The nurse working at the VA is caring for a client seeking treatment for PTSD following his tour of duty in a combat zone. The client reports to the assessment nurse daily substance abuse for the past 4 days because he just can’t stand feeling depressed all the time. Which of these assessments is the nurse’s highest priority?

A client diagnosed with psychosis asks the nurse to make the voices stop talking so he can go to sleep. Which is the most important nursing intervention?

A client diagnosed with Lewy body dementia has been prescribed an antipsychotic medication to manage a decline in mental capacities. Why would the nurse question this prescription?

The nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). . As part of the patient’s plan of care the nurse reviews the  patient’s daily schedule with him. The patient responds to the nurse by yelling at the nurse:  “Why don’t you shut up already? I can read it myself, you know!” Which response when made by the nurse is best for this patient?

A client diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder (NCD) is exhibiting behavioral problems every day. At change of shift, the client’s behavior escalates from pacing to screaming and flailing. Which action would the nurse implement first?

The nurse is caring for an angry, aggressive client on an inpatient mental health unit. When multiple least restrictive methods methods fail the physician orders restraints at 3 a.m to keep the client and others safe. Per Joint Commission standards, at what time and by whom does the nurse expect an in-person client evaluation?

An experienced psychiatric-mental health registered nurse has taken a new position leading groups in a day treatment program. Which group is this nurse most qualified to lead?

The nurse presents an inservice for staff about depression. Which statement made by participants indicates that further teaching is needed?

The nurse is precepting a new psychiatric-mental health nurse. The new nurse states, “This patient’s use of defense mechanisms should be eliminated.” Which is the correct response to the new nurse’s statement?

Which nursing response is the best example of the therapeutic communication technique of offering self?