Mental health nursing worksheet with answers

A depressed patient moves and speaks very slowly and takes a long time to answer questions. What is this called?

1. APsychomotor agitation
2. BPsychomotor retardation
3. CAkathisia
4. DCatatonic excitement

What is the main mechanism of action of antipsychotic medicines?

1. AIncreasing the release of dopamine
2. BStimulating GABA receptors in the brain
3. CBlocking dopamine D₂ receptors
4. DBlocking the reuptake of serotonin only

What is malingering?

1. AProducing symptoms on purpose to take on the role of a sick person, without any external gain
2. BPhysical symptoms caused by stress that the person does not produce on purpose
3. CIntentionally faking or exaggerating symptoms for an external gain, such as money or avoiding prison
4. DExcessive worry about having a serious illness despite repeated normal results and reassurance from doctors

Which setting is best for an initial assessment interview with a new patient?

1. AA small office with the nurse sitting behind a high desk between herself and the door
2. BThe corridor, so that the interview can be done quickly
3. CA quiet, private room with chairs at the same level and easy access to the door
4. DThe busy day room, so that the patient feels part of the ward

How should the nurse position herself when talking to an agitated patient?

1. ABehind the patient and close to him, so that the patient does not feel threatened by eye contact
2. BBetween the patient and the wall, so the patient can leave easily
3. CDirectly face to face, as close as possible, to show confidence
4. DAt a safe distance, slightly to the side, with a clear exit available

Under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (England and Wales), a person lacks capacity for a decision if they cannot do which of the following?

1. ARemember the decision for more than a year afterwards
2. BAgree with the decision that the doctor and the rest of the healthcare team recommend for them
3. CRead and write in the language used by the staff
4. DUnderstand, retain and weigh the information, or communicate their decision

A patient in acute mania has slept for 2 hours in 3 nights, is losing weight and is pacing constantly. Which nursing concern is the priority?

1. ALack of knowledge about the illness
2. BRisk of physical exhaustion and injury
3. CLow self-esteem
4. DDisturbed relationships with her family

A patient with depression and a family history of bipolar disorder started an antidepressant 2 weeks ago. He now sleeps 3 hours a night, talks rapidly and is spending large amounts of money. What should the nurse suspect?

1. AThe expected improvement in mood from the antidepressant
2. BA switch into mania or hypomania triggered by the antidepressant
3. CNormal relief and extra energy now that his depression has finally lifted after the treatment
4. DSerotonin syndrome caused by a high dose