Mental health nursing worksheet with answers

A patient who was just diagnosed with cancer says, "The test results must be wrong; I feel fine." Which defence mechanism is this?

1. ADisplacement
2. BProjection
3. CSublimation
4. DDenial

A nurse suspects that a child is being abused but has no proof. What is the nurse's responsibility?

1. AInvestigate the family alone at home before reporting
2. BReport the concern according to child protection procedures
3. CWait until there is clear proof before telling anyone
4. DConfront the parents and ask them directly whether they hurt the child

In group therapy, a member says, "I thought I was the only one who felt this way." Which therapeutic factor described by Yalom is this?

1. AAltruism
2. BCatharsis
3. CInstillation of hope
4. DUniversality

How may depression present differently in adolescents than in adults?

1. AAlways with psychotic symptoms
2. BWith a high fever and a rash
3. CWith increased energy and less need for sleep
4. DWith irritability rather than obvious sadness

In the mental status examination, what is assessed under "insight"?

1. AWhether the patient can make safe everyday decisions about money, meals and self-care
2. BThe patient's orientation to time and place
3. CThe speed of the patient's speech
4. DWhether the patient understands that they have a mental health problem and needs help

Which finding in a patient with anorexia nervosa is most concerning?

1. ADry skin and brittle hair
2. BA resting heart rate of 38/min
3. CConstipation for the past few days
4. DFeeling cold in a warm room

A patient with OCD performs a long hand-washing ritual and misses breakfast. What is the best initial approach?

1. APoint out how pointless the ritual is and insist that the patient stops it at once before breakfast
2. BLock the bathroom
3. CStop the ritual by force
4. DAllow time for the ritual, plan the schedule around it and gradually limit it with the patient

After her house burned down, a woman developed delusions and disorganised speech. Ten days later the symptoms have gone completely and she is back to normal. Which diagnosis best fits?

1. ABrief psychotic disorder
2. BDelusional disorder
3. CSchizophreniform disorder
4. DSchizophrenia