Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What assessment is crucial when identifying the psychological state of a patient who has undergone surgery?

1. Pain level assessment

2. Family history of mental illness

3. Current medications

4. Past psychiatric history

The correct answer is: Past psychiatric history

Identifying the psychological state of a patient who has undergone surgery involves understanding their past experiences and any pre-existing conditions that may affect their mental health. Assessing past psychiatric history is crucial as it provides insight into the patient's previous mental health challenges, diagnoses, treatments, and responses to those treatments. This information can help healthcare providers determine if the patient is at increased risk for anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues following their surgical experience. Understanding past psychiatric history can inform intervention strategies and guide the healthcare team's approach to post-operative care. It can also assist in recognizing any signs of distress that may not be easily attributed solely to physical recovery. By knowing a patient's mental health background, healthcare professionals can be more proactive in offering support and resources that may be beneficial during the healing process. While pain level assessment, family history of mental illness, and current medications are important aspects of a comprehensive assessment, they do not provide the specific context of the patient's psychological resilience or vulnerabilities as effectively as understanding their past psychiatric history does.