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Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMH-BC)

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During an assessment, a patient says, "I cannot see a reason to keep going." Which response most directly explores possible suicidal thoughts?

Free sample questions and explanations

Prefer to read before taking the quiz? Expand a question below. This sample covers selected topics only; use the official outline to plan full preparation.

1. During an assessment, a patient says, "I cannot see a reason to keep going." Which response most directly explores possible suicidal thoughts?
  1. You have so much to be thankful for.
  2. Let us avoid upsetting subjects.
  3. Are you thinking about suicide?
  4. Everyone feels sad sometimes.

Answer: C

Ask directly and without judgement. NIMH notes that asking about suicide does not increase suicidal thoughts or behaviour; an affirmative response requires further assessment and appropriate support. Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/5-action-steps-to-help-someone-having-thoughts-of-suicide
2. After immediate safety needs have been addressed, which action supports a person who has experienced suicidal thoughts?
  1. Promise to keep all future risk concerns secret
  2. Encourage them to manage entirely alone
  3. Assume no follow-up is needed
  4. Help connect them with support and maintain follow-up contact

Answer: D

NIMH includes connection with trusted or professional support and continued contact among its recommended actions. Isolation and blanket promises of secrecy are inappropriate. Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/5-action-steps-to-help-someone-having-thoughts-of-suicide
3. A distressed patient begins describing feelings of hopelessness. Which response best demonstrates nonjudgemental listening?
  1. You should not feel that way.
  2. Tell me more about what has been happening.
  3. Other people have worse problems.
  4. There is no reason to discuss this.

Answer: B

Invite the patient to describe their experience and listen without judgement. Dismissing or comparing distress can shut down communication. Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/5-action-steps-to-help-someone-having-thoughts-of-suicide
4. A patient reports two weeks of severe sleep difficulty, loss of interest and inability to complete usual tasks. Which recommendation best matches NIMH guidance?
  1. Seek professional help for these persistent, distressing symptoms
  2. Wait indefinitely without discussing the symptoms
  3. Stop all prescribed medication without advice
  4. Use a wellness app as the only assessment

Answer: A

NIMH recommends seeking professional help for severe or distressing symptoms lasting two weeks or more. Self-care can support wellbeing but does not replace assessment when functioning is affected. Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
5. Which statement best describes the role of self-care in mental health?
  1. It guarantees prevention of mental illness
  2. It replaces any need for professional treatment
  3. It can support wellbeing and treatment or recovery
  4. It works only if every activity is completed perfectly

Answer: C

Self-care may support mental health, treatment and recovery. It is not a guarantee or a replacement for needed professional care; small, sustainable actions can be useful. Reference: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

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