Mental Health Nursing Review

These flashcards review key concepts related to mental health nursing, focusing on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

What is the first step when assessing mental illness?

Rule out any medical issues before treating psychotropic symptoms.

What is psychosis?

A disconnection from reality characterized by hallucinations and delusions.

Define hallucination.

A false sensory perception with no basis in reality.

What are delusions?

False ideas or beliefs accepted by the individual as reality.

What should a nurse do when caring for a patient with delusions?

Focus on reality and avoid arguing or agreeing with the delusions.

What is the difference between empathy and sympathy?

Empathy involves understanding a patient's feelings through shared experiences, while sympathy is simply feeling compassion for them.

What is transference in a clinical setting?

When a patient projects their past feelings onto the nurse or healthcare provider.

What is countertransference?

When a nurse projects their own feelings onto the patient based on personal experiences.

Why is communication important with depressed patients?

To assess for suicidal ideations and build trust.

What is a key part of mental health assessment?

Using tools like the mental status exam, CAGE for alcohol use, and GAD-7 for anxiety.

What are signs of suicidality to assess for in patients?

Expressing hopelessness, making plans for ending their life, or sudden mood improvements.

What is the risk of starting an antidepressant in a patient with suicidal ideation?

The medications can provide energy to carry out a suicide plan.

What symptoms characterize bipolar disorder?

Extreme mood swings from manic highs to depressive lows.

What does lithium treatment require?

Regular monitoring of levels since it has a narrow therapeutic range.

What is neuroleptic malignant syndrome?

A life-threatening condition characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, and other serious symptoms associated with antipsychotic medications.

How can a nurse create a safe environment for a patient in psychosis?

By removing sharp objects, ensuring close supervision, and maintaining a calm atmosphere.