CPNRE Mental Health Nursing Concepts 4

Question 1

A client with bipolar disorder is started on lithium. Which laboratory value must be monitored regularly to prevent toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Serum lithium level

Answer

Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index (0.6–1.2 mEq/L), so serum lithium levels must be monitored regularly to prevent toxicity.

Question 2

A nurse is caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal. Which medication class is most commonly used to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent seizures?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines are the first-line treatment for alcohol withdrawal because they reduce CNS excitability and prevent seizures.

Question 3

A client with schizophrenia reports that neighbours are 'sending radio signals' into their head. The nurse documents this as which type of symptom?

Accepted Answer

Delusion of reference

Answer

A delusion of reference is a false belief that external events or objects have special personal significance directed at oneself.

Question 4

Which communication technique is most therapeutic when a client says, 'I feel like no one cares about me'?

Accepted Answer

'It sounds like you're feeling alone and unsupported.'

Answer

Reflecting and paraphrasing the client's feelings validates their experience and encourages further expression without dismissing or challenging the statement.

Question 5

A nurse is assessing a client on an antipsychotic medication who develops muscle rigidity, hyperthermia, and altered consciousness. The nurse suspects which potentially fatal condition?

Accepted Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered consciousness, and autonomic instability.

CPNRE - Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination Practice Test

CPNRE - Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination Practice Test

CPNRE Mental Health Nursing Concepts 4