and Behavioral Health Nursing Q&A with
Rationale | Rasmussen University
1. A patient is experiencing a severe panic attack. Which nursing intervention is the most
appropriate first action?
A. Encourage the patient to express their feelings in detail
B. Teach the patient new relaxation techniques
C. Stay with the patient and use short, simple sentences
D. Administer a high dose of an antidepressant immediately
Answer: C
Rationale: During a severe panic attack, the patient is unable to process complex
information due to heightened anxiety levels. Staying with the patient provides a sense of
safety and security during the crisis. Using short, simple sentences ensures that the patient
can understand instructions without becoming more overwhelmed.
2. Which clinical manifestation is a hallmark sign of Anorexia Nervosa?
A. Binge eating followed by purging
B. Normal body weight with dental erosion
C. Intense fear of gaining weight and distorted body image
D. Excessive consumption of high-calorie foods
,Answer: C
Rationale: Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by a persistent restriction of energy intake
leading to significantly low body weight. Patients typically exhibit an intense fear of gaining
weight or becoming fat, even if they are underweight. The distortion of body image often
leads them to perceive themselves as overweight despite clinical evidence to the contrary.
3. A nurse is caring for a client with Borderline Personality Disorder. Which behavior is most
characteristic of this condition?
A. Unstable relationships and impulsivity
B. Social withdrawal and lack of interest in others
C. Strict adherence to rules and perfectionism
D. Grandiosity and a lack of empathy
Answer: A
Rationale: Borderline Personality Disorder is defined by a pattern of instability in
interpersonal relationships and self-image. Clients often experience intense episodes of
anger, depression, and anxiety that can last from a few hours to a few days. Impulsivity in
areas such as spending, substance abuse, or reckless driving is also a common clinical
feature.
4. Which medication is considered the first-line treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder
(GAD)?
A. Mood stabilizers like Lithium
, B. First-generation antipsychotics
C. Barbiturates
D. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Answer: D
Rationale: SSRIs are generally considered the first-line pharmacological treatment for
long-term management of GAD. They have a more favorable side-effect profile compared to
older antidepressants like tricyclics. It is important to educate the patient that these
medications may take several weeks to reach full therapeutic effectiveness.
5. What is the primary goal of the ‘induction phase’ in treating Opioid Use Disorder with
Buprenorphine?
A. To cause a rapid detox within 24 hours
B. To ensure the patient experiences euphoria to prevent relapse
C. To find the lowest dose that prevents withdrawal symptoms
D. To transition the patient to injectable heroin
Answer: C
Rationale: The induction phase involves initiating the patient on buprenorphine while
they are in the early stages of opioid withdrawal. The goal is to safely transition the patient
and find a dose that suppresses withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This process helps
stabilize the patient so they can engage in further psychological therapy.