NCLEX PN Practice Test with NGN Related

Review NCLEX PN Practice Test with NGN related questions and content

The nurse in an inpatient mental health unit is caring for a 43-year-old client.
History
Admission:
The client comes to the inpatient psychiatric facility for an evaluation. The client is having distressing nightmares, flashbacks, and feelings of being "on edge" since a severe motor vehicle collision 6 months ago that resulted in the death of the client's sibling. The client blames self for the sibling's death and verbalizes feelings of guilt. The client reports an inability to sleep well and being quick to anger, both of which led to job loss and the client seeking help. The client reports a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, such as working out and interacting with friends. The client has started smoking cigarettes daily since the collision and typically consumes ≥4 alcoholic beverages per day. Mental status examination reveals an irritable, guarded, and easily distracted mood. The client's appearance is well- kept, and grooming and hygiene are appropriate. The client’s speech is hyperverbal yet coherent, and thought process is organized. The client admits to feelings of hopelessness after the death of the sibling. The client reports occasionally seeing "shadows" but no visual hallucinations. The client has no homicidal ideations or history of violence toward others.
Vital signs: P 78, RR 17, BP 132/78.

Which client finding requires immediate follow-up by the nurse?

  • A. Hopelessness
  • B. Hyperverbal speech
  • C. Insomnia
  • D. Irritability
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hopelessness is a critical finding indicating a risk for suicide or severe depression, requiring immediate assessment and intervention in a client with post-traumatic stress symptoms and recent life stressors.