ATI Mental Health Practice B Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice B related questions and content

When assessing a client diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which finding should the nurse expect?

  • A. Hypervigilance
  • B. Insomnia
  • C. Flashbacks
  • D. Suicidal ideation
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Clients with PTSD commonly exhibit symptoms such as hypervigilance, insomnia, flashbacks, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability. Hypervigilance refers to an enhanced state of awareness and alertness, often seen in individuals with PTSD as they are constantly on guard for potential threats. Insomnia is a common sleep disturbance associated with PTSD, where individuals may have trouble falling or staying asleep. Flashbacks involve re-experiencing the traumatic event as if it is occurring in the present moment. Suicidal ideation, while a serious concern in mental health, is not a hallmark symptom specifically associated with PTSD. Therefore, the correct finding that the nurse should expect when assessing a client diagnosed with PTSD is hypervigilance.