HESI RN Mental Health Exam Prep

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HESI RN Mental Health Exam Prep Questions & Knowledge Review Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

A client with schizophrenia states, “The FBI has planted cameras in my room.” What is the nurse’s best response?

• “That’s not true, there are no cameras.”

✔✔B. “It sounds like you feel unsafe right now.”

• “Why do you think they would do that?”
• “Ignore those thoughts and they will go away.”

A client with bipolar disorder presents with pressured speech, pacing, and little need for sleep.What is the nurse’s priority action?

• Offer the client group activities.

✔✔B. Provide a quiet environment with minimal stimulation.

• Ask the client to explain their thoughts.
• Encourage lengthy discussions about feelings.
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A client recently started on haloperidol develops muscle stiffness, fever, and confusion. What condition should the nurse suspect?

• Serotonin syndrome

✔✔B. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

• Tardive dyskinesia
• Akathisia

A client reports taking fluoxetine for one week but feels no change. What is the best nurse response?

• “Stop the medication and try another.”

✔✔B. “It may take several weeks to notice improvement.”

• “Increase your dosage without consulting your provider.”
• “The medication is not working for you.”

A client experiencing alcohol withdrawal is at greatest risk for which complication?

• Depression
• Aggression

✔✔C. Seizures 2 / 4

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• Overhydration

A client with OCD repeatedly checks the door lock. What is the best nursing intervention?

• Remove the lock from the door.

✔✔B. Allow checking but set time limits.

• Ignore the ritual completely.
• Force the client to stop immediately.

A client states, “I want to kill myself tonight.” What is the nurse’s priority action?

• Notify the family.

✔✔B. Assess the client’s suicide plan and means.

• Encourage the client to rest.
• Suggest a relaxation activity.

A client with depression has not eaten for 2 days. What is the nurse’s priority action?

• Offer large family-style meals.

✔✔B. Provide small, frequent, high-calorie foods.

• Ask the client to wait until hungry. 3 / 4

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• Avoid addressing food until the client requests it.

A client on lithium reports diarrhea, vomiting, and unsteady gait. What should the nurse do first?

• Encourage oral fluids.

✔✔B. Hold the dose and notify the provider.

• Reassure the client these are normal effects.
• Continue giving the next dose as scheduled.

A client with schizophrenia is laughing and talking to themselves while sitting alone. What is the nurse’s best response?

• “You’re imagining things again.”

✔✔B. “Are you hearing voices right now?”

• “You should stop laughing like that.”
• “Don’t pay attention to those voices.”

A nurse teaching about MAOIs should advise clients to avoid which foods?

• Citrus fruits

✔✔B. Aged cheeses and processed meats

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