Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

To promote adherence to medication, a psychiatric mental health nurse should:

1. Ignore patient concerns

2. Explore patients' attitudes towards taking medication

3. Encourage abrupt cessation of medication

4. Focus only on medication side effects

The correct answer is: Explore patients' attitudes towards taking medication

Exploring patients' attitudes towards taking medication is crucial in promoting adherence. When healthcare providers take the time to understand a patient's feelings, beliefs, and experiences related to their medication, it fosters a trusting therapeutic relationship. This dialogue allows nurses to address any misconceptions or fears the patient might have about their treatment, which can significantly improve their willingness to adhere to prescribed regimens. In many cases, patients may have valid concerns about the effectiveness or side effects of their medication, or they may have had negative past experiences that affect their current perceptions. By actively engaging patients in conversations about these topics, nurses can provide personalized education, reassurances, and encouragement tailored to their specific concerns. This approach empowers patients, making them feel valued and involved in their care, which is key to enhancing adherence. In contrast, ignoring patient concerns can lead to a breakdown in communication and trust, and it may exacerbate any reluctance they have toward treatment. Encouraging abrupt cessation of medication can be harmful and counterproductive, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms or destabilization of a patient's mental health. Focusing only on medication side effects does not address the broader context of a patient's attitudes and experiences, which is essential for comprehensive care and adherence strategies.