ATI Mental Health Practice Exam

Free ATI Mental Health Sample Questions with Rationales

Try these 3 practice questions written by NursingPlex. The correct answer and rationale are shown under each one.

1. 1. A client says, "I don't see the point in living anymore." What is the nurse's best response?

   1. A. "Things will get better soon."
   2. B. "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" ✓
   3. C. "Let's talk about something else."
   4. D. "Why would you say that?"

   Rationale: Asking directly about suicidal thoughts is safe and needed to assess risk. False reassurance, changing the subject and "why" questions block communication.

2. 2. A client taking lithium has diarrhea, vomiting and a coarse tremor. What should the nurse suspect?

   1. A. Expected side effects
   2. B. Lithium toxicity ✓
   3. C. Serotonin syndrome
   4. D. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

   Rationale: GI upset with a coarse tremor suggests lithium toxicity. The nurse holds the dose and checks a lithium level; the usual therapeutic range is about 0.6–1.2 mEq/L.

3. 3. A client stopped drinking alcohol 2 days ago and is now confused, sweating and tremulous. Which medication class is usually given?

   1. A. Benzodiazepines ✓
   2. B. SSRIs
   3. C. Antipsychotics only
   4. D. Stimulants

   Rationale: Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam or chlordiazepoxide are first-line for alcohol withdrawal and help prevent seizures and delirium.