NORCET: Multiple Choice Questions,(PSY51-100)

Psychiatric Nursing MCQs: Along with Answers


51. Which of the following is a potential complication of untreated or poorly managed mood disorders?

    (a) Decreased risk of substance abuse

    (b) Improved interpersonal relationships

    (c) Suicidal ideation and behavior

    (d) Enhanced physical health


52. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed a mood stabilizer. What is the main goal of this prescription?

    (a) To induce mania

    (b) To manage depressive symptoms

    (c) To stabilize mood and prevent manic or depressive episodes

    (d) To promote sleep and relaxation


53. A nurse is conducting a mental status assessment on a patient with depression. What term describes a pervasive feeling of sadness and hopelessness?

    (a) Hypomania

    (b) Euphoria

    (c) Anhedonia

    (d) Dysthymia


54. When caring for a patient with a mood disorder, what is the significance of regular follow-up appointments?

    (a) To ensure the patient receives unlimited access to medications

    (b) To monitor the patient's progress, adjust treatment, and provide support

    (c) To maintain strict control over the patient's daily activities

    (d) To minimize healthcare costs


55. A patient with bipolar disorder is in the depressive phase. What is a key nursing intervention to promote safety during this phase?

    (a) Encourage participation in risky behaviors

    (b) Limit communication with the patient to prevent agitation

    (c) Remove all sharp objects and potential sources of harm

    (d) Ignore the patient's depressive symptoms to avoid conflict


56. Which neurotransmitter is often associated with mood regulation and implicated in mood disorders such as depression?

    (a) Dopamine

    (b) Serotonin

    (c) Acetylcholine

    (d) GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)


57. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed medication to manage manic symptoms. What side effect should the nurse monitor for during treatment?

    (a) Slurred speech

    (b) Drowsiness and sedation

    (c) Rapid heart rate

    (d) Elevated blood pressure


58. When caring for patients with mood disorders, why is it essential for nurses to maintain professional boundaries?

    (a) To avoid providing emotional support

    (b) To prevent any form of communication with patients

    (c) To establish trust and ensure effective care

    (d) To discourage patients from seeking help


59. A patient with depression is undergoing cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). What is the primary focus of CBT?

    (a) Exploring the patient's past traumatic experiences

    (b) Providing unconditional positive regard to the patient

    (c) Challenging and modifying negative thought patterns

    d) Encouraging the patient to express emotions without restraint


60. Which of the following statements is true regarding the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the treatment of mood disorders?

    (a) ECT is primarily used as a first-line treatment for depression.

    (b) ECT is always administered without the patient's consent.

    (c) ECT may be considered when other treatments have been ineffective or when a rapid response is needed.

    (d) ECT is used exclusively for the treatment of anxiety disorders.



61. What is the primary goal of psychoeducation for individuals with mood disorders?

    (a) Providing medication education only

    (b) Encouraging patients to self-diagnose and self-medicate

    (c) Educating patients and their families about the disorder, treatment, and coping strategies

    (d) Promoting complete independence from healthcare professionals


62. A patient with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode and exhibits erratic behavior. What is a crucial nursing intervention?

    (a) Allowing the patient to make all decisions independently

    (b) Providing minimal supervision to encourage autonomy

    (c) Establishing clear boundaries and maintaining safety

    (d) Ignoring the patient's behavior to avoid confrontation


63. When assessing a patient with symptoms of mood disorder, what is the importance of evaluating for co-occurring substance abuse?

    (a) Substance abuse is never associated with mood disorders.

    (b) To determine if the patient is taking medications correctly

    (c) Co-occurring substance abuse can complicate treatment and worsen the mood disorder

    (d) To ensure the patient receives unlimited access to substances


64. A nurse is caring for a patient with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). What is a common treatment approach for SAD?

    (a) Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

    (b) Exposure to bright light therapy

    (c) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

    (d) Mindfulness meditation


65. A patient with depression has been prescribed an SSRI medication. What should the nurse educate the patient about regarding the timing of medication effects?

    (a) Immediate relief within hours of taking the first dose

    (b) Improvement in symptoms within a few days

    (c) Full therapeutic effects after 4-6 weeks of consistent use

    (d) No impact on mood and symptoms


66. Which type of psychotherapy focuses on helping patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors?

    (a) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

    (b) Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

    (c) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    (d) Psychodynamic therapy


67. A patient with borderline personality disorder (BPD) is experiencing intense emotions and self-harming behaviors. What should be the nurse's priority?

    (a) Ignore the patient's behavior to avoid reinforcement

    (b) Enforce strict limits and boundaries

    (c) Provide emotional support and safety

    (d) Encourage more self-harming behaviors as a coping mechanism


68. Which of the following is NOT a typical symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

    (a) Intrusive memories and flashbacks of the trauma

    (b) Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response

    (c) Decreased anxiety and emotional numbness

    (d) Avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event


69. A patient with a mood disorder is experiencing insomnia. What nursing intervention can promote better sleep patterns?

    (a) Encourage the patient to consume caffeine before bedtime

    (b) Recommend rigorous exercise right before sleep

    (c) Promote a relaxing bedtime routine and a consistent sleep schedule

    (d) Allow the patient to engage in stimulating activities before bedtime


70. Which mood disorder is characterized by a chronic pattern of mood disturbances lasting for at least two years but not meeting the criteria for major depression?

    (a) Bipolar Disorder

    (b) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

    (c) Cyclothymic Disorder

    (d) Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)


71. A nurse is caring for a patient with a mood disorder who is experiencing rapid mood swings, irritability, and impulsivity. What disorder might the patient be exhibiting?

    (a) Bipolar I Disorder

    (b) Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

    (c) Cyclothymic Disorder

    (d) Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)


72. A patient with depression is prescribed a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) medication. What is a potential side effect of TCAs that the nurse should monitor for?

    (a) Weight loss

    (b) Hypotension

    (c) Rapid heart rate

    (d) Euphoria


73. When assessing a patient for the risk of suicide, what is a protective factor that may reduce the likelihood of self-harm?

    (a) A history of previous suicide attempts

    (b) Access to lethal means

    (c) Strong social support and family connections

    (d) Presence of psychiatric comorbidities


74. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed a mood stabilizer. What should the nurse educate the patient about regarding the importance of medication compliance?

    (a) Medication can be taken sporadically without affecting mood stability.

    (b) Skipping doses will enhance the medication's effectiveness.

    (c) Consistent medication use is crucial to prevent manic and depressive episodes.

    (d) Medication is only necessary during manic phases.


75. A nurse is conducting a group therapy session for patients with mood disorders. What is a potential benefit of group therapy for these individuals?

    (a) Experiencing complete isolation from others

    (b) Avoiding discussions about their emotions

    (c) Gaining support and sharing experiences with peers

    (d) Reinforcing feelings of stigma and shame


76. A patient with depression mentions feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities. What nursing intervention can help the patient manage these feelings?

    (a) Discourage the patient from seeking help

    (b) Teach effective time management and problem-solving skills

    (c) Isolate the patient to reduce stressors

    (d) Ignore the patient's concerns


77. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of anxiety disorders?

    (a) Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks

    (b) Excessive worry and restlessness

    (c) Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and sweating

    (d) Apathy and lack of interest in daily activities


78. A patient with bipolar disorder is in a manic phase and exhibits reckless behavior. What should the nurse prioritize in this situation?

    (a) Providing unrestricted access to financial resources

    (b) Encouraging impulsive decisions

    (c) Setting clear boundaries and ensuring safety

    (d) Ignoring the patient's behavior


79. A patient with depression has been referred to a support group for individuals with mood disorders. What can the patient expect to gain from participating in such a group?

    (a) Increased feelings of isolation and hopelessness

    (b) Opportunities to share experiences, gain support, and learn coping strategies

    (c) A place to avoid discussing their emotions

    (d) An environment that reinforces stigma and shame


80. A nurse is caring for a patient with bipolar disorder who is prescribed lithium carbonate. What should the nurse monitor closely while the patient is on this medication?

    (a) Blood glucose levels

    (b) Serum creatinine levels

    (c) Serum lithium levels

    (d) Hemoglobin levels



81. A patient with depression is prescribed an MAOI (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor) medication. What dietary restrictions should the nurse educate the patient about when taking this medication?

    (a) Avoiding foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheese and certain processed meats

    (b) Avoiding all fruits and vegetables

    (c) Reducing carbohydrate intake

    (d) Consuming caffeine-rich beverages frequently


82. What is the primary purpose of a safety plan when working with individuals at risk of self-harm due to mood disorders?

    (a) To encourage risky behaviors as a coping mechanism

    (b) To isolate the patient from external stressors

    (c) To outline steps to prevent self-harm and identify sources of support

    (d) To enforce strict control over the patient's daily activities


83. A patient with bipolar disorder is experiencing a mixed episode characterized by both manic and depressive symptoms. What should be the nurse's priority in this situation?

    (a) Enforce strict isolation to prevent harm

    (b) Provide excessive emotional support to manage mood fluctuations

    (c) Monitor for potential signs of medication side effects

    (d) Ensure the patient's safety and stabilize mood


84. When working with patients with mood disorders, what is the importance of trauma-informed care for nurses?

    (a) Trauma-informed care is irrelevant when dealing with mood disorders.

    (b) It helps nurses understand how trauma can contribute to or exacerbate mood disorders.

    (c) Nurses should avoid discussing any past traumas with patients.

    (d) Trauma-informed care should replace all standard nursing practices.


85. A patient with depression has started taking an SSRI medication. What should the nurse monitor for regarding the risk of serotonin syndrome?

    (a) Increased appetite

    (b) Elevated blood pressure

    (c) Rapid heart rate

    (d) Decreased energy levels


86. Which mood disorder is characterized by recurring episodes of major depression and hypomania but does not include full-blown manic episodes?

    (a) Bipolar I Disorder

    (b) Bipolar II Disorder

    (c) Cyclothymic Disorder

    (d) Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)


87. A patient with depression is prescribed an SNRI (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) medication. What is a potential side effect of SNRIs that the nurse should monitor for?

    (a) Weight loss

    (b) Hypertension

    (c) Constipation

    (d) Decreased appetite


88. When assessing a patient with a mood disorder, why is it important to inquire about their support system and social network?

    (a) To establish a sense of isolation in the patient

    (b) To determine if the patient is taking medication correctly

    (c) To maintain strict control over the patient's social interactions

    (d) To identify potential sources of support and connection


89. A patient with depression has been referred for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). What is the primary purpose of ECT in the treatment of mood disorders?

    (a) To induce permanent memory loss

    (b) To provide rapid relief from severe depression

    (c) To stimulate the release of serotonin

    (d) To encourage manic symptoms in bipolar disorder


90. What is the primary role of a psychiatric nurse when caring for patients with mood disorders?

    (a) To minimize communication with patients to prevent distress

    (b) To enforce strict control over patients' daily routines and behaviors

    (c) To provide holistic care, support, education, and monitoring to promote recovery

    (d) To encourage patients to rely solely on medication without any other interventions



91. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed antipsychotic medication during a manic episode. What is the primary goal of using antipsychotics in this situation?

    (a) To induce mania

    (b) To promote sleep and relaxation

    (c) To manage manic symptoms and stabilize mood

    (d) To treat depressive symptoms


92. A nurse is conducting a mental status assessment on a patient with bipolar disorder. What term describes a period of elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity?

    (a) Anhedonia

    (b) Hypomania

    (c) Euphoria

    (d) Dysthymia


93. When providing care for individuals with mood disorders, why is it crucial for nurses to promote a stigma-free environment?

    (a) Stigmatizing attitudes can enhance treatment outcomes.

    (b) Stigma can discourage patients from seeking help and increase feelings of shame.

    (c) Stigma helps patients accept their conditions more easily.

    (d) Stigma encourages patients to hide their emotions and symptoms.


94. A patient with bipolar disorder is in a depressive phase and expresses suicidal thoughts. What is the nurse's immediate priority?

    (a) Encourage the patient to act on their suicidal thoughts

    (b) Contact the patient's family for support

    (c) Ensure the patient's safety, monitor closely, and seek immediate psychiatric intervention

    (d) Ignore the patient's statements to avoid reinforcing them


95. Which mood disorder is characterized by a low-grade, chronic, and persistent sadness that lasts for at least two years in adults?

    (a) Bipolar Disorder

    (b) Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

    (c) Cyclothymic Disorder

    (d) Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)


96. A patient with depression mentions a sudden loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. What term describes this symptom?

    (a) Anhedonia

    (b) Euphoria

    (c) Hypomania

    (d) Dysthymia


97. When assessing a patient with mood disorder symptoms, what is the significance of evaluating for comorbid medical conditions?

    (a) Comorbid medical conditions do not impact mood disorders.

    (b) To ensure the patient receives unlimited access to healthcare

    (c) Comorbid medical conditions can complicate treatment and influence mood symptoms.

    (d) To determine if the patient has a strong social support network


98. A patient with bipolar disorder is in the depressive phase and experiencing psychomotor retardation. What is an example of psychomotor retardation?

    (a) Rapid and disorganized movements

    (b) Restlessness and impulsivity

    (c) Slowed movements and speech

    (d) Euphoria and elevated mood


99. What is the primary goal of self-help or peer support groups for individuals with mood disorders?

    (a) To replace professional therapy entirely

    (b) To reinforce feelings of stigma and shame

    (c) To provide opportunities for individuals to share experiences and support one another

    (d) To isolate participants from external stressors


100. A nurse is conducting a mental status assessment on a patient with mood disorder symptoms. What term describes a severe form of depression marked by psychomotor agitation, delusions, and hallucinations?

     (a) Bipolar Disorder

     (b) Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

     (c) Bipolar I Disorder

     (d) Psychotic Depression


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