ATI Mental Health Practice A

ATI Mental Health Practice A Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice A related questions and content

Which therapeutic approach is most effective for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

  • A. Psychoanalytic therapy
  • B. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • C. Humanistic therapy
  • D. Gestalt therapy
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective therapeutic approach for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). CBT helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It focuses on changing cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors, providing practical strategies to manage anxiety symptoms effectively. Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of CBT in treating GAD by helping patients develop coping mechanisms and skills to address their anxiety. Choice A, Psychoanalytic therapy, is not the most effective for GAD as it primarily focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences rather than providing immediate coping strategies. Choice C, Humanistic therapy, emphasizes personal growth and self-improvement, which may not directly target the specific symptoms of GAD. Choice D, Gestalt therapy, focuses on increasing self-awareness and personal responsibility, which might not address the cognitive distortions and behavioral patterns associated with GAD as directly as CBT does.

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What is the most effective initial intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

  • A. Encourage the patient to discuss their feelings.
  • B. Provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient.
  • C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
  • D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, the most effective initial intervention is to provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient. This approach can help the patient feel safe and supported, which may help reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack. Encouraging the patient to discuss their feelings may not be helpful during the acute phase of a panic attack as it can be overwhelming. Administering prescribed medication immediately is not typically the first-line intervention for panic attacks. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in the long term but may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic attack.

A patient with social anxiety disorder is learning cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. Which skill is most likely being taught?

  • A. Avoiding social situations that cause anxiety
  • B. Challenging and changing negative thoughts
  • C. Using deep breathing exercises during social interactions
  • D. Taking anti-anxiety medication before social events
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for social anxiety disorder, the focus is on challenging and changing negative thoughts that contribute to anxiety. This process involves identifying distorted thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced and realistic thoughts, helping individuals develop healthier perspectives on social situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding social situations, using deep breathing exercises, and taking medication are not the primary skills taught in CBT for social anxiety disorder. CBT aims to address the underlying thought patterns and behaviors that maintain anxiety, rather than avoidance or temporary relief.

A patient with social anxiety disorder is starting cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which statement by the nurse best explains the purpose of this therapy?

  • A. CBT will help you understand and change your thought patterns.
  • B. CBT will focus on exploring your childhood experiences.
  • C. CBT will teach you relaxation techniques to use in social situations.
  • D. CBT will help you avoid situations that cause anxiety.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy that aims to help patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. By understanding and altering these patterns, individuals can learn to manage and alleviate their symptoms effectively. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the purpose of CBT for social anxiety disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. B is incorrect because while childhood experiences may be explored, the primary focus of CBT is on thought patterns and behaviors in the present. C is incorrect because although relaxation techniques may be a component of CBT, the primary goal is not just to teach relaxation but to address underlying cognitive and behavioral patterns. D is incorrect because the goal of CBT is not avoidance but rather to confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations.

What is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?

  • A. Weight gain
  • B. Insomnia
  • C. Drowsiness
  • D. Increased appetite
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drowsiness. Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety, often cause drowsiness as a side effect due to their sedative properties. This can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor skills, making it important for individuals on these medications to exercise caution when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more commonly reported side effects.

A patient diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder has been undergoing therapy for several months. Which outcome indicates that the patient is progressing in therapy?

  • A. The patient has developed a strong therapeutic relationship with the therapist.
  • B. The patient's different personalities are beginning to merge.
  • C. The patient is able to recall traumatic events without dissociating.
  • D. The patient reports fewer gaps in memory.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In dissociative identity disorder, the merging of different personalities is a crucial indicator of progress in therapy. As the different identities merge, it signifies that the patient is integrating fragmented aspects of their self, leading to a more cohesive sense of identity and a reduction in dissociative symptoms. This process is a significant therapeutic milestone in the treatment of dissociative identity disorder as it promotes internal cohesion and decreases internal conflict. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while developing a strong therapeutic relationship, recalling traumatic events without dissociating, and reporting fewer gaps in memory are important aspects of therapy, the merging of different personalities is specifically indicative of substantial progress in treating dissociative identity disorder.

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