and Behavioral Health Nursing Q&A with
Rationale | Rasmussen University
1. Which phase of the nurse-client relationship involves establishing boundaries and a
rapport?
A. Orientation phase
B. Pre-orientation phase
C. Working phase
D. Termination phase
Answer: A
Rationale: The orientation phase is the initial meeting where the nurse and client establish
a contract and set the parameters of the relationship. During this time, the nurse works to
build trust and define the roles of both parties. It is essential for the nurse to clarify
expectations and address confidentiality early on.
2. A nurse is caring for a client who is being involuntarily committed. Which legal principle
allows the state to intervene for the safety of the individual?
A. Beneficence
B. Autonomy
C. Parens patriae
,D. Veracity
Answer: C
Rationale: Parens patriae is a legal doctrine that grants the state authority to protect
citizens who are unable to care for themselves. This power is often invoked in involuntary
commitment cases to ensure the safety of the client or the public. The nurse must
understand this concept to respect both the law and the client’s rights during the process.
3. A client tells the nurse, ‘I am a failure because I lost my job.’ The nurse responds, ‘You feel
like a failure because you are no longer employed?’ Which therapeutic technique is the nurse
using?
A. Focusing
B. Exploring
C. Restating
D. Giving recognition
Answer: C
Rationale: Restating involves repeating the main idea expressed by the client to let them
know the nurse is listening and understands. This technique provides the client with the
opportunity to clarify their thoughts if the nurse has misunderstood. It is a fundamental
tool in active listening and builds a stronger therapeutic rapport.
, 4. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which of the following should the nurse
prioritize first for a newly admitted client?
A. Self-esteem needs
B. Safety and security
C. Physiological needs
D. Love and belonging
Answer: C
Rationale: Maslow’s hierarchy states that physiological needs like food, water, and sleep
must be met before higher-level needs can be addressed. In a mental health setting,
ensuring the client is physically stable is the first step in care. Without physical stability,
psychological interventions are less likely to be effective.
5. Which defense mechanism is a person using when they redirect their emotions from a
dangerous object to a safe one?
A. Projection
B. Displacement
C. Sublimation
D. Reaction formation
Answer: B