NSRG 126 Final Exam V1 | NSRG 126
Mental Health Nursing | Actual Q&A with
Rationale (NSRG126 Final Exam) | Ivy
Tech
1. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following
activities should the nurse recommend?
A. A group exercise class in the gym
B. Walking around the unit with the nurse
C. A game of competitive basketball
D. Attending a detailed community meeting
Correct Answer: B
Walking with the nurse provides an outlet for physical energy while maintaining a low-
stimulation environment. Clients in a manic state are easily overstimulated and may
become aggressive in competitive or group settings. The nurse’s presence also ensures
safety and provides an opportunity for brief therapeutic interaction.
2. Which of the following are examples of non-therapeutic communication techniques that a
nurse should avoid?
A. Active listening
B. Giving advice
,C. Requesting an explanation (Asking ‘Why’ questions)
D. Defensiveness
E. Giving approval or disapproval
F. Summarizing the conversation
Correct Answer: B,C,D,E
Non-therapeutic techniques like giving advice or asking ‘why’ questions can block
communication and make the client feel judged or defensive. Giving approval or
disapproval imposes the nurse’s values on the client rather than encouraging autonomy.
Therapeutic communication should instead focus on open-ended questions and reflection
to foster a trusting relationship.
3. A client is being admitted involuntarily to a psychiatric unit. The nurse understands that
this type of admission is based on which of the following criteria?
A. The client is unwilling to take their prescribed psychiatric medications
B. The client’s family believes they need mental health treatment
C. The client is unable to manage their personal financial affairs
D. The client is a danger to themselves or others
Correct Answer: D
Involuntary admission is legally reserved for individuals who pose a significant risk of
harm to themselves or others or are unable to provide for their own basic needs. This
, process requires legal documentation and periodic review to protect the client’s civil rights.
Even when admitted involuntarily, clients generally retain the right to refuse medication
unless an emergency exists.
4. A nurse is assessing a client for serotonin syndrome after starting a new SSRI. Which of the
following findings should the nurse expect?
A. Hypothermia
B. Hallucinations
C. Diaphoresis
D. Hyperreflexia
E. Bradycardia
Correct Answer: B,C,D
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by mental
status changes, autonomic hyperactivity, and neuromuscular abnormalities. Symptoms
typically include hallucinations, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, and tachycardia rather than
bradycardia. Nurses must monitor for these signs especially when medications that
increase serotonin levels are combined or adjusted.
5. A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and is taking haloperidol. The nurse
observes the client has a stiff neck and their eyes are rolled upward. Which of the following
actions should the nurse take?
A. Notify the provider and prepare to administer a dose of lorazepam
Mental Health Nursing | Actual Q&A with
Rationale (NSRG126 Final Exam) | Ivy
Tech
1. A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following
activities should the nurse recommend?
A. A group exercise class in the gym
B. Walking around the unit with the nurse
C. A game of competitive basketball
D. Attending a detailed community meeting
Correct Answer: B
Walking with the nurse provides an outlet for physical energy while maintaining a low-
stimulation environment. Clients in a manic state are easily overstimulated and may
become aggressive in competitive or group settings. The nurse’s presence also ensures
safety and provides an opportunity for brief therapeutic interaction.
2. Which of the following are examples of non-therapeutic communication techniques that a
nurse should avoid?
A. Active listening
B. Giving advice
,C. Requesting an explanation (Asking ‘Why’ questions)
D. Defensiveness
E. Giving approval or disapproval
F. Summarizing the conversation
Correct Answer: B,C,D,E
Non-therapeutic techniques like giving advice or asking ‘why’ questions can block
communication and make the client feel judged or defensive. Giving approval or
disapproval imposes the nurse’s values on the client rather than encouraging autonomy.
Therapeutic communication should instead focus on open-ended questions and reflection
to foster a trusting relationship.
3. A client is being admitted involuntarily to a psychiatric unit. The nurse understands that
this type of admission is based on which of the following criteria?
A. The client is unwilling to take their prescribed psychiatric medications
B. The client’s family believes they need mental health treatment
C. The client is unable to manage their personal financial affairs
D. The client is a danger to themselves or others
Correct Answer: D
Involuntary admission is legally reserved for individuals who pose a significant risk of
harm to themselves or others or are unable to provide for their own basic needs. This
, process requires legal documentation and periodic review to protect the client’s civil rights.
Even when admitted involuntarily, clients generally retain the right to refuse medication
unless an emergency exists.
4. A nurse is assessing a client for serotonin syndrome after starting a new SSRI. Which of the
following findings should the nurse expect?
A. Hypothermia
B. Hallucinations
C. Diaphoresis
D. Hyperreflexia
E. Bradycardia
Correct Answer: B,C,D
Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by mental
status changes, autonomic hyperactivity, and neuromuscular abnormalities. Symptoms
typically include hallucinations, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, and tachycardia rather than
bradycardia. Nurses must monitor for these signs especially when medications that
increase serotonin levels are combined or adjusted.
5. A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and is taking haloperidol. The nurse
observes the client has a stiff neck and their eyes are rolled upward. Which of the following
actions should the nurse take?
A. Notify the provider and prepare to administer a dose of lorazepam
