Mental Health Nursing Flashcards
7 cards from real LVN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Mental Health Nursing flashcards as text
A patient is pacing aggressively, clenching fists, and yelling. Which de-escalation technique should the LVN use FIRST?
Answer: Speak in a calm, low voice and give the patient personal space.
Verbal de-escalation with a calm tone and non-threatening stance is the first-line intervention before any physical or chemical measures.
During a suicide risk assessment, which question provides the MOST critical clinical information?
Answer: 'Do you have a specific plan for how you would harm yourself?'
The presence of a specific, lethal plan is the strongest predictor of imminent suicide attempt and requires immediate safety action.
Which action BEST demonstrates the LVN using active listening during a patient interaction?
Answer: Maintaining eye contact and reflecting back the patient's statements.
Active listening requires full attention, eye contact, and reflection to show the patient they are genuinely heard.
A patient in psychiatric crisis is hyperventilating and in acute panic. The LVN's FIRST intervention is?
Answer: Coach the patient to breathe slowly and deeply using a calm, steady voice.
Guided breathing coaching from a calm presence helps interrupt the hyperventilation-anxiety cycle safely and effectively.
What is the CORRECT sequence when applying physical restraints to an agitated psychiatric patient?
Answer: Obtain a physician's order, apply restraints, assess circulation and skin, then document.
Restraints require a physician's order first (except in immediate emergencies), followed by proper application, circulatory checks, and documentation.
The LVN is aware that a patient on the unit has a history of violent behavior and is becoming increasingly hostile. For personal safety, the LVN should position themselves?
Answer: Near the room exit, maintaining a clear escape route and safe distance
Positioning near the exit gives the LVN an escape route and prevents being cornered if the patient becomes physically aggressive.
Which patient profile represents the HIGHEST risk for a completed suicide?
Answer: A 65-year-old widowed man who is socially isolated and has a specific plan involving a firearm.
Older age, male sex, widowhood, social isolation, and a lethal, specific plan are the highest-risk factors for completed suicide.