PMHNP ANCC Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

PMHNP ANCC Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the priority when evaluating a patient presenting with auditory hallucinations? Assess for command hallucinations and risk of harm What is the therapeutic mechanism of SSRIs in treating depression? Increase serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft What is the best non-pharmacological treatment for insomnia in adults? Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder? Excessive, uncontrollable worry occurring most days What is the primary concern with abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines? Risk of seizures and withdrawal symptoms 2 What condition is characterized by mood reactivity, interpersonal rejection sensitivity, and hypersomnia? Atypical depression What is the expected response time for a patient starting methylphenidate for ADHD? Within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion What is the most likely cause of new-onset depression in a patient recently started on beta- blockers? Medication-induced depressive disorder What finding would indicate a poor prognosis in schizophrenia? Early age of onset and negative symptoms What is a key feature that distinguishes delirium from dementia? Acute onset and fluctuating level of consciousness Which brain region is most affected in post-traumatic stress disorder? 3 Amygdala What is the first step in managing a patient with suspected serotonin syndrome? Stop all serotonergic medications immediately What should be monitored regularly in a patient on risperidone? Prolactin levels What diagnosis is associated with alternating episodes of depression and mania? Bipolar I disorder What is the initial approach to a teenager presenting with social withdrawal and academic decline? Perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation Which condition involves preoccupation with a perceived flaw in appearance? Body dysmorphic disorder 4 Which medication requires slow titration due to risk of serious rash? Lamotrigine What is the best initial treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder? Cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure and response prevention What lab is required before starting valproic acid? Liver function tests What is the most appropriate action when a patient with major depressive disorder reports passive suicidal ideation? Further assess intent, plan, and protective factors What is a common side effect of methylphenidate in children? Decreased appetite What therapy is most effective for PTSD? Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy 5 What diagnosis involves intense fear of being negatively evaluated in social situations? Social anxiety disorder Which test is most helpful when monitoring lithium therapy? Serum lithium level What finding suggests neuroleptic malignant syndrome rather than serotonin syndrome? Lead-pipe muscle rigidity and elevated creatine kinase Which condition presents with multiple unexplained physical symptoms? Somatic symptom disorder What is the priority intervention for a patient exhibiting signs of catatonia? Administer a lorazepam challenge Which psychotropic medication has the highest risk for agranulocytosis? Clozapine 6 What is the first-line treatment for panic disorder? Cognitive behavioral therapy What is the best method to evaluate medication adherence in a patient with schizophrenia? Ask open-ended questions and assess refill history