Mental health nursing worksheet with answers

What is separation anxiety disorder in a child?

1. AFear of social situations in which other children may laugh at them
2. BA lack of interest in parents and other close carers, with no distress when they leave
3. CExcessive, developmentally inappropriate fear of being apart from attachment figures
4. DNormal crying when a baby meets a stranger for the first time

What does the principle of the "least restrictive alternative" mean in mental health care?

1. AAll patients must be admitted to a locked ward
2. BPatients may never be restricted in any way, even when there is a serious risk to themselves or others
3. CRestraint should be the first measure used
4. DCare should restrict the patient's freedom as little as possible while keeping them and others safe

Does asking a patient directly about suicidal thoughts increase their risk of suicide?

1. AYes; it puts the idea into their head
2. BYes; it should only be done by a psychiatrist after a full assessment
3. CIt is only safe in adolescents
4. DNo; asking directly is safe and helps to assess risk

When should blood be taken to measure a patient's lithium level?

1. AImmediately after the morning dose
2. BAbout 12 hours after the last dose
3. C1 hour after the last dose
4. DAt any time of day, since it makes no difference

A 19-year-old has just started an antidepressant. What should the nurse monitor especially closely in the first weeks?

1. AHair loss
2. BChanges in eye colour
3. CRapid weight gain
4. DNew or worsening suicidal thoughts or behaviour

A patient says, "I'm going to be a famous singer, and I'll buy this whole hospital." Which response best uses the technique of voicing doubt?

1. A"That sounds hard to believe."
2. B"Why do you want to buy the hospital?"
3. C"You know that isn't true at all."
4. D"That's wonderful. When will you start?"

A patient in a manic episode is interrupting other patients and becoming louder in the day room. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

1. ATurn up the music to distract the group
2. BEncourage a competitive group game to use up energy
3. CArgue with the patient about the behaviour in front of everyone until the patient agrees to stop
4. DCalmly guide the patient to a quieter area with less stimulation and set clear, simple limits

A patient with bulimia nervosa has a serum potassium of 2.8 mmol/L. What is the main concern?

1. AImproved muscle strength
2. BA risk of weight gain
3. CA risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias
4. DIncreased appetite