loss of memory over several years.
B. Acute onset of confusion that fluctuates in intensity.
,C. Stable level of consciousness throughout the day.
D. Intact attention span despite orientation deficits.
Answer: B
Rationale: Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of cognitive impairment and a
fluctuating level of consciousness. This is a medical emergency that often stems from
underlying issues like infection, polypharmacy, or dehydration. Unlike dementia, delirium
is potentially reversible if the primary cause is identified and treated promptly.
3. A nurse in a community mental health center is teaching a family about ADHD medications.
What should be included regarding methylphenidate administration?
A. Administer the medication right before bedtime to ensure rest.
B. Discontinue the medication immediately if the child becomes focused.
C. Expected weight gain is a common side effect of this drug.
D. Give the last dose of the day before 4:00 PM to prevent insomnia.
Answer: D
Rationale: Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that can interfere with
sleep if taken too late in the evening. It is commonly associated with appetite suppression
and weight loss rather than weight gain, requiring regular monitoring of growth. Educating
parents on timing ensures the child maintains a healthy sleep-wake cycle while managing
symptoms during school hours.
, 4. An 8-year-old child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is being admitted. Which nursing
intervention is most appropriate to reduce the child’s anxiety?
A. Establishing a consistent routine and using a predictable schedule.
B. Frequently changing the daily schedule to encourage flexibility.
C. Providing a highly stimulating environment with many new toys.
D. Ensuring the child interacts with a different nurse every shift.
Answer: A
Rationale: Children with ASD rely heavily on routine and predictability to feel secure in
their environment. Disruptions to their schedule can lead to significant distress and
behavioral outbursts. The nurse should use visual schedules and minimize sensory triggers
to provide a therapeutic and calming atmosphere.
5. In the context of community mental health, which activity represents ‘Primary
Prevention’?
A. Leading a support group for individuals with chronic schizophrenia.
B. Assisting a client in a halfway house with job placement skills.
C. Teaching stress management techniques to high school students.
D. Monitoring medication compliance for a patient recently discharged.
Answer: C
Health Nursing Exam Q&A | Galen College
of Nursing
1. A nurse is assessing an adolescent for suspected Depression. Which finding is most
indicative of adolescent depression rather than typical teenage behavior?
A. Occasional irritability after a long day at school.
B. Spending several hours a day on social media and gaming.
C. Expressing a desire for more independence from parents.
D. A sudden, persistent drop in academic performance and social withdrawal.
Answer: D
Rationale: Adolescent depression often manifests as a significant change in previous
functioning, such as academic decline or withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities.
While irritability is common, a pervasive loss of interest and social isolation are hallmark
symptoms that differentiate it from normal hormonal shifts. The nurse must recognize
these patterns to facilitate early intervention and prevent potential self-harm behaviors.
2. When evaluating an elderly patient for Delirium, which clinical manifestation should the
nurse recognize as a key characteristic?
A. Gradual loss of memory over several years.
B. Acute onset of confusion that fluctuates in intensity.
,C. Stable level of consciousness throughout the day.
D. Intact attention span despite orientation deficits.
Answer: B
Rationale: Delirium is characterized by a rapid onset of cognitive impairment and a
fluctuating level of consciousness. This is a medical emergency that often stems from
underlying issues like infection, polypharmacy, or dehydration. Unlike dementia, delirium
is potentially reversible if the primary cause is identified and treated promptly.
3. A nurse in a community mental health center is teaching a family about ADHD medications.
What should be included regarding methylphenidate administration?
A. Administer the medication right before bedtime to ensure rest.
B. Discontinue the medication immediately if the child becomes focused.
C. Expected weight gain is a common side effect of this drug.
D. Give the last dose of the day before 4:00 PM to prevent insomnia.
Answer: D
Rationale: Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that can interfere with
sleep if taken too late in the evening. It is commonly associated with appetite suppression
and weight loss rather than weight gain, requiring regular monitoring of growth. Educating
parents on timing ensures the child maintains a healthy sleep-wake cycle while managing
symptoms during school hours.
, 4. An 8-year-old child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is being admitted. Which nursing
intervention is most appropriate to reduce the child’s anxiety?
A. Establishing a consistent routine and using a predictable schedule.
B. Frequently changing the daily schedule to encourage flexibility.
C. Providing a highly stimulating environment with many new toys.
D. Ensuring the child interacts with a different nurse every shift.
Answer: A
Rationale: Children with ASD rely heavily on routine and predictability to feel secure in
their environment. Disruptions to their schedule can lead to significant distress and
behavioral outbursts. The nurse should use visual schedules and minimize sensory triggers
to provide a therapeutic and calming atmosphere.
5. In the context of community mental health, which activity represents ‘Primary
Prevention’?
A. Leading a support group for individuals with chronic schizophrenia.
B. Assisting a client in a halfway house with job placement skills.
C. Teaching stress management techniques to high school students.
D. Monitoring medication compliance for a patient recently discharged.
Answer: C
