NUR 256 Final Exam Mental
Health Psychiatric Nursing
Galen 2026/2027 100% Verified
Questions and Correct Answers
with Rationales | Guaranteed
Pass (GRADED A+)
Question 1
A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with major depressive
disorder. Which assessment finding requires immediate
intervention?
A. Difficulty concentrating
B. Loss of appetite
C. Feelings of worthlessness
D. Suicidal ideation with a specific plan
Answer: D. Suicidal ideation with a specific plan
Rationale: A client expressing suicidal thoughts with a specific
plan is at the highest risk for self-harm and requires immediate
safety interventions and continuous monitoring.
,Question 2
A client with generalized anxiety disorder reports excessive
worry and restlessness. Which nursing intervention is most
appropriate?
A. Encourage decision-making during periods of high anxiety
B. Use simple and clear communication
C. Challenge the client's fears immediately
D. Avoid discussing anxiety-provoking topics
Answer: B. Use simple and clear communication
Rationale: Anxiety can impair concentration and
comprehension. Clear, concise communication helps the client
process information more effectively.
Question 3
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia states, "The television is
sending me secret messages." The nurse identifies this statement
as:
A. Hallucination
B. Delusion of reference
C. Thought blocking
D. Echolalia
Answer: B. Delusion of reference
,Rationale: A delusion of reference occurs when a client believes
neutral events or communications are directed specifically at
them.
Question 4
Which therapeutic communication technique should the nurse
use when a client says, "Nobody cares about me"?
A. "Why do you feel that way?"
B. "That's not true."
C. "Tell me more about those feelings."
D. "You should focus on positive things."
Answer: C. Tell me more about those feelings.
Rationale: This response encourages the client to explore
feelings further and demonstrates active listening without
judgment.
Question 5
A client experiencing a panic attack arrives at the emergency
department. What is the nurse's priority action?
A. Teach relaxation exercises
B. Administer antidepressants
C. Stay with the client and provide reassurance
D. Encourage group interaction
, Answer: C. Stay with the client and provide reassurance
Rationale: During a panic attack, the nurse should remain with
the client, provide a calm presence, and ensure safety until
anxiety decreases.
Question 6
Which medication is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder
as a mood stabilizer?
A. Fluoxetine
B. Lithium
C. Alprazolam
D. Haloperidol
Answer: B. Lithium
Rationale: Lithium is a first-line mood stabilizer used in the
treatment and prevention of manic and depressive episodes in
bipolar disorder.
Question 7
A nurse is teaching a client taking lithium. Which statement
indicates understanding?
A. "I will decrease my fluid intake."
B. "I should maintain consistent sodium intake."
Health Psychiatric Nursing
Galen 2026/2027 100% Verified
Questions and Correct Answers
with Rationales | Guaranteed
Pass (GRADED A+)
Question 1
A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with major depressive
disorder. Which assessment finding requires immediate
intervention?
A. Difficulty concentrating
B. Loss of appetite
C. Feelings of worthlessness
D. Suicidal ideation with a specific plan
Answer: D. Suicidal ideation with a specific plan
Rationale: A client expressing suicidal thoughts with a specific
plan is at the highest risk for self-harm and requires immediate
safety interventions and continuous monitoring.
,Question 2
A client with generalized anxiety disorder reports excessive
worry and restlessness. Which nursing intervention is most
appropriate?
A. Encourage decision-making during periods of high anxiety
B. Use simple and clear communication
C. Challenge the client's fears immediately
D. Avoid discussing anxiety-provoking topics
Answer: B. Use simple and clear communication
Rationale: Anxiety can impair concentration and
comprehension. Clear, concise communication helps the client
process information more effectively.
Question 3
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia states, "The television is
sending me secret messages." The nurse identifies this statement
as:
A. Hallucination
B. Delusion of reference
C. Thought blocking
D. Echolalia
Answer: B. Delusion of reference
,Rationale: A delusion of reference occurs when a client believes
neutral events or communications are directed specifically at
them.
Question 4
Which therapeutic communication technique should the nurse
use when a client says, "Nobody cares about me"?
A. "Why do you feel that way?"
B. "That's not true."
C. "Tell me more about those feelings."
D. "You should focus on positive things."
Answer: C. Tell me more about those feelings.
Rationale: This response encourages the client to explore
feelings further and demonstrates active listening without
judgment.
Question 5
A client experiencing a panic attack arrives at the emergency
department. What is the nurse's priority action?
A. Teach relaxation exercises
B. Administer antidepressants
C. Stay with the client and provide reassurance
D. Encourage group interaction
, Answer: C. Stay with the client and provide reassurance
Rationale: During a panic attack, the nurse should remain with
the client, provide a calm presence, and ensure safety until
anxiety decreases.
Question 6
Which medication is commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder
as a mood stabilizer?
A. Fluoxetine
B. Lithium
C. Alprazolam
D. Haloperidol
Answer: B. Lithium
Rationale: Lithium is a first-line mood stabilizer used in the
treatment and prevention of manic and depressive episodes in
bipolar disorder.
Question 7
A nurse is teaching a client taking lithium. Which statement
indicates understanding?
A. "I will decrease my fluid intake."
B. "I should maintain consistent sodium intake."
