Practice Question
A nurse on the mental health unit is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and comes to the nurse's station at 0300 demanding to see the provider. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
"You seem to be very upset about something. Tell me about it."
Rationale:
🟩 This response uses therapeutic communication by acknowledging the client’s emotions and inviting them to express their concerns, which helps de-escalate agitation and promotes emotional safety.
🟩 Clients with bipolar disorder, especially during manic or agitated phases, may exhibit increased demands and decreased impulse control. Responding with empathy rather than dismissal is critical.
🟩 By focusing on the underlying emotional need rather than the immediate demand, the nurse provides a calm, non-confrontational redirection that builds rapport and trust.
🟩 The response avoids confrontation, respects the client’s feelings, and supports client-centered care, which is essential in psychiatric nursing.
🟩 Other responses may seem dismissive or directive without addressing the emotional distress, potentially escalating the situation.
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This question is from RN ATI Advanced Concept Exam-240 which contains 65 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN Concept-Based Assessment Level Exam(s)
- Answer Choices: 4