NURSING 212 EXAM 1- PSYCHOSOCIAL COPING OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN CRISIS

Two nursing students, both single parents, have decided to move into a larger house. Part of their rationale includes providing support for studying and sharing responsibilities of parenting. This is an example of which of the following? 1. Cohabiting family 2. Blended family 3. Foster family 4. Intragenerational family

1 Rationale 1: Cohabiting (or communal) families consist of unrelated individuals or families that live under one roof. Reasons for cohabiting may be a need for companionship, a desire to achieve a sense of family, sharing expenses, and household management. Rationale 2: A blended family occurs when existing family units join together to form new families, also known as stepfamilies or reconstituted families. Rationale 3: Foster family situations occur when children can no longer live with their birth parents and require placement with a family that has agreed to include them temporarily. Rationale 4: Intragenerational families occur when more than two generations live together.

A nurse is conducting a family assessment, and asks the following question: How, as a family, do you deal with disappointments or stressful changes that occur and affect the members of your family? The nurse is trying to identify: 1. Family coping mechanisms. 2. Whether the family experiences stress. 3. Which family members are most stressed. 4. Family dynamics.

1 Rationale 1: Family coping mechanisms are behaviors that families use to deal with stress or changes imposed from either within or without. The coping mechanisms families and individuals develop reflect their individual resourcefulness. The assessment of coping mechanisms is a way to determine how families relate to stress. Rationale 2: The scenario correctly assumes that families will periodically experience stress. Rationale 3: The question is not focused on whom but rather how stress in handled by the family. Rationale 4: The question is not focused on the general function of the family but rather how stress in handled by the family.

A nurse has identified a coping problem in a family that recently lost their house and all of their belongings in a fire. The nurse next will assess the familys external support systems. These would include which of the following? Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. Grandparents. 2. The parents siblings. 3. Local social services agencies. 4. The familys religious leader. 5. The familys communication skills.

1,2,3,4

A nurse is conducting a family assessment as part of the process for services provided through the community. Of the following, which would provide the best information in identifying existing or potential health problems? 1. Ecomap 2. Genogram 3. Cultural assessment 4. Family communication patterns

2 Rationale 1: An ecomap provides a visualization of how the family unit interacts with the external communityfor example, schools, religious commitments, occupational duties, and recreational pursuits. Rationale 2: The health history is one of the most effective ways of identifying existing or potential health problems. A genogram will help the nurse to visualize how all family members are genetically related to each other and how patterns of chronic conditions are present within the family unit. Rationale 3: A cultural assessment will provide information about health beliefs and health practices of a particular family. Rationale 4: Family communication patterns determine the familys ability to function as a cooperative, growth-producing unit.

A nurse is working with a particular cultural group in which it is not uncommon for grandparents to live with their married children and to assist with child rearing and discipline issues. This is an example of which of the following? 1. Two-career family 2. Blended family 3. Intragenerational family 4. Traditional family

3 Rationale 1: A two-career family is one where both partners are employed. Rationale 2: A blended family occurs when existing family units join together to form new families. Rationale 3: In some cultures and as people live longer, more than two generations may live together in an intragenerational setting, as described. Rationale 4: A traditional family is viewed as an autonomous unit in which both parents reside in the home.

The nurse is performing a family risk assessment. Which of the following factors would indicate that this family is at risk of developing health problems? 1. The family is an elderly couple who are active in their retirement community. 2. The family is a teenage mother and child. The mother is enrolled in parenting classes at the high school. 3. The family belongs to the local synagogue and has family members still living in Germany. 4. The family depends on two incomes with a limit on their health insurance spending.

3 Rationale 1: The elderly couple is active and so is not at as high of risk simply because of age. Rationale 2: Just because the family is led by a teenage mother, even though maturity is one of the factors the nurse will assess in this situation does not necessarily indicate that a health risk exists. Rationale 3: Tay-Sachs is a neurodegenerative disease that occurs primarily in descendants of Eastern European Jews. Simply because of this familys race, they are at risk for developing this health problem. Rationale 4: Although poverty is a major problem that affects the family, the fact that there is health insurance is a positive sociologic factor.

A nurse is conducting a family assessment and is focusing, for the moment, on the family members communication patterns. Which of the following indicate that there are existing or potential problems with family communication? 1. All members are participating in the discussion equally, some quite vocally. 2. The verbal communication is congruent with the nonverbal messages. 3. A few of the members just sit and listen. 4. Disagreements are not addressed among members, rather ignored by the person who does the most talking.

4 Rationale 1: Even though some members are more vocal, at least all are participating in the discussion.. Rationale 2: Nonverbal communication is important because it gives valuable clues about what people are feeling. Even though some members are more vocal, at least all are participating in the discussion. Verbal communication should be congruent with nonverbal cues. Rationale 3: Listening is an art, and not all members of a family need to speak in the same setting. Rationale 4: This option describes an authoritarian setting where other members may be cautious in expressing their feelings because of power struggles, hostility, or anger. Nurses should pay special attention to who does the talking for the family, which members are silent, how disagreements are handled, and how well the members listen to one another and encourage the participation of others.

A patient in a support group says, "I'm tired of being sick. Everyone always helps me, but I will be glad when I can help someone else." This statement reflects a. altruism .b. universality. c. cohesiveness. d. corrective recapitulation.

A Altruism refers to the experience of being helpful or useful to others, a condition that the patient anticipates will happen. The other options are also therapeutic factors identified by Yalom.

Emergency response workers arrive in a community after a large-scale natural disaster. What is the workers' first action? a. Report to the incident command system (ICS) center. b. Determine whether the community is safe. c. Establish teams of workers with varied skills. d. Evaluate actions completed by local law enforcement.

A An ICS provides a common organizational structure facilitating an immediate response. It establishes a clear chain of command that supports the coordination of personnel and equipment at an event site. The incorrect responses describe actions that may or may not be taken by the ICS.

A therapy group adds new members as others leave. What type of group is evident? a. Open b. Closed c. Homogeneous d. Heterogeneous

A An open group is a group that adds members throughout the life of the group as other members leave and as more persons who would benefit from the group become available. A closed group does not add new members; the membership is established at the beginning and, except for the occasional losses as some members leave, does not change thereafter. Ahomogeneous group includes members who are similar, and a heterogeneous group includes dissimilar members; not enough data are provided here to determine which applies in this case.

After one of their identical twin daughters commits suicide, the parents express concern that the other twin may also have suicidal tendencies. Which reply should the nurse provide? a. "Genetics are associated with suicide risk. Monitoring and support are important." b. "Apathy underlies suicide. Instilling motivation is the key to health maintenance." c. "Your child is unlikely to act out suicide when identifying with a suicide victim." d. "Fraternal twins are at higher risk for suicide than identical twins."

A Twin studies suggest the presence of genetic factors in suicide; however, separating genetic predisposition to suicide from predisposition to depression or alcoholism is difficult. Primary interventions can be helpful in promoting and maintaining health and possibly counteracting genetic load. The incorrect options are untrue statements or an oversimplification.

An 11-year-old diagnosed with ODD becomes angry over the rules at a residential treatment program and begins shouting at the nurse. What is the nurse's initial action to defuse the situation? a. Say to the child, "Tell me how you're feeling right now." b. Take the child swimming at the facility's pool. c. Establish a behavioral contract with the child. d. Administer an anxiolytic medication.

B Redirecting the expression of feelings into nondestructive, age-appropriate behaviors such as a physical activity helps the child learn how to modulate the expression of feelings and exert self-control. This is the least restrictive alternative and should be tried before resorting to measures that are more restrictive. A shouting child will not likely engage in a discussion about feelings. A behavioral contract could be considered later, but first the situation must be defused.

A family member is hospitalized with an illness. Which of the following factors will the nurse assess to determine the impact this illness will have on the family? 1. Nature of the illness 2. Duration of the illness 3. Cause of the illness 4. Financial impact of the illness 5. Effect of the illness on future family functioning

1,2,4,5 Rationale 1: Other factors include residual effects of the illness, meaning of the illness to the family, and its significance to family systems. The cause of the illness is not a factor that determines the impact on the family.

An adolescent comes to the crisis clinic and reports sexual abuse by an uncle. The adolescent told both parents about the uncle's behavior, but the parents did not believe the adolescent. What type of crisis exists? a. Maturational b. Tertiary c. Situational d. Organic

C A situational crisis arises from events that are extraordinary, external rather than internal, and often unanticipated. Sexual molestation falls within this classification. Maturational crisis occurs as an individual arrives at a new stage of development, when old coping styles may be ineffective. "Organic" and "Tertiary" are not types of crisis.

After celebrating the fortieth birthday, an individual becomes concerned with the loss of youthful appearance. What type of crisis has occurred? a. Reactive b. Situational c. Maturational d. Body image

C Maturational crises occur when a person arrives at a new stage of development and finds that old coping styles are ineffective but has not yet developed new strategies. Situational crises arise from sources external to the individual. "Reactive" and "body image" are not types of crisis.

Which agency provides coordination in the event of a terrorist attack? a. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) b. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) c. National Incident Management System (NIMS) d. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

C The NIMS provides a systematic approach to guide departments and agencies at all levels of government, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector during disaster situations.

Which child demonstrates behaviors indicative of a neurodevelopmental disorder? a. A 4-year-old who stuttered for 3 weeks after the birth of a sibling b. A 9-month-old who does not eat vegetables and likes to be rocked c. A 3-month-old who cries after feeding until burped and sucks a thumb d. A 3-year-old who is mute, passive toward adults, and twirls while walking

D Symptoms consistent with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) are evident in the correct answer. ASD is one type of neurodevelopmental disorder. The behaviors of the other children are within normal ranges.

Which scenario is an example of a situational crisis? a. The death of a child from sudden infant death syndrome b. Development of a heroin addiction c. Retirement of a 55-year-old person d. A riot at a rock concert

D The rock concert riot is unplanned, accidental, violent, and not a part of everyday life. The incorrect options are examples of maturational crises.

The feeling experienced by a patient that should be assessed by the nurse as most predictive of elevated suicide risk is a. hopelessness. b. sadness. c. elation. d. anger.

A Of the feelings listed, hopelessness is most closely associated with increased suicide risk. Depression, aggression, impulsivity, and shame are other feelings noted as risk factors for suicide.

A new nursing graduate obtained licensure as a registered nurse. This nurse searched unsuccessfully for employment in desired settings and, after a year, accepted a position in a forensic facility. One year later, which statement by the nurse best demonstrates successful adaptation to the role? A. "I am surprised by how challenging the position is and how many skills I have developed." B. "I have told a few of my former classmates about my job but not my former nursing faculty." C. "I plan to work here another year and then try again to get a position in a major medical center." D. "I think it's better not to post my position or name of my employer on my social network page."

A The correct response demonstrates pride in skills obtained and the challenges of the role, both of which indicate successful adaptation to the role. The incorrect responses suggest the nurse is ashamed of the role or employment site.

A correctional nurse plans a health education series for prison inmates. Which topic is most important for the nurse to include in this series? a. Sleep hygiene b. Personal grooming c. Social skills training d. Assertive communication

A The most common mental health symptoms experienced by inmates are insomnia and hypersomnia; therefore, sleep hygiene would address these needs. Sleep is a basic physiological need that must be met before higher needs are addressed.

A patient comes to the crisis center saying, "I'm in a terrible situation. I don't know what to do." The triage nurse can initially assume that the patient is a. suicidal. b. anxious and fearful. c. misperceiving reality. d. potentially homicidal.

B Individuals in crisis are universally anxious. They are often frightened and may be mildly confused. Perceptions are often narrowed with anxiety.

A patient who is visiting the crisis clinic for the first time asks, "How long will I be coming here?" The nurse's reply should consider that the usual duration of crisis intervention is a. 1 to 2 weeks. b. 3 to 4 weeks. c. 4 to 6 weeks. d. 8 to 12 weeks.

C The disorganization associated with crisis is so distressing that it usually cannot be tolerated for more than 4 to 6 weeks. If it is not resolved by that time, the individual usually adopts dysfunctional behaviors that reduce anxiety without solving the problem. Crisis intervention can shorten the duration.

Which measure would be considered a form of primary prevention for suicide? a. Psychiatric hospitalization of a suicidal patient b. Referral of a formerly suicidal patient to a support group c. Suicide precautions for 24 hours for newly admitted patients d. Helping school children learn to manage stress and be resilient

D This measure promotes effective coping and reduces the likelihood that such children will become suicidal later in life. Admissions and suicide precautions are secondary prevention measures. Support group referral is a tertiary prevention measure.

A father of a family was killed in a motor vehicle crash. Which of the following would the nurse consider a normal reaction to this event? 1. Family disorganization may occur. 2. Family members become detached from extended family. 3. The family feels that their place in the community has been eliminated. 4. The family withdraws into seclusion during the grief process.

1 Rationale 1: The death of a family member often has a profound effect on the whole familyespecially if the deceased, as in this situation, was the head of the family. Family disorganization would be common, but as the family begins to recover, a new sense of normalcy develops and the family reintegrates its roles and functions. Rationale 2: Families need support from extended family members, their community, and spiritual advisers. Rationale 3: This option isnot considered a normalpatterns of family grieving, and the nurse should be alert for problems that may develop if these are present. Rationale 4: This option (Isolating) is not considered a normal pattern of family grieving, and the nurse should be alert for problems that may develop if these are present.

The nurse appropriately prepares to assess a family regarding the impact of one of its members being diagnosed with diabetes when considering: Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. The seriousness of the disorder. 2. Whether the family has ever dealt with a chronic illness before. 3. The age of the affected member. 4. The financial impact the illness will have on the family. 5. The number of members of the family.

1,2,4 Rationale 1: It is appropriate to consider the seriousness of the disorder, since the impact on the family will be in proportion to the degree of seriousness. Rationale 2: It is appropriate to consider the effect of the illness on future family functioning. (For instance, previous patterns might be restored, or new patterns might be established.) Rationale 3: The age of the affected member is generally not impactful, since such an illness at any age will affect the family function. Rationale 4: It is appropriate to consider the financial impact of the illness, which is influenced by factors such as insurance and the ability of the ill member to return to work. Rationale 5: The number of members in the family has little impact on the overall change an illness will cause.

Which of the following is the purpose of a family assessment? Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. Determine the level of family functioning. 2. Identify family strengths and weaknesses. 3. Provide legal guidelines for consent to health care. 4. Clarify family interaction patterns.

1,2,4 Rationale 1: One other purpose is to describe the health status of the family and its individual members. Legal guidelines regarding health care issues such as insurance coverage and the right to consent for health care are important when working with same-sex couples. Rationale 2: One other purpose is to describe the health status of the family and its individual members. Legal guidelines regarding health care issues such as insurance coverage and the right to consent for health care are important when working with same-sex couples. Rationale 3: One other purpose is to describe the health status of the family and its individual members. Legal guidelines regarding health care issues such as insurance coverage and the right to consent for health care are important when working with same-sex couples. Rationale 4: One other purpose is to describe the health status of the family and its individual members. Legal guidelines regarding health care issues such as insurance coverage and the right to consent for health care are important when working with same-sex couples.

A nurse is confident a family is functioning appropriately when: Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. The teenaged son keeps the money he earns cutting grass for his car fund. 2. All the children are expected to excel in the sport of their choice. 3. A parent reads the preschool child a bedtime story each night. 4. All the children have household chores once they reach school age. 5. A young adult child moves back home when losing his job.

1,3,4,5 Rationale 1: An appropriately functioning family has the economic resources needed by the family secured by adult members. Rationale 2: An appropriately functioning family provides support, understanding, and encouragement to all without rigid expectations that unnecessarily force decisions. Rationale 3: An appropriately functioning family creates an atmosphere that influences the cognitive and the psychosocial growth of its members. Rationale 4: An appropriately functioning family supports each other and the family unit. An appropriately functioning family provides support, understanding, and encouragement to all as they progress through predictable developmental stages, as they move in or out of the family unit, and as they establish new family units.

A nurse has been working with a family at the community health office and is alert to signs of family violence. Which of the following would the nurse most concerning? 1. The baby always seems to have a cold. 2. One of the children never speaks and seems on guard when in the presence of a parent. 3. The familys clothes are relatively clean, but the children usually have some kind of dirt stain on their shirt or pants. 4. The family does not have a regular physician.

2 Rationale 1: The baby may have an untreated condition, but chronic cold symptoms are not evidence of abuse. Rationale 2: A child who doesnt speak and is watchful when parents are near would be a significant indicator of a possible abuse situation. Rationale 3: Dirty clothes or clothes not meeting the nurses standards are not signs of abusemaybe for this family, appearance is not a high priority. Rationale 4: Not having a regular physician would be a concern for health promotion and maintenance, but not for abuse.

A client is asked during an admission interview to describe her family. She proceeds to list parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. This client is describing which type of family? 1. Nuclear 2. Extended 3. Traditional 4. Blended

2 Rationale 1: The nuclear family contains parents and offspring. Rationale 2: The extended family includes parents and offspring (nuclear) along with relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Rationale 3: A traditional family is viewed as one in which both parents reside in the home with their childrenthe mother assuming the nurturing role and the father providing the necessary economic resources Rationale 4: A blended family consists of existing family units joined together to form new families, also known as stepfamilies or reconstituted families.

During a previous family assessment, the nurse realized that the mother did most of the talking and was quick to make decisions, which appeared to be acceptable to the father. When one of their children is hospitalized, the nurse will: 1. Make sure that both parents are involved in all decision making. 2. Allow the mother to make the decisions. 3. Include both parents in the decision making, but be accepting if the mother retains control. 4. Make sure that the physician understands the family dynamics so parental consent comes from the mother.

3 Rationale 1: The nurse uses information gained from the assessment to help diagnose, plan, and implement care. Understanding that the mother assumes the authority role in this particular family, the nurse may find it easier to address things with both present but not be surprised if this pattern continues during the childs hospitalization. Rationale 2: The nurse should not assume that in a crisis situation or during stress that family processes will be the same and will want to make sure that the father is present during the process. Rationale 3: The nurse uses information gained from the assessment to help diagnose, plan, and implement care. Understanding that the mother assumes the authority role in this particular family, the nurse may find it easier to address things with both present but not be surprised if this pattern continues during the childs hospitalization. However, the nurse should not assume that in a crisis situation or during stress that family processes will be the same and will want to make sure that the father is present during the process. Rationale 4: This option reflects an inappropriate assumption that only the mother can provide consent to treat.

Which statement provides the best rationale for closely monitoring a severely depressed patient during antidepressant medication therapy? a. As depression lifts, physical energy becomes available to carry out suicide. b. Patients who previously had suicidal thoughts need to discuss their feelings. c. For most patients, antidepressant medication results in increased suicidal thinking. d. Suicide is an impulsive act. Antidepressant medication does not alter impulsivity.

A Antidepressant medication has the objective of relieving depression. Risk for suicide is greater as the depression lifts, primarily because the patient has more physical energy at a time when he or she may still have suicidal ideation. The other options have little to do with nursing interventions relating to antidepressant medication therapy.

The child prescribed an antipsychotic medication to manage violent behavior is one most likely diagnosed with a. ADHD. b. posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). c. communication disorder. d. an anxiety disorder.

A Antipsychotic medication is useful for managing aggressive or violent behavior in some children diagnosed with ADHD. If medication were prescribed for a child with an anxiety disorder, it would be a benzodiazepine. Medications are generally not needed for children with communication disorder. Treatment of PTSD is more often associated with SSRI medications.

A child diagnosed with ADHD will begin medication therapy. The nurse should prepare a plan to teach the family about which classification of medications? a. CNS stimulants c. Antipsychotics b. Tricyclic antidepressants d. Anxiolytics

A CNS stimulants, such as methylphenidate and pemoline (Cylert), increase blood flow to the brain and have proved helpful in reducing hyperactivity in children and adolescents with ADHD. The other medication categories listed would not be appropriate.

Which nursing diagnosis is universally applicable for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders? a. Impaired social interaction related to difficulty maintaining relationships b. Chronic low self-esteem related to excessive negative feedback c. Deficient fluid volume related to abnormal eating habits d. Anxiety related to nightmares and repetitive activities

A Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders display profoundly disturbed social relatedness. They seem aloof and indifferent to others, often preferring inanimate objects to human interaction. Language is often delayed and deviant, further complicating relationship issues. The other nursing diagnoses might not be appropriate in all cases.

Soon after parents announced they were divorcing, a child stopped participating in sports, sat alone at lunch, and avoided former friends. The child told the school nurse, "If my parents loved me, they would work out their problems." Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority? a. Social isolation b. Decisional conflict c. Chronic low self-esteem d. Disturbed personal identity

A This child shows difficulty coping with problems associated with the family. Social isolation refers to aloneness that the patient perceives negatively, even when self-imposed. The other options are not supported by data in the scenario.

Which nursing interventions will be implemented for a patient who is actively suicidal? (Select all that apply.) a. Maintain arm's length, one-on-one direct observation at all times. b. Check all items brought by visitors and remove risk items. c. Use plastic eating utensils; count utensils upon collection. d. Remove the patient's eyeglasses to prevent self-injury. e. Interact with the patient every 15 minutes.

A,B,C One-on-one observation is necessary for anyone who has limited or unreliable control over suicidal impulses. Finger foods allow the patient to eat without silverware; "no silver or glassware" orders restrict access to a potential means of self-harm. Every-15-minute checks are inadequate to assure the safety of an actively suicidal person. Placement in a public area is not a substitute for arm's-length direct observation; some patients will attempt suicide even when others are nearby. Vision impairment requires eyeglasses (or contacts); although they could be used dangerously, watching the patient from arm's length at all times would allow enough time to interrupt such an attempt and would prevent the disorientation and isolation that uncorrected visual impairment could create.

A group has two more sessions before it ends. One member was previously vocal and has shown much progress but has now grown silent. What explanation most likely underlies this behavior? The silent member a. has participated in the group and now has nothing more to offer. b. is having trouble dealing with feelings about termination of this group. c. wants to give quieter members a chance to talk in the remaining sessions. d. is engaging in attention-seeking behavior aimed at continuation of the group.

B A chief task during the termination phase of a group is to take what has been learned in group and transition to life without the group. The end of a group can be a significant loss for members, who may experience loss and grief and respond with sadness or anger. It is unlikely he would have nothing to say; at the very least, he could be responding to the comments of others even if not focusing on his own issues. He may wish to give quieter members a chance to talk, but again, this would not require or explain his complete silence. Some members, faced with only two remaining sessions, may be becoming more dominant under this pressure of time, but here too this is unlikely to lead a previously active participant to fall completely silent. The member is not attention-seeking.

A nurse assesses a patient in crisis. Select the most appropriate question for the nurse to ask to assess this patient's situational support. a. "Has anything upsetting occurred in the past few days?" b. "Who can be helpful to you during this time?" c. "How does this problem affect your life?" d. "What led you to seek help at this time?"

B Only the answer focuses on situational support. The incorrect options focus on the patient's perception of the precipitating event.

A nurse testifies about care provided to a patient in the 8 hours before a successful suicide. The nurse responds to questions about observations regarding the patient's behavior as well as interventions performed and documented during the shift. In what capacity was this nurse testifying? a. Forensic nurse examiner b. Expert witness c. Fact witness d. Consultant

C A fact witness testifies regarding first-hand experience only; that is, the facts the witness possesses because of personal experience with the situation under review. Forensic nurse examiners conduct court-ordered examinations and provide written reports and court testimony regarding the findings of the examinations, but they do not give direct patient care. Consultants are neutral experts who educate or advise the Court or its officers on technical matters such as standards of nursing care. An expert witness shares professional expertise about the defendant or elements of the crime and testifies on behalf of the prosecution or defendant.

A kindergartener is disruptive in class. This child is unable to sit for expected lengths of time, inattentive to the teacher, screams while the teacher is talking, and is aggressive toward other children. The nurse plans interventions designed to a. promote integration of self-concept. b. provide inpatient treatment for the child. c. reduce loneliness and increase self-esteem. d. improve language and communication skills.

C Because of their disruptive behaviors, children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often receive negative feedback from parents, teachers, and peers, leading to self-esteem disturbance. These behaviors also cause peers to avoid the child with ADHD, leaving the child with ADHD vulnerable to loneliness. The child does not need inpatient treatment at this time. The incorrect options might or might not be relevant.

When group therapy is prescribed as a treatment modality, the nurse would suggest placement of a 9-year-old in a group that uses a. guided imagery. b. talk focused on a specific issue. c. play and talk about a play activity. d. group discussion about selected topics.

C Group therapy for young children takes the form of play. For elementary school children, therapy combines play and talk about the activity. For adolescents, group therapy involves more talking.

A patient in a group therapy session listens to others and then remarks, "I used to think I was the only one who felt afraid. I guess I'm not as alone as I thought." This comment is an example of a. altruism. b. ventilation. c. universality. d. group cohesiveness.

C Realizing that one is not alone and that others share the same problems and feelings is called universality. Ventilation refers to expressing emotions. Altruism refers to benefitting by being of help to others. Group cohesiveness refers to the degree of bonding among members of the group.

A patient is seen in the clinic for superficial cuts on both wrists. Initially the patient paces and sobs but after a few minutes, the patient is calmer. The nurse attempts to determine the patient's perception of the precipitating event by asking: a. "Tell me why you were crying." b. "How did your wrists get injured?" c. "How can I help you feel more comfortable?" d. "What was happening when you started feeling this way?"

D A clear definition of the immediate problem provides the best opportunity to find a solution. Asking about recent upsetting events facilitates assessment of the precipitating event. The patient is unlikely to be able to articulate what interventions will increase feelings of comfort. "Why" questions are nontherapeutic.

A 4-year-old cries for 5 minutes when the parents leave the child at preschool. The parents ask the nurse, "What should we do?" Select the nurse's best response. a. "Ask the teacher to let the child call you at play time." b. "Withdraw the child from preschool until maturity increases." c. "Remain with your child for the first hour of preschool time." d. "Give your child a kiss before you leave the preschool program."

D The child demonstrates age-appropriate behavior for a 4-year-old. The nurse should reassure the parents. The distracters are over-reactions.

Four individuals have given information about their suicide plans. Which plan evidences the highest suicide risk? a. Turning on the oven and letting gas escape into the apartment during the night b. Cutting the wrists in the bathroom while the spouse reads in the next room c. Overdosing on aspirin with codeine while the spouse is out with friends d. Jumping from a railroad bridge located in a deserted area late at night

D This is a highly lethal method with little opportunity for rescue. The other options are lower lethality methods with higher rescue potential. See relationship to audience response question.

The principle most useful to a nurse planning crisis intervention for any patient is that the patient a. is experiencing a state of disequilibrium. b. is experiencing a type of mental illness. c. poses a threat of violence to others. d. has high potential for self-injury.

A Disequilibrium is the only answer universally true for all patients in crisis. A crisis represents a struggle for equilibrium when problems seem unsolvable. Crisis does not reflect mental illness. Potential for self-violence or other-directed violence may or may not be a factor in crisis.

Which assessment findings support a diagnosis of ODD?a. Negative, hostile, and spiteful toward parents. Blames others for misbehavior. b. Exhibits involuntary facial twitching and blinking; makes barking sounds. c. Violates others' rights; cruelty toward people or animals; steals; truancy. d. Displays poor academic performance and reports frequent nightmares.

A ODD is a repeated and persistent pattern of having an angry and irritable mood in conjunction with demonstrating defiant and vindictive behavior. The distracters identify findings associated with CD, anxiety disorder, and Tourette's syndrome.

A nurse assesses five newly hospitalized patients. Which patients have the highest suicide risk? (Select all that apply.) a. 82-year-old white male b. 17-year-old white female c. 22-year-old Hispanic male d. 19-year-old Native American male e. 39-year-old African American male

A,B,D Whites have suicide rates almost twice those of nonwhites, and the rate is particularly high for older adult males, adolescents, and young adults. Other high-risk groups include young African American males, Native American males, and older Asian Americans. Rates are not high for Hispanic males.

Which change in the brain's biochemical function is most associated with suicidal behavior? a. Dopamine excessb. Serotonin deficiencyc. Acetylcholine excess d. y-aminobutyric acid deficiency

B Research suggests that low levels of serotonin may play a role in the decision to commit suicide. The other neurotransmitter alterations have not been implicated in suicidality.

In which circumstance would a psychiatric forensic nurse examiner determine it appropriate for a defendant and attorney to consider the insanity defense? At the time of the crime, the defendant a. shot a drug dealer who tried to overcharge for cocaine. b. acted on auditory hallucinations of the voice of God commanding, "Kill the children." c. tampered with the brakes on his wife's car after discovering she had an extramarital affair. d. was frightened because of a home robbery the preceding night, assumed a family member was another burglar, and shot him.

B The defendant, demonstrating symptoms of psychosis and acting on the direction of command hallucinations, could use the defense of legal insanity because he was unable to recognize his action as wrong due to a psychiatric illness. The other options suggest the defendant knew right from wrong, had the capacity to know the nature and quality of the act, and had the capacity to form intent to commit the crime.

A desired outcome for a 12-year-old diagnosed with ADHD is to improve relationships with other children. Which treatment modality should the nurse suggest for the plan of care?a. Reality therapy b. Simple restitution c. Social skills group d. Insight-oriented group therapy

C Social skills training teaches the child to recognize the impact of his or her behavior on others. It uses instruction, role playing, and positive reinforcement to enhance social outcomes. The other therapies would have lesser or no impact on peer relationships.

A nurse uses the SAD PERSONS scale to interview a patient. This tool provides data relevant to a. current stress level. b. mood disturbance. c. suicide potential. d. level of anxiety.

C The SAD PERSONS tool evaluates 10 major risk factors in suicide potential: sex, age, depression, previous attempt, ethanol use, rational thinking loss, social supports lacking, organized plan, no spouse, and sickness. The tool does not have categories to provide information on the other options listed.

A nurse assesses a patient who reports a 3-week history of depression and periods of uncontrolled crying. The patient says, "My business is bankrupt, and I was served with divorce papers." Which subsequent statement by the patient alerts the nurse to a concealed suicidal message? a. "I wish I were dead." b. "Life is not worth living." c. "I have a plan that will fix everything." d. "My family will be better off without me."

C Verbal clues to suicide may be overt or covert. The incorrect options are overt references to suicide. The correct option is more veiled. It alludes to the patient's suicide as being a way to "fix everything" but does not say it outright.

Which credential would be expected of an expert witness in the area of forensic psychiatric nursing? a. 3 years of experience in an inpatient psychiatric facility b. 10 years of experience in community health nursing c. Educational preparation of an associate degree in nursing d. Publication of three articles in peer-reviewed psychiatric nursing journals

D To establish credibility as an expert witness and have one's opinion given equal weight to that of other professionals in court, the forensic nurse specialist must have current clinical expertise, trustworthiness, and a professional presentation style. The expert witness is an authority in a specialty area. If the expert has conducted research and published in the area, it is an added strength. Expert testimony is based on evidence-based practice. Forensic nurses with advanced degrees are more likely to be called upon as expert witnesses.

A family struggles with clear communication, and members of the family often seek the help of other systems for personal validation and gratification. What would be an appropriate nursing diagnosis for this family? 1. Altered Family Processes related to communication patterns 2. Impaired Verbal Communication related to inability to communicate 3. Ineffective Family Coping evidenced by assistance from outside sources 4. Knowledge Deficiency (communication patterns) related to dysfunctional patterns of communication

1 Rationale 1: This describes a state in which a family with previous normal functioning experiences a dysfunction. The communication patterns have affected how the family works as a unit. Rationale 2: Impaired Verbal Communication means that the members are not able to communicate because of complications with speaking or saying the words, which is not the case in this situation. Rationale 3: Ineffective Family Coping must be related to an etiology, so this option is not worded correctly. Rationale 4: Knowledge Deficiency is not correct as the family does recognize the problem since members of the family seek assistance from outside sources, as given in the scenario.

Which assessment finding would cause the nurse to consider a child to be most at risk for the development of mental illness? a. The child has been raised by a parent with recurring major depressive disorder. b. The child's best friend was absent from the child's birthday party. c. The child was not promoted to the next grade one year. d. The child moved to three new homes over a 2-year period.

A Children raised by a depressed parent have an increased risk of developing an emotional disorder. Familial risk factors correlate with child psychiatric disorders, including severe marital discord, low socioeconomic status, large families and overcrowding, parental criminality, maternal psychiatric disorders, and foster-care placement. The chronicity of the parent's depression means it has been a consistent stressor. The other factors are not as risk-enhancing.

An adolescent was arrested for prostitution and assault on a parent. The adolescent says, "I hate my parents. They focus all attention on my brother, who's perfect in their eyes." Which type of therapy might promote the greatest change in the adolescent's behavior?a. Family therapy b. Bibliotherapy c. Play therapy d. Art therapy

A Family therapy focuses on problematic family relationships and interactions. The patient has identified problems within the family. Play therapy is more appropriate for younger patients. Art therapy and bibliotherapy would not focus specifically on the identified problem.

Parents of an adolescent diagnosed with a CD say, "We don't know how to respond when our child breaks the rules in our house. Is there any treatment that might help us?" Which therapy is likely to be helpful for these parents?a. Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) b. Behavior modification therapy c. Multi-systemic therapy (MST) d. Pharmacotherapy

A In PCIT, the therapist sits behind one-way mirrors and coaches parents through an ear audio device while they interact with their children. The therapist can suggest strategies that reinforce positive behavior in the adolescent. The goal is to improve parenting strategies and thereby reduce problematic behavior. Behavior modification therapy may help the adolescent, but the parents are seeking help for themselves. MST is much broader and does not target the parents' need.

A leader plans to start a new self-esteem building group. Which intervention would be most helpful for assuring mutual respect within the group? A. Describe the importance of mutual respect in the first session and establish it as a group norm. B. Exclude potential members whose behavior suggests they are likely to be disrespectful of others. C. Give members a brochure describing the purpose, norms, and expectations of the group. D. Explain that mutual respect is expected and confront those who are not respectful.

A It is helpful to motivate members to behave respectfully by describing how mutual respect benefits all members and is necessary for the group to be fully therapeutic. Setting a tone and expectation of mutual respect from the outset is the most helpful intervention listed. Excluding members because of how they might behave could exclude members who would have been appropriate, depriving them of the potential benefits of the group. Conveying expectations by brochure is less effective than doing so orally, because it lacks the connection to each member a skilled leader can create to motivate members and impart the expectation of respect. Confronting inappropriate behavior is therapeutic but only addresses existing behavior rather than preventing all such undesired behavior.

Select the best question for a psychiatric forensic nurse examiner to ask when assessing the legal sanity of an individual charged with a crime. a. "Tell me about what you were thinking at the time of the alleged crime." b. "What would you do if you heard a fire alarm going off where you live?" c. "At this time, are you having any experiences that others might think strange?" d. "Do you feel as though you would like to harm yourself or anyone else at the present time?"

A Legal sanity refers to the individual's ability to know right from wrong with reference to the act charged, the capacity to know the nature and quality of the act charged, and the capacity to form the intent to commit the crime. It is determined for the specific time of the act. The distracters apply to other parts of a mental status assessment and do not assess the patient's state at the time of the alleged crime.

An adolescent diagnosed with CD has aggression, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and mood symptoms. The treatment team believes this adolescent may benefit from medication. The nurse anticipates the health care provider will prescribe which type of medication?a. Second-generation antipsychotic b. Antianxiety medication c. Calcium channel blocker d. B-Blocker

A Medications for CD are directed at problematic behaviors such as aggression, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and mood symptoms. Second-generation antipsychotics are likely to be prescribed. β-blocking medications may help to calm individuals with intermittent explosive disorder by slowing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers reduce blood pressure but are not used for persons with impulse control problems. An antianxiety medication will not assist with impulse control.

A nurse leads a psychoeducational group for patients in the community diagnosed with schizophreni a. A realistic outcome for group members is that they willa. discuss ways to manage their illness. b. develop a high level of trust and cohesiveness. c. understand unconscious motivation for behavior. d. demonstrate insight about development of their illness.

A Patients with schizophrenia almost universally have problems associated with everyday living in the community, so discussing ways to manage the illness would be an important aspect of psychoeducation. Discussing concerns about daily life would be a goal to which each could relate. Developing trust and cohesion is desirable but is not the priority outcome of a psychoeducational group. Understanding unconscious motivation would not be addressed. Insight would be difficult for a patient with residual schizophrenia because of the tendency toward concrete thinking.

A parent diagnosed with schizophrenia and 13-year-old child live in a homeless shelter. The child formed a trusting relationship with a shelter volunteer. The child says, "My three friends and I got an A on our school science project." The nurse can assess that the child a. displays resiliency. b. has a passive temperament. c. is at risk for PTSD. d. uses intellectualization to deal with problems.

A Resiliency enables a child to handle the stresses of a difficult childhood. Resilient children can adapt to changes in the environment, take advantage of nurturing relationships with adults other than parents, distance themselves from emotional chaos occurring within the family, learn, and use problem-solving skills.

While conducting the initial interview with a patient in crisis, the nurse should a. speak in short, concise sentences. b. convey a sense of urgency to the patient. c. be forthright about time limits of the interview. d. let the patient know the nurse controls the interview.

A Severe anxiety narrows perceptions and concentration. By speaking in short concise sentences, the nurse enables the patient to grasp what is being said. Conveying urgency will increase the patient's anxiety. Letting the patient know who controls the interview or stating that time is limited is nontherapeutic.

A victim of intimate partner violence comes to the crisis center seeking help. Crisis intervention strategies the nurse applies will focus on a. supporting emotional security and reestablishing equilibrium. b. long-term resolution of issues precipitating the crisis. c. promoting growth of the individual. d. providing legal assistance.

A Strategies of crisis intervention address the immediate cause of the crisis and restoration of emotional security and equilibrium. The goal is to return the individual to the precrisis level of function. Crisis intervention is, by definition, short term. The correct response is the most global answer. Promoting growth is a focus of long-term therapy. Providing legal assistance might or might not be applicable.

Three members of a therapy group share covert glances as other members of the group describe problems. When one makes a statement that subtly criticizes another speaker, the others nod in agreement. Which group dynamic should the leader suspect? a. Some members are acting as a subgroup instead of as members of the main group. b. Some of the members have become bored and are disregarding others. c. Three members are showing their frustration with slower members. d. The leadership of the group has been ineffective.

A Subgroups, small groups isolated within a larger group and functioning separately from it, sometimes form within therapy groups. When this occurs, subgroup members are cohesive with other subgroup members but not with the members of the larger group. Members of the subgroup may be bored or frustrated or expressing passive aggression, but the primary dynamic is the splitting off from the main group.

A 16-year-old diagnosed with a conduct disorder (CD) has been in a residential program for 3 months. Which outcome should occur before discharge? a. The adolescent and parents create and agree to a behavioral contract with rules, rewards, and consequences. b. The adolescent identifies friends in the home community who are a positive influence. c. Temporary placement is arranged with a foster family until the parents complete a parenting skills class. d. The adolescent experiences no anger and frustration for 1 week

A The adolescent and the parents must agree on a behavioral contract that clearly outlines rules, expected behaviors, and consequences for misbehavior. It must also include rewards for following the rules. The adolescent will continue to experience anger and frustration. The adolescent and parents must continue with family therapy to work on boundary and communication issues. It is not necessary to separate the adolescent from the family to work on these issues. Separation is detrimental to the healing process. While it is helpful for the adolescent to identify peers who are a positive influence, it is more important for behavior to be managed for an adolescent diagnosed with a CD.

An adult has cared for a debilitated parent for 10 years. The health care provider recently recommended transfer of the parent to a skilled nursing facility. The adult says, "I've always been able to care for my parents. Nursing home placement goes against everything I believe." Successful resolution of this adult's crisis will most closely relate to a. resolving the feelings associated with the threat to the person's self-concept. b. ability of the person to identify situational supports in the community. c. reliance on assistance from role models within the person's culture. d. mobilization of automatic relief behaviors by the person.

A The adult's crisis clearly relates to a loss of (or threatened change in) self-concept. Her capacity to care for her parents, regardless of the parent's condition, has been challenged. Crisis resolution will involve coming to terms with the feelings associated with this loss. Identifying situational supports is relevant, but less so than coming to terms with the threat to self-concept. Reliance on lessons from role models can be helpful but not the primary factor associated with resolution in this case. Automatic relief behaviors include withdrawal or flight and will not be helpful. Automatic relief behaviors are part of the third phase of crisis.

During the initial interview at the crisis center, a patient says, "I've been served with divorce papers. I'm so upset and anxious that I can't think clearly." Which comment should the nurse use to assess personal coping skills?a. "In the past, how have you handled difficult or stressful situations?" b. "What would you like us to do to help you feel more relaxed?" c. "Tell me more about how it feels to be anxious and upset." d. "Can you describe your role in the marital relationship?"

A The correct answer is the only option that assesses coping skills. The incorrect options are concerned with self-esteem, ask the patient to decide on treatment at a time when he or she "cannot think clearly," and seek to explore issues tangential to the crisis.

A depressed patient says, "Nothing matters anymore." What is the most appropriate response by the nurse? a. "Are you having thoughts of suicide?" b. "I am not sure I understand what you are trying to say." c. "Try to stay hopeful. Things have a way of working out." d. "Tell me more about what interested you before you became depressed."

A The nurse must make overt what is covert; that is, the possibility of suicide must be openly addressed. The patient often feels relieved to be able to talk about suicidal ideation.

A college student who attempted suicide by overdose was hospitalized. When the parents were contacted, they responded, "We should have seen this coming. We did not do enough." The parents' reaction reflects a. guilt. b. denial. c. shame. d. rescue feelings.

A The parents' statements indicate guilt. Guilt is evident from the parents' self-chastisement. The feelings suggested in the distracters are not clearly described in the scenario.

It has been 5 days since a suicidal patient was hospitalized and prescribed an antidepressant medication. The patient is now more talkative and shows increased energy. Select the highest priority nursing intervention. a. Supervise the patient 24 hours a day. b. Begin discharge planning for the patient. c. Refer the patient to art and music therapists. d. Consider discontinuation of suicide precautions.

A The patient now has more energy and may have decided on suicide, especially given the prior suicide attempt history. The patient must be supervised 24 hours per day. The patient is still a suicide risk.

During group therapy, one patient says to another, "When I first started in this group, you were unable to make a decision, but now you can. You've made so much progress that I am beginning to think maybe I can conquer my fears too." Which therapeutic factor is evident by this statement? a. Hope b. Altruism c. Catharsis d. Cohesiveness

A The patient's profession that he may be able to learn to cope more effectively reflects hope. Groups can instill hope in individuals who are demoralized or pessimistic. Altruism refers to doing good for others, which can result in positive feelings about oneself. Catharsis refers to venting of strong emotions. Cohesion refers to coming together and developing a connection with other group members.

Which characteristics best qualify a nurse for employment as a forensic psychiatric nurse? (Select all that apply.) a. Incorporation of "street smarts" into clinical practice b. Comfortable in a variety of practice settings c. Desire to punish perpetrators of crime d. Able to think clearly under stresse. Autonomous and self-sufficientf. Critical care skills

A,B,D,E Forensic nursing requires the ability to address the issues and provide care in a truly neutral manner. All forensic nurses, whatever their specific title or responsibilities, must therefore be objective and not be motivated by any personal beliefs about what should or should not happen to patients involved in the criminal justice system. Street smarts can be a desirable trait in working with perpetrators, especially in hostage negotiation situations. Forensic nurses practice in a wide variety of nontraditional settings. While forensic nurses are often members of teams, autonomy and self-sufficiency are important traits. Forensic nurses do not need critical care skills.

Which assessment findings present familial risks for a child to develop a psychiatric disorder? (Select all that apply.) a. Having a mother diagnosed with schizophrenia b. Being the oldest child in a family c. Living with an alcoholic parent d. Being an only child e. Living in an urban community

A,C Familial risk factors that correlate with child psychiatric disorders include severe marital discord, low socioeconomic status, large families and overcrowding, parental criminality, maternal psychiatric disorders, and foster-care placement. Having a parent with a substance abuse problem increases the risk of marital discord. A family history of schizophrenia presents a genetic risk. Being in a middle-income family, living in an urban community, and being an only or oldest child do not represent adversity.

A college student is extremely upset after failing two examinations. The student said, "No one understands how this will hurt my chances of getting into medical school." The student then suspends access to his social networking website and turns off his cell phone. Which suicide risk factors are evident? (Select all that apply.) a. Shame b. Panic attack c. Humiliation d. Self-imposed isolation e. Recent stressful life event

A,C,D,E Failing examinations in the academic major constitutes a recent stressful life event. Shame and humiliation related to the failure can be hypothesized. The statement, "No one can understand," can be seen as recent lack of social support. Terminating access to one's social networking site and turning off the cell phone represents self-imposed isolation. The scenario does not provide evidence of panic attack.

A nurse driving home after work comes upon a serious automobile accident. The driver gets out of the car with no apparent physical injuries. Which assessment findings would the nurse expect from the driver immediately after this event? (Select all that apply.) a. Difficulty using a cell phone b. Long-term memory losses c. Fecal incontinence d. Rapid speech e. Trembling

A,D,E Immediate responses to crisis commonly include shock, numbness, denial, confusion, disorganization, difficulty with decision making, and physical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, tremors, profuse sweating, and dizziness associated with anxiety. Incontinence and long-term memory losses would not be expected.

A nurse on an adolescent psychiatric unit assesses a newly admitted 14-year-old. An impulse control disorder is suspected. Which aspects of the patient's history support the suspected diagnosis? (Select all that apply.) a. Family history of mental illness b. Allergies to multiple antibiotics c. Long history of severe facial acne d. Father with history of alcohol abuse e. History of an abusive relationship with one parent

A,D,E Parents who are abusive, rejecting, or overly controlling cause a child to suffer detrimental effects. Other stressors associated with impulse control disorders can include major disruptions such as placement in foster care, severe marital discord, or a separation of parents. Substance abuse by a parent is common. Acne and allergies are not aspects of the history that relate to the behavior.

A psychiatric forensic nurse assigned to a hostage negotiation tactical team is deployed when an individual takes several hostages. Which tasks apply to the nurse's role on the team? (Select all that apply.) a. Assess released hostages. b. Negotiate with the perpetrator. c. Direct strategies for police deployment. d. Assess the mental status of the perpetrator. e. Suggest communication techniques to a negotiator.

A,D,E The forensic nurse assigned to a hostage tactical team serves to assist the team and provide them with clinical information and assessments consistent with the nurse's training and experience. This nurse does not negotiate with the perpetrator or direct actions of police officers. Assistance can include assessing the perpetrator, assisting the freed hostages, educating police officers on mental health-related topics, assessing the stress level of the negotiator, suggesting techniques that might be appropriate (particularly when the perpetrator is mentally ill), and serving as a go-between with local mental health agencies.

A patient has talked constantly throughout the group therapy session, often repeating the same comments. Other members were initially attentive then became bored, inattentive, and finally sullen. Which comment by the nurse leader would be most effective? A. Say to everyone, "Most of you have become quiet. I wonder if it might be related to concerns you may have about how the group is progressing today." B. Say to everyone, "One person has done most of the talking. I think it would be helpful for everyone to say how that has affected your experience of the group." C. Say to everyone, "I noticed that as our group progressed, most members became quiet, then disinterested, and now seem almost angry. What is going on?" D. Say to the talkative patient, "You have been doing most of the talking, and others have not had a chance to speak as a result. Could you please yield to others now?"

A. The most effective action the nurse leader can take will be the one that encourages the group to solve its own problem. Pointing out changes in the group and asking members to respond to them lays the foundation for a discussion of group dynamics. Asking members to respond to the talkative patient puts that patient in an awkward position, likely increasing her anxiety. As anxiety increases, monopolizing behavior tends to increase as well, so this response would be self-defeating. Asking members what is going on is a broader opening and might lead to responses unrelated to the issue that bears addressing; narrowing the focus to the group process more directly addresses what is occurring in the group. Focusing on the talkative patient would be less effective and involves the leader addressing the issue instead of members first attempting to do so themselves (giving them a chance to practice skills such as assertive communication).

A patient comes to the crisis clinic after an unexpected job termination. The patient paces, sobs, cringes when approached, and responds to questions with only shrugs or monosyllables. Choose the nurse's best initial comment to this patient. A. "Everything is going to be all right. You are here at the clinic and the staff will keep you safe." B. "I see you are feeling upset. I'm going to stay and talk with you to help you feel better." C. "You need to try to stop crying and pacing so we can talk about your problems." D. "Let's set some guidelines and goals for your visit here."

B A crisis exists for this patient. The two primary thrusts of crisis intervention are to provide for the safety of the individual and use anxiety-reduction techniques to facilitate use of inner resources. The nurse offers therapeutic presence, which provides caring, ongoing observation relative to the patient's safety, and interpersonal reassurance.

Which type of group is a staff nurse with 2 months' psychiatric experience best qualified to conduct? a. Psychodynamic/psychoanalytic group b. Medication education group c. Existential/Gestalt group d. Family therapy group

B All nurses receive information about patient teaching strategies and basic information about psychotropic medications, making a medication education group a logical group for a beginner to conduct. The other groups would need a leader with more education and experience.

The highest degree of credibility is required by a nurse who provides testimony before the Court as a(n) a. fact witness. b. expert witness. c. correctional nurse. d. critical care nurse.

B An expert witness is recognized by the Court as having a higher level of skill or expertise in a specific area. In addition to testifying about involvement with the individual and documentation of the interactions, an expert witness is permitted by the Court to give a professional opinion. A fact witness may testify only regarding what was seen, heard, performed, or documented regarding first-hand nursing care. Correctional and critical care nurses may testify as fact witnesses.

During a support group, a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "Sometimes I feel sad that I will never have a good job like my brother. Then I dwell on it and maybe I should not." Select the nurse leader's best comment to facilitate discussion of this issue.a. "It is often better to focus on our successes rather than our failures." b. "How have others in the group handled painful feelings like these?" c. "Grieving for what is lost is a normal part of having a mental disorder." d. "I wonder if you might also experience feelings of anger and helplessness."

B Asking others to share their experiences will facilitate discussion of an issue. Giving information may serve to close discussion of the issue because it sounds final. Suggesting a focus on the positives implies a discussion of the issue is not appropriate. Suggesting other possible feelings is inappropriate at this point, considering the patient has identified feelings of sadness and seems to have a desire to explore this feeling. Focusing on other feelings will derail discussion of the patient's grief for his perceived lost potential.

During arraignment, a defendant behaves bizarrely, fails to respond to the judge's questions, and shouts obscenities. The judge orders an evaluation by a forensic nurse examiner. Which information provided by the examiner will be most important to the Court at this time? a. The defendant's mental state at the time of the crime b. The defendant's competence to proceed with trial c. The cause of the defendant's courtroom behavior d. The defendant's history and cognitive abilities

B Competence to proceed refers to one's capacity to assist the attorney and understand legal proceedings. In the United States, no one is tried unless deemed competent. An incompetent individual is remanded to a locked facility for treatment to regain competency. The Court will desire a full assessment of the patient's present mental state related to his ability to assist in his own defense, but at this time, the Court is not interested in his state of mind at the time of the original crime nor his history.

Health problems most commonly encountered by correctional nurses are a. routine infections and minor trauma. b. chronic medical and psychiatric disorders. c. similar to the non-incarcerated population. d. injuries acquired during arrest or incarceration.

B Correctional nurses provide care for inmates who have disproportionately high rates of mental illness, substance abuse, tuberculosis, AIDS, hepatitis, diabetes, and other chronic disorders and infections. The health problems of inmates are more complex and chronic, not similar to their non-incarcerated peers. Trauma is an important issue that affects inmate health, but it is not the primary health issue for this population as a whole.

A 15-year-old was placed in a residential program after truancy, running away, and an arrest for theft. At the program, the adolescent refused to join in planned activities and pushed a staff member, causing a fall. Which approach by nursing staff will be most therapeutic? a. Planned ignoring b. Establish firm limits c. Neutrally permit refusals d. Coaxing to gain compliance

B Firm limits are necessary to ensure physical safety and emotional security. Limit setting will also protect other patients from the teen's thoughtless or aggressive behavior. Permitting refusals to participate in the treatment plan, ignoring, coaxing, and bargaining are strategies that do not help the patient learn to abide by rules or structure.

Which statement by a depressed patient will alert the nurse to the patient's need for immediate, active intervention? a. "I am mixed up, but I know I need help." b. "I have no one to turn to for help or support." c. "It is worse when you are a person of color." d. "I tried to get attention before I cut myself last time."

B Hopelessness is evident. Lack of social support and social isolation increases the suicide risk. Willingness to seek help lowers risk. Being a person of color does not suggest higher risk because more whites commit suicide than do individuals of other racial groups. Attention seeking is not correlated with higher suicide risk.

A large group of inmates are in line up at the prison clinic window for medication administration. One inmate near the end of the line calls out to the nurse using slang terms about the nurse's sexuality. What is the nurse's best action? a. Call for a guard to place the offending inmate in seclusion. b. Ignore the comment and continue medication administration. c. Ask the other inmates, "What do you think about those comments?" d. Postpone the current medication administration until later in the day.

B It is important for the nurse to be mindful of characteristics of the incarcerated population and not react personally to the comments. The nurse is safe; therefore, it is unnecessary to respond to the comments. The nurse has an obligation to provide care, which includes medication administration. Exploring the thoughts of other inmates may precipitate further problems. Seclusion is a last resort. The offending inmate's comments do not justify use of seclusion.

A child known as the neighborhood bully says, "Nobody can tell me what to do." After receiving a poor grade on a science project, this child secretly loaded a virus on the teacher's computer. These behaviors support a diagnosis of a. CD. b. ODD. c. intermittent explosive disorder. d. ADHD.

B ODD is a repeated and persistent pattern of having an angry and irritable mood in conjunction with demonstrating defiant and vindictive behavior. Loading a virus is a vindictive behavior in retribution for a poor grade. Persons with CD are aggressive against people and animals; destroy property; are deceitful; violate rules; and have impaired social, academic, or occupational functioning. There is no evidence of explosiveness or distractibility.

Which situation demonstrates use of primary intervention related to crisis? a. Implementation of suicide precautions for a depressed patient b. Teaching stress-reduction techniques to a first-year college student c. Assessing coping strategies used by a patient who attempted suicide d. Referring a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia to a partial hospitalization program

B Primary care-related crisis intervention promotes mental health and reduces mental illness. The incorrect options are examples of secondary or tertiary interventions.

An adult outpatient diagnosed with major depressive disorder has a history of several suicide attempts by overdose. Given this patient's history and diagnosis, which antidepressant medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed? a. Amitriptyline b. Fluoxetine c. Desipramine d. Tranylcypromine sulfate

B Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants are very safe in overdosage situations, which is not true of the other medications listed. Given this patient's history of overdosing, it is important that the medication be as safe as possible in the event of another overdose of prescribed medication.

A patient previously hospitalized for 2 weeks committed suicide the day after discharge. Which initial nursing measure will be most important regarding this event? A. Request the information technology manager to verify the patient's medical record is secure in the hospital information system. B. Hold a meeting for staff to provide support, express feelings, and identify overlooked clues or faulty judgments. C. Consult the hospital's legal department regarding potential consequences of the event. D. Document a report of a sentinel event in the patient's medical record.

B Support and an opportunity for staff to safely express feelings about the event should occur first. Interventions should help the staff come to terms with the loss and grow because of the incident. Identifying overlooked clues or faulty judgments will provide the groundwork for identifying changes needed in policies and procedures for future patients. Consulting the legal department is not an initial measure. A sentinel event report is not part of the medical record and can be prepared later. The other incorrect options will not control information or would result in unsafe care.

Six months ago, a woman had a prophylactic double mastectomy because of a family history of breast cancer. One week ago, this woman learned her husband was involved in an extramarital affair. The woman says tearfully, "What else can happen?" If the woman's immediate family is unable to provide sufficient support, the nurse should a. suggest hospitalization for a short period. b. ask what other relatives or friends are available for support. c. tell the patient, "You are a strong person. You can get through this crisis." d. foster insight by relating the present situation to earlier situations involving loss.

B The assessment of situational supports should continue. Even though the patient's nuclear family may not be supportive, other situational supports may be available. If they are adequate, admission to an inpatient unit will be unnecessary. Psychotherapy is not appropriate for crisis intervention. Advice is usually nontherapeutic.

A child reports to the school nurse of being verbally bullied by an aggressive classmate. What is the nurse's best first action? a. Give notice to the chief administrator at the school regarding the events. b. Encourage the victimized child to share feelings about the experience. c. Encourage the victimized child to ignore the bullying behavior. d. Discuss the events with the aggressive classmate.

B The behaviors by the bullying child create emotional pain and present the risk for physical pain. Encouraging the victimized child to share feelings about the experience provides the nurse an opportunity to further assess the situation as well as provide support to the child. The nurse should validate the child for reporting the events. Later, school authorities should be notified. School administrators are the most appropriate personnel to deal with the bullying child. The behavior should not be ignored; it will only get worse

The nurse is planning a new sexuality group for patients. Which location would best enhance the effectiveness of this group? a. The hospital auditorium b. A small conference room c. A common area, such as a day room d. The corner of the music therapy room

B The conference room would provide a quiet, private area with few distractions, separate from other patient areas and effective for teaching and learning about a private topic. The auditorium is too large, and members' anxiety or lack of trust might lead them to spread out too far from each other, interfering with group process. The day room and the music therapy room are too busy and exposed, reducing privacy and increasing distractions.

During a therapy group that uses existential/Gestalt theory, patients shared feelings that occurred at the time of their admission. After a brief silence, one member says, "Several people have described feeling angry. I would like to hear from members who had other feelings." Which group role is evident by this comment? a. Energizer b. Encourager c. Compromiser d. Self-confessor

B The member is filling the role of encourager by acknowledging those who have contributed and encouraging input from others. An energizer encourages the group to make decisions or take an action. The compromiser focuses on reducing or resolving conflict to preserve harmony. A self-confessor verbalizes feelings or observations unrelated to the group.

Select the most critical question for the nurse to ask an adolescent who has threatened to take an overdose of pills. a. "Why do you want to kill yourself?" b. "Do you have access to medications?" c. "Have you been taking drugs and alcohol?" d. "Did something happen with your parents?"

B The nurse must assess the patient's access to means to carry out the plan and, if there is access, alert the parents to remove from the home and take additional actions to assure the patient's safety. The information in the other questions may be important to ask but are not the most critical.

Which communication technique will the nurse use more in crisis intervention than traditional counseling? a. Role modeling b. Giving direction c. Information giving d. Empathic listening

B The nurse working in crisis intervention must be creative and flexible in looking at the patient's situation and suggesting possible solutions to the patient. Giving direction is part of the active role a crisis intervention therapist takes. The other options are used equally in crisis intervention and traditional counseling roles.

An adult comes to the crisis clinic after termination from a job of 15 years. The patient says, "I don't know what to do. How can I get another job? Who will pay the bills? How will I feed my family?" Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Hopelessness b. Powerlessness c. Chronic low self-esteem d. Interrupted family processes

B The patient describes feelings of lack of control over life events. No direct mention is made of hopelessness or chronic low self-esteem. The patient's family processes are not interrupted at this point.

A patient in a detoxification unit asks, "What good it will do to go to Alcoholics Anonymous and talk to other people with the same problem?" The nurse's best response would be to explain that self-help groups such as AA provide opportunities for a. newly discharged alcoholics to learn about the disease of alcoholism. b. people with common problems to share their experiences with alcoholism and recovery. c. patients with alcoholism to receive insight-oriented treatment about the etiology of their disease. d. professional counselors to provide guidance to individuals recovering from alcoholism.

B The patient needs basic information about the purpose of a self-help group. The basis of self-help groups is sharing by individuals with similar problems. Self-help is based on the belief that an individual with a problem can be truly understood and helped only by others who have the same problem. The other options fail to address this or provide incorrect information.

2. A team of nurses report to the community after a category 5 hurricane devastates many homes and businesses. The nurses provide emergency supplies of insulin to persons with diabetes and help transfer patients in skilled nursing facilities to sites that have electrical power. Which aspects of disaster management have these nurses fulfilled? (Select all that apply.) a. Preparedness b. Mitigation c. Response d. Recovery e. Evaluation

B,C This community has experienced a catastrophic event. There are five phases of the disaster management continuum. The nurses' activities applied to mitigation (attempts to limit a disaster's impact on human health and community function) and response (actual implementation of a disaster plan). Preparedness occurs before an event. Recovery actions focus on stabilizing the community and returning it to its previous status. Evaluation of the response efforts apply to the future.

At the time of a home visit, the nurse notices that each parent and child in a family has his or her own personal online communication device. Each member of the family is in a different area of the home. Which nursing actions are appropriate? (Select all that apply.) a. Report the finding to the official child protection social services agency. b. Educate all members of the family about potential safety risks in online environments. c. Talk with the parents about parental controls on the children's communication devices. d. Encourage the family to schedule daily time together without communication devices. e. Obtain the family's network password and examine online sites family members have visited.

B,C,D The nurse's focus is safety, including online environments. Education and awareness-based approaches are indicated to reduce the risks of potentially harmful behavior, including risks associated with cyberbullying. Parental controls on the children's devices will support safe Internet use. Family time together will promote healthy bonding and a sense of security among members. There is no evidence of danger to the children, so a report to child protective agency is unnecessary. It would be inappropriate to seek the family's network password and an invasion of privacy to inspect sites family members have visited.

The next-to-last meeting of an interpersonal therapy group is taking place. The leader should take which actions? (Select all that apply.) a. Support appropriate expressions of disagreement by the group's members. b. Facilitate discussion and resolution of feelings about the end of the group. c. Encourage members to reflect on their progress and that of the group itself. d. Remind members of the group's norms and rules, emphasizing confidentiality. e. Help members identify goals they would like to accomplish after the group ends. f. Promote the identification and development of new options for solving problems.

B,C,E The goals for the termination phase of groups are to prepare the group for separation, resolve related feelings, and prepare each member for the future. Contributions and accomplishments of members are elicited, post-group goals are identified, and feelings about the group's ending are discussed. Group norms are the focus of the orientation phase, and conflict and problem solving are emphasized in the working phase.

A nurse works with an adolescent who was placed in a residential program after multiple episodes of violence at school. Establishing rapport with this adolescent is a priority because (Select all that apply) a. it is a vital component of implementing a behavior modification program. b. a therapeutic alliance is the first step in a nurse's therapeutic use of self. c. the adolescent has demonstrated resistance to other authority figures d. acceptance and trust convey feelings of security for the adolescent. e. adolescents usually relate better to authority figures than peers.

B,D Trust is frequently an issue because the adolescent may never have had a trusting relationship with an adult. Trust promotes feelings of security and is the basis of the nurse's therapeutic use of self. Adolescents value peer relationships over those related to authority. Rewards for appropriate behavior are the main component of behavior modification programs.

A nurse prepares to lead a discussion at a community health center regarding children's health problems. The nurse wants to use current terminology when discussing these issues. Which terms are appropriate for the nurse to use? (Select all that apply.) a. Autism b. Bullying c. Mental retardation d. Autism spectrum disorder e. Intellectual development disorder

B,D,E Some dated terminology contributes to the stigma of mental illness and misconceptions about mental illness. It is important for the nurse to use current terminology.

What are the primary distinguishing factors between the behavior of persons diagnosed with ODD and those with CD? The person diagnosed with (Select all that apply) a. ODD relives traumatic events by acting them out. b. ODD tests limits and disobeys authority figures. c. ODD has difficulty separating from loved ones. d. CD uses stereotypical or repetitive language. e. CD often violates the rights of others.

B,E Persons diagnosed with ODD are negativistic, disobedient, and defiant toward authority figures without seriously violating the basic rights of others, whereas persons with CD frequently behave in ways that do violate the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms. Reliving traumatic events occurs with PTSD. Stereotypical language behaviors are seen in persons with autism spectrum disorders.

A leader begins the discussion at the first meeting of a new group. Which comments should be included? (Select all that apply.) A. "We use groups to provide treatment because it's a more cost-effective use of staff in this time of budget constraints." B. "When someone shares a personal experience, it's important to keep the information confidential." C. "Talking to family members about our group discussions will help us achieve our goals." D. "Everyone is expected to share a personal experience at each group meeting." E. "It is important for everyone to arrive on time for our group."

B,E The leader must set ground rules for the group before members can effectively participate. Confidentiality of personal experiences should be maintained. Arriving on time is important to the group process. Talking to family members would jeopardize confidentiality. While groups are cost-effective, blaming the budget would not help members feel valued. Setting an expectation to share may be intimidating for a withdrawn patient.

An adolescent diagnosed with a CD stole and wrecked a neighbor's motorcycle. Afterward, the adolescent was confronted about the behavior but expressed no remorse. Which variation in the central nervous system best explains the adolescent's reaction? A. Serotonin dysregulation and increased testosterone activity impair one's capacity for remorse. B. Increased neuron destruction in the hippocampus results in decreased abilities to conform to social rules. C. Reduced gray matter in the cortex and dysfunction of the amygdala results in decreased feelings of empathy. D. Disturbances in the occipital lobe reduce sensations that help an individual clearly visualize the consequences of behavior.

C Adolescents with CD have been found to have significantly reduced gray matter bilaterally in the anterior insulate cortex and the amygdala. This reduction may be related to aggressive behavior and deficits of empathy. The less gray matter in these regions of the brain, the less likely adolescents are to feel remorse for their actions or victims. People with intermittent explosive disorder may have differences in serotonin regulation in the brain and higher levels of testosterone. Neuron destruction in the hippocampus is associated with memory deficits. The occipital lobe is involved with visual stimuli but not the processing of emotions.

A nurse will prepare teaching materials for the parents of a child newly diagnosed with ADHD. Information will focus on which medication likely to be prescribed? a. Paroxetine b. Imipramine c. Methylphenidate d. Carbamazepine

C Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants are the drugs of choice for treating children diagnosed with ADHD. Methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts are most commonly used. None of the other drugs are psychostimulants used to treat ADHD.

Shortly after the parents announced that they were divorcing, a 15-year-old became truant from school and assaulted a friend. The adolescent told the school nurse, "I'd rather stay in my room and listen to music. It's easier than thinking about what is happening in my family." Which nursing diagnosis is most applicable? a. Chronic low self-esteem related to role within the family b. Decisional conflict related to compliance with school requirements c. Defensive coping related to adjustment to changes in family relationships d. Disturbed personal identity related to self-perceptions of changing family dynamics

C Depression is often associated with impulse control disorder. The correct nursing diagnosis refers to the patient's dysfunctional management of feelings associated with upcoming changes to the family. The teen displays self-imposed isolation. The distracters are not supported by data in the scenario.

A college student who failed two tests cried for hours and then tried to telephone a parent but got no answer. The student then gave several expensive sweaters to a roommate and asked to be left alone for a few hours. Which behavior provides the strongest clue of an impending suicide attempt? a. Calling parents b. Excessive crying c. Giving away sweaters d. Staying alone in dorm room

C Giving away prized possessions may signal that the individual thinks he or she will have no further need for the item, such as when a suicide plan has been formulated. Calling parents, remaining in a dorm, and crying do not provide direct clues to suicide.

Which behavior indicates that the treatment plan for a child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder was effective? The child a. plays with one toy for 30 minutes. b. repeats words spoken by a parent. c. holds the parent's hand while walking. d. spins around and claps hands while walking.

C Holding the hand of another person suggests relatedness. Usually, a child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder would resist holding someone's hand and stand or walk alone, perhaps flapping arms or moving in a stereotyped pattern. The incorrect options reflect behaviors that are consistent with autism spectrum disorders.

When assessing a patient's plan for suicide, what aspect has priority? a. Patient's financial and educational status b. Patient's insight into suicidal motivation c. Availability of means and lethality of method d. Quality and availability of patient's social support

C If a person has plans that include choosing a method of suicide readily available and if the method is one that is lethal (i.e., will cause the person to die with little probability for intervention), the suicide risk is high. These areas provide a better indication of risk than the areas mentioned in the other options. See relationship to audience response question.

As a nurse in the prison clinic changes the dressing on an inmate's wound, the inmate says, "You know I never did anything, right? I am totally innocent any crime." Select the nurse's best response. a. "I hear that same comment from most of the inmates here." b. "Whether you are innocent or guilty is of no concern to me." c. "Your innocence or guilt is the Court's decision, not my decision." d. "I trust you to tell me the truth. I will document your comments in your medical record."

C It is not the role of the forensic nurse to make a decision as to guilt or innocence or whether a victim is being candid in reporting what happened not. The correct response asserts this information, along with where the responsibility lies. In this interaction, it is irrelevant what other inmates say. The nurse should be compassionate rather than dismissive. It is important to remember that in forensic nursing, the nurse-patient relationship occurs based on the possibility that a crime has been committed.

A psychiatric forensic nurse examiner was asked by a defendant's attorney to determine the defendant's legal sanity. What is the priority task of the nurse examiner? A. Determine if the defendant understands the charges and can assist the attorney with the defense. B. Complete a risk assessment to determine if the defendant is a danger to self or others. C. Reconstruct the defendant's mental state and motives at the time of the crime. D. Collect and compile evidence to determine whether a crime occurred.

C Legal sanity is determined for the specific time of the alleged crime, so reconstructing the defendant's mental state, motivation, thinking, and other elements of functioning at the time of the alleged crime is essential to making the determination. The defendant's ability to understand the charges and assist in his defense is pertinent to an evaluation of competency. Unless the Court has specifically asked for a risk assessment (which would be unusual), the risk assessment is the responsibility of clinical staff caring for the patient, not the forensic nurse examiner. Police collect evidence about the crime, and the prosecutor compiles it. A forensic nurse examiner does not participate in evidence collection other than that related to the assessment of the patient's state of mind at the time of the alleged crime.

A group is in the working phase. One member states, "That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Everyone whines and tells everyone else what to do. This group is a waste of my time." Which initial action by the group leader would be most therapeutic? A. Advise the member that hostility is inappropriate. Remove the member if it continues. B. Keep the group's focus on this member so the person can express the anger. C. Meet privately with the member outside of group to discuss the anger. D. Change to a more positive topic of discussion in this group session.

C Meeting privately with the member can convey interest and help defuse the anger so that it is less disruptive to the group. Removing the member would be a last resort and used only when the behavior is intolerably disruptive to the group process and all other interventions have failed. Decreasing the focus on the hostile member and focusing more on positive members can help soften the anger. Angry members often hide considerable vulnerability by using anger to keep others at a distance and intimidated. Changing the subject fails to respond to the behavior.

An inmate was diagnosed with PTSD caused by severe sexual abuse. One day this inmate sees a person with similar characteristics to the perpetrator, has a flashback, and then attacks the person. Correctional officers place the inmate in restraint. Which action by the correctional nurse is most appropriate? A. Plan to meet with the inmate for debriefing after release from the required period of restraint. B. Support use of restraints as needed to control violent outbursts and assure the safety of all inmates. C. Contact a supervisor authorized to make an exception to the restraint policy and explain why an alternate response is needed. D. Confront the correctional officers who initiated the restraint, explain the inappropriateness of this action, and request the inmate's release.

C Nurses have advocacy responsibilities, regardless of the setting. The optimum outcome in this situation would be to minimize the duration of the restraint episode. The inmate and others are at risk of injury until the inmate is calm. The restraints will likely worsen and extend the inmate's distress and agitation. Supporting the use of restraints ignores the need of select inmates for alternate responses that do not paradoxically worsen the situation instead of help it. Meeting with the patient to calm her after her release would be the second most helpful response, but it does not shorten the duration of the patient's restraint. Confronting the officers is unlikely to be successful, since they are following proper procedures; accusing them of improper actions will likely increase defensiveness rather than expedite the inmate's release from restraint.

An adolescent acts out in disruptive ways. When this adolescent threatens to throw a heavy pool ball at another adolescent, which comment by the nurse would set appropriate limits? a. "Attention everyone: we are all going to the craft room." b. "You will be taken to seclusion if you throw that ball." c. "Do not throw the ball. Put it back on the pool table." d. "Please do not lose control of your emotions."

C Setting limits uses clear, sharp statements about prohibited behavior and guidance for performing a behavior that is expected. The incorrect options represent a threat, use of restructuring (which would be inappropriate in this instance), and a direct appeal to the child's developing self-control that may be ineffective.

Six months ago, a woman had a prophylactic double mastectomy because of a family history of breast cancer. One week ago, this woman learned her husband was involved in an extramarital affair. The woman tearfully says to the nurse, "What else can happen?" What type of crisis is this person experiencing? a. Maturational b. Mitigation c. Situational d. Recurring

C Severe physical or mental illness is a potential cause of a situational crisis. The potential loss of a loved one also serves as a potential cause of a situational crisis. Maturational crisis occurs as an individual arrives at a new stage of development, when old coping styles may be ineffective. No classification of recurring crisis exists. Mitigation refers to attempts to limit a disaster's impact on human health and community function.

Which intervention will the nurse recommend for the distressed family and friends of someone who has committed suicide? a. Participating in reminiscence therapy b. Psychological postmortem assessment c. Attending a self-help group for survivors d. Contracting for at least two sessions of group therapy

C Survivors need outlets for their feelings about the loss and the deceased person. Self-help groups provide peer support while survivors work through feelings of loss, anger, and guilt. Psychological postmortem assessment would not provide the support necessary to work through feelings of loss associated with the suicide. Reminiscence therapy is not geared to loss resolution. Contracting for two sessions of group therapy would not provide sufficient time to work through the issues associated with a death by suicide.

At the last contracted visit in the crisis intervention clinic, an adult says, "I've emerged from this a stronger person. You helped me get my life back in balance." The nurse responds, "I think we should have two more sessions to explore why your reactions were so intense." Which analysis applies? a. The patient is experiencing transference. b. The patient demonstrates need for continuing support. c. The nurse is having difficulty terminating the relationship. d. The nurse is empathizing with the patient's feelings of dependency.

C Termination is indicated; however, the nurse's remark is clearly an invitation to work on other problems and prolong contact with the patient. The focus of crisis intervention is the problem that precipitated the crisis, not other issues. The scenario does not describe transference. The patient shows no need for continuing support. The scenario does not describe dependency needs.

An 11-year-old diagnosed with ODD becomes angry over the rules at a residential treatment program and begins cursing at the nurse. Select the best method for the nurse to defuse the situation. a. Ignore the child's behavior. b. Send the child to time-out for 2 hours. c. Take the child to the gym and engage in an activity. d. Role-play a more appropriate behavior with the child.

C The child's behavior warrants an active response. Redirecting the expression of feelings into nondestructive age-appropriate behaviors, such as a physical activity, helps defuse the situation here and now. This response helps the child learn how to modulate the expression of feelings and exert self-control. This is the least restrictive alternative and should be tried before resorting to a more restrictive measure. Role playing is appropriate after the child's anger is defused.

A nurse and patient construct a no-suicide contract. Select the preferable wording. a. "I will not try to harm myself during the next 24 hours." b. "I will not make a suicide attempt while I am hospitalized." c. "For the next 24 hours, I will not in any way attempt to harm or kill myself." d. "I will not kill myself until I call my primary nurse or a member of the staff."

C The correct answer leaves no loopholes. The wording about not harming oneself and not making an attempt leaves loopholes or can be ignored by the patient who thinks "I am not going to harm myself, I am going to kill myself" or "I am not going to attempt suicide, I am going to commit suicide." A patient may call a therapist and leave the telephone to carry out the suicidal plan.

A nurse interacts with an outpatient who has a history of multiple suicide attempts. Select the most helpful response for a nurse to make when the patient states, "I am considering committing suicide."a. "I'm glad you shared this. Please do not worry. We will handle it together." b. "I think you should admit yourself to the hospital to keep you safe." c. "Bringing up these feelings is a very positive action on your part." d. "We need to talk about the good things you have to live for"

C The correct response gives the patient reinforcement, recognition, and validation for making a positive response rather than acting out the suicidal impulse. It gives neither advice nor false reassurance, and it does not imply stereotypes such as "You have a lot to live for." It uses the patient's ambivalence and sets the stage for more realistic problem solving.

A child diagnosed with ADHD shows hyperactivity, aggression, and impaired play. The health care provider prescribed amphetamine salts (Adderall). The nurse should monitor for which desired behavior? a. Increased expressiveness in communication with others b. Abilities to identify anxiety and implement self-control strategies c. Improved abilities to participate in cooperative play with other children d. Tolerates social interactions for short periods without disruption or frustration

C The goal is improvement in the child's hyperactivity, aggression, and play. The remaining options are more relevant for a child with intellectual development disorder or an anxiety disorder.

A group is in the working phase. One member says, "That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Everyone whines and tells everyone else what to do. This group is a total waste of my time." Which comment by the group leader would be most therapeutic? A. "You seem to think you know a lot already. Since you know so much, perhaps you can tell everyone why you are back in the hospital?" B. "I think you have made your views clear, but I wonder if others feel the same way. How does everyone else feel about our group?" C. "It must be hard to be so angry." Direct this comment to another group member, "You were also angry at first but not now. What has helped you?" D. "I would like to remind you that one of our group rules is that everyone is to offer only positive responses to the comments of others."

C The member's comments demean the group and its members and suggest that the member is very angry. Labeling the emotion and conveying empathy would be therapeutic. Focusing on members who are likely to be more positive can balance the influence of demoralizing members. "You seem to know a lot ..." conveys hostility from the leader, who confronts and challenges the member to explain how he came to be readmitted if he was so knowledgeable, implying that he is less knowledgeable than he claims. This comment suggests countertransference and is non-therapeutic. Shifting away from the complaining member to see if others agree seeks to have others express disagreement with this member, but that might not happen. In the face of his anger, they might be quiet or afraid to oppose him, or they could respond in kind by expressing hostility themselves. A rule that only positive exchanges are permitted would suppress conflict, reducing the effectiveness of the therapy group.

What is the nurse's priority focused assessment for side effects in a child taking methylphenidate for ADHD?a. Dystonia, akinesia, and extrapyramidal symptoms b. Bradycardia and hypotensive episodes c. Sleep disturbances and weight loss d. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

C The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances, reduced appetite, weight loss, urinary retention, dizziness, fatigue, and insomnia. Weight loss has the potential to interfere with the child's growth and development. The distracters relate to side effects of conventional antipsychotic medications.

A nurse at the well child clinic realizes that many parents have misconceptions about effective ways of disciplining their children. The nurse decides to form a group to address this problem. What should be the focus of the group? a. Support b. Socialization c. Health education d. Symptom management

C The nurse has diagnosed a knowledge deficit. The focus of the group should be education. Support and socialization are beneficial but should not be the primary focus of the group, and symptoms are not identified for intervention here.

An adolescent was recently diagnosed with ODD. The parents say to the nurse, "Isn't there some medication that will help with this problem?" Select the nurse's best response. a. "There are no medications to treat this problem. This diagnosis is behavioral in nature." B. "It's a common misconception that there is a medication available to treat every health problem." C. "Medication is usually not prescribed for this problem. Let's discuss some behavioral strategies you can use." D. "There are many medications that will help your child manage aggression and destructiveness. The health care provider will discuss them with you."

C The parents are seeking a quick solution. Medications are generally not indicated for ODD. Comorbid conditions that increase defiant symptoms, such as ADHD, should be managed with medication, but no comorbid problem is identified in the question. The nurse should give information on helpful strategies to manage the adolescent's behavior.

An adolescent was arrested for prostitution and assault on a parent. The adolescent says, "I hate my parents. They focus all attention on my brother, who's perfect in their eyes." Which nursing diagnosis is most applicable? a. Disturbed personal identity related to acting out as evidenced by prostitution b. Hopelessness related to achievement of role identity as evidenced by feeling unloved by parents c. Defensive coping related to inappropriate methods of seeking parental attention as evidenced by acting out d. Impaired parenting related to inequitable feelings toward children as evidenced by showing preference for one child over another

C The patient demonstrates a failure to follow age-appropriate social norms and an inability to problem solve by using adaptive behaviors to meet life's demands and roles. The defining characteristics are not present for the other nursing diagnoses. The patient never mentioned hopelessness or disturbed personal identity. The problem relates to the patient's perceptions of parental behavior rather than the actual behavior.

Assessment data for a 7-year-old reveals an inability to take turns, blurting out answers to questions before a question is complete, and frequently interrupting others' conversations. How should the nurse document these behaviors? a. Disobedience b. Hyperactivity c. Impulsivity d. Anxiety

C These behaviors are most directly related to impulsivity. Hyperactive behaviors are more physical in nature, such as running, pushing, and the inability to sit. Inattention is demonstrated by failure to listen. Defiance is demonstrated by willfully doing what an authority figure has said not to do.

A person intentionally overdosed on antidepressants. Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority? a. Powerlessness b. Social isolation c. Risk for suicide d. Compromised family coping

C This diagnosis is the only one with life-or-death ramifications and is therefore of higher priority than the other options.

A tearful, anxious patient at the outpatient clinic reports, "I should be dead." The initial task of the nurse conducting the assessment interview is to a. assess lethality of suicide plan. b. encourage expression of anger. c. establish trust with the patient. d. determine risk factors for suicide.

C This scenario presents a potential crisis. Establishing trust facilitates a therapeutic alliance that will allow the nurse to obtain relevant assessment data such as the presence of a suicide plan, lethality of plan, and presence of risk factors for suicide.

The parent of a child diagnosed with Tourette's disorder says to the nurse, "I think my child is faking the tics because they come and go." Which response by the nurse is accurate? a. "Perhaps your child was misdiagnosed." b. "Your observation indicates the medication is effective." c. "Tics often change frequency or severity. That doesn't mean they aren't real." d. "This finding is unexpected. How have you been administering your child's medication?"

C Tics are sudden, rapid, involuntary, repetitive movements or vocalizations characteristic of Tourette's disorder. They often fluctuate in frequency, severity, and are reduced or absent during sleep.

When a 5-year-old is disruptive, the nurse says, "You must take a time-out." The expectation is that the child will a. go to a quiet room until called for the next activity. b. slowly count to 20 before returning to the group activity. c. sit on the edge of the activity until able to regain self-control. d. sit quietly on the lap of a staff member until able to apologize for the behavior.

C Time-out is designed so that staff can be consistent in their interventions. Time-out may require going to a designated room or sitting on the periphery of an activity until the child gains self-control and reviews the episode with a staff member. Time-out may not require going to a designated room and does not involve special attention such as holding. Counting to 10 or 20 is not sufficient.

A person diagnosed with bipolar disorder ran out of money, did not refill a lithium prescription, and then relapsed. After assaulting several people in the community, this person was convicted and sentenced. Prior to parole, which outcome has priority for the correctional nurse to achieve? The person a. agrees in writing to continue lithium therapy. b. is reestablished on an appropriate dose of lithium. c. lists community resources for prescription assistance. d. agrees to a follow-up appointment in an outpatient clinic.

C To increase medication adherence, reduce the risk of relapse, and prevent further criminal activity due to mental illness, the person's awareness of community resources for medication refills and medication-related services is the most important outcome. Agreeing to take lithium, being reestablished on medication in the jail, and agreeing to follow-up mental health care are important, but none of these will address the primary reason for the criminal behavior: the relapse caused by inability to access medication in the community.

Which statement about the practice of correctional nursing is accurate? A. Because the majority of inmates are younger than 40 years of age, most have lower rates of chronic illnesses than the general population. B. Correctional nurses work primarily with medically ill persons rather than persons with psychiatric or substance abuse disorders. C. More persons diagnosed with mental illness receive treatment services in prisons than in inpatient psychiatric facilities. D. Correctional nurses commonly provide holistic and comprehensive care for the incarcerated population.

C When compared to the rates in the general population (11% of whom have a mental health problem, with approximately 55,000 individuals hospitalized at an inpatient psychiatric hospital on any given day), correctional facilities carry a disproportionate share of the burden for the provision of mental health services. Rates of chronic illness are higher among inmates than in the general population due to factors such as higher rates of poverty, lower educational status, higher rates of trauma, institutional living when incarcerated, reduced access to health care, poor health habits, and higher rates of high-risk behaviors such as IV drug abuse. Correctional settings provide adequate care of inmates, but it is rarely holistic or comprehensive.

A nurse prepares the plan of care for a 15-year-old diagnosed with moderate intellectual developmental disorder. What are the highest outcomes that are realistic for this patient? Within 5 years, the patient will (Select all that apply) a. graduate from high school. b. live independently in an apartment. c. independently perform own personal hygiene.d. obtain employment in a local sheltered workshop. e. correctly use public buses to travel in the community.

C,D,E Individuals with moderate intellectual developmental disorder progress academically to about the second grade. These people can learn to travel in familiar areas and perform unskilled or semiskilled work. With supervision, the person can function in the community, but independent living is not likely.

During a group therapy session, a newly admitted patient suddenly says to the nurse, "How old are you? You seem too young to be leading a group." Select the nurse's most appropriate response. a. "I am wondering what leads you to ask. Please tell me more." b. "I am old enough to be a nurse, which qualifies me to lead this group." c. "My age is not pertinent to why we are here and should not concern you." d. "You are wondering whether I have enough experience to lead this group?"

D A question such as this is common in the initial phase of group development when members are getting to know one another, dealing with trust issues, and testing the leader. Making explicit the implied serves to role model more effective communication and prompts further discussion of the patient's concern. Asking the patient to tell the leader more about the question focuses on the reason for the member's concern rather than on the issue raised (the experience and ability of the leader) and is a less helpful response. "I am old enough to be a nurse" and "age is not pertinent" are defensive responses and fail to address the patient's valid concern.

Which outcome would be most appropriate for a symptom-management group for persons diagnosed with schizophrenia? Group members will a. state the names of their medications. B. resolve conflicts within their families. C. rate anxiety at least two points lower. D. describe ways to cope with their illness.

D An appropriate psychoeducational focus for patients with schizophrenia is managing their symptoms; coping with symptoms such as impaired memory or impaired reality testing can improve functioning and enhance their quality of life. Names of medications might be appropriate for a medication education group but would be a low priority for symptom management. Addressing intra-family issues would be more appropriate within a family therapy group or possibly a support group. Rating anxiety lower would be an expected outcome for a stress-management group.

A nurse assesses a 3-year-old diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Which finding is most associated with the child's disorder? The child a. has occasional toileting accidents b. interrupts or intrudes on others. c. cries when separated from a parent. d. continuously rocks in place for 30 minutes.

D Autism spectrum disorder involves distortions in development of social skills and language that include perception, motor movement, attention, and reality testing. Body rocking for extended periods suggests autism spectrum disorder. Occasional toileting accidents and crying when separated from a parents are expected findings for a 3-year-old. Interrupting or intruding on others are assessment findings associated with ADHD.

A 15-year-old ran away from home six times and was arrested for shoplifting. The parents told the Court, "We can't manage our teenager." The adolescent is physically abusive to the mother and defiant with the father. Which diagnosis is supported by this adolescent's behavior? a. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) b. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) c. Intermittent explosive disorder d. CD

D CDs are manifested by a persistent pattern of behavior in which the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms are violated. Intermittent explosive disorder is a pattern of behavioral outbursts characterized by an inability to control aggressive impulses in adults 18 years and older. Criteria for ADHD and PTSD are not met in the scenario

A nurse assesses a patient for inclusion in group therapy. This patient has a childhood history of neglect and ridicule by parents. The patient says to the nurse, "My boss always expects more of me than the others, but talking to him would only make it worse." Which type of group would best address the patient's needs? a. Support b. Self-Help c. Psychoeducational d. Cognitive-behavioral

D Cognitive-behavioral group therapy focuses on specific maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns. Patients often repeat patterns of behavior in a group that they learned in their families. This type of group will afford the patient an opportunity for a corrective recapitulation of the primary family group. The incorrect answers identify groups appropriate for other types of problems.

A guard tells an inmate diagnosed with schizophrenia to ask the desk officer for a mop and bucket, then get some water from the shower area and mop the kitchen and hall. The inmate does not comply. The guard becomes angry and cancels the inmate's recreation time. Which action by the correctional nurse is most appropriate? a. Document the inmate's response as indicative of resistance and psychopathology. b. Do not intervene. Intervention is not part of a correctional nurse's scope of practice. c. Confer with the prison psychiatrist regarding reevaluation of this inmate's antipsychotic medication regime. d. Explain to the guard that this inmate has difficulty following multiple instructions. Suggest stating one idea at a time.

D Correctional nurses, like most direct-care nurses outside of corrections, have a professional responsibility to advocate for inmates regarding needed care. A psychiatric nurse would have an understanding of schizophrenia and recognize that the inmate's ability to process multistep instructions was impaired. Advocacy for the inmate is evident by educating the guard so he would not misperceive the reason the inmate did not respond. Documentation is needed for all nursing activities. Involving the psychiatrist might be of some value but is at best a passive form of advocacy, and again, as worded here, suggests that the nurse does not understand how schizophrenia contributed to the inmate's not responding to complex instructions.

The psychiatric forensic nurse provides this description of work responsibilities: "I use knowledge of psychopathology as I investigate and reconstruct crimes and then try to understand a criminal's reasoning process. This allows me to compile information on what type of individual would have most likely committed the crime." The work the nurse describes is that of a a. competency therapist. b. hostage negotiator. c. forensic examiner. d. criminal profiler.

D Criminal profilers attempt to provide law enforcement with specific information and the type of individual who would have committed a certain crime. Profilers use behavioral and psychological indicators left at violent crime scenes and apply their understanding of psychopathology, attempt to reconstruct the crime, formulate hypotheses, and develop a profile, which is then tested against known data. The distracters refer to roles the psychiatric forensic nurse may fill, but none of these roles fits the description given in the scenario.

A woman said, "I can't take anymore! Last year my husband had an affair and now we don't communicate. Three months ago, I found a lump in my breast. Yesterday my daughter said she's quitting college." What is the nurse's priority assessment? a. Identify measures useful to help improve the couple's communication. b. The patient's feelings about the possibility of having a mastectomy c. Whether the husband is still engaged in an extramarital affair d. Clarify what the patient means by "I can't take anymore."

D During crisis intervention, the priority concern is patient safety. This question helps assess personal coping skills. The other options are incorrect because the focus of crisis intervention is on the event that occurred immediately before the patient sought help.

The parent of a 6-year-old says, "My child is in constant motion and talks all the time. My child isn't interested in toys but is out of bed every morning before me." The child's behavior is most consistent with diagnostic criteria for a. communication disorder. b. stereotypic movement disorder. c. intellectual development disorder. d. ADHD.

D Excessive motion, distractibility, and excessive talkativeness are seen in ADHD. The behaviors presented in the scenario do not suggest intellectual development, stereotypic, or communication disorder.

A patient tells members of a therapy group, "I hear voices saying my doctor is poisoning me." Another patient replies, "I once heard voices too. They sounded real, but I found out later they were not. The voices you hear are not real either." Which therapeutic factor is exemplified in this interchange? a. Catharsis b. Universality c. Imitative behavior d. Interpersonal learning

D Here a member gains insight into his own experiences from hearing about the experiences of others through interpersonal learning. Catharsis refers to a therapeutic discharge of emotions. Universality refers to members realizing their feelings are common to most people and not abnormal. Imitative behavior involves copying or borrowing the adaptive behavior of others.

Which individual in the emergency department should be considered at highest risk for completing suicide? A. An adolescent Asian American girl with superior athletic and academic skills who has asthma B. A 38-year-old single, African American female church member with fibrocystic breast disease C. A 60-year-old married Hispanic man with 12 grandchildren who has type 2 diabetes D. A 79-year-old single, white male diagnosed recently with terminal cancer of the prostate

D High-risk factors include being an older adult, single, male, and having a co-occurring medical illness. Cancer is one of the somatic conditions associated with increased suicide risk. Protective factors for African American women and Hispanic individuals include strong religious and family ties. Asian Americans have a suicide rate that increases with age.

Which remark by a group participant would the nurse expect during the working stage of group therapy? A. "My problems are very personal and private. How do I know people in this group will not tell others what you hear?" B. "I have enjoyed this group. It's hard to believe that a few weeks ago I couldn't even bring myself to talk here." C. "One thing everyone seems to have in common is that sometimes it's hard to be honest with those you love most." D. "I don't think I agree with your action. It might help you, but it seems like it would upset your family."

D In the working stage, members actively interact to help each other accomplish goals, and because trust has developed, conflict and disagreement can be expressed. Focusing on trust and confidentiality typically occur in the orientation phase as part of establishing group norms. Commonality and universality are also themes typically expressed in the orientation phase, whereas reflecting on progress is a task addressed in the termination phase.

A student falsely accused a college professor of sexual intimidation. The professor tells the nurse, "I cannot teach nor do any research. My mind is totally preoccupied with these false accusations." What is the priority nursing diagnosis? A. Ineffective denial related to threats to professional identity B. Deficient knowledge related to sexual harassment protocols C. Impaired social interaction related to loss of teaching abilities D. Ineffective coping related to distress from false accusations

D Ineffective coping may be evidenced by inability to meet basic needs, inability to meet role expectations. This nursing diagnosis is the priority because it reflects the consequences of the precipitating event associated with the professor's crisis. There is no evidence of denial. Deficient knowledge may apply, but it is not the priority. Data are not present to diagnose impaired social interaction.

A person who attempted suicide by overdose was treated in the emergency department and then hospitalized. The initial outcome is that the patient will a. verbalize a will to live by the end of the second hospital day. b. describe two new coping mechanisms by the end of the third hospital day. c. accurately delineate personal strengths by the end of first week of hospitalization. d. exercise suicide self-restraint by refraining from attempts to harm self for 24 hours.

D Suicide self-restraint relates most directly to the priority problem of risk for self-directed violence. The other outcomes are related to hope, coping, and self-esteem.

The family of a child diagnosed with an impulse control disorder needs help to function more adaptively. Which aspect of the child's plan of care will be provided by an advanced practice nurse rather than a staff nurse? a. Leading an activity group b. Providing positive feedback c. Formulating nursing diagnoses d. Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT

D The advanced practice nurse role includes individual, group, and family psychotherapist; educator of nurses, other professions, and the community; clinical supervisor; consultant to professional and nonprofessional groups; and researcher. DBT is an aspect of psychotherapy. The distracters describe actions of a nurse generalist.

A 12-year-old has engaged in bullying for several years. The parents say, "We can't believe anything our child says." Recently this child shot a dog with a pellet gun and set fire to a neighbor's trash bin. The child's behaviors support the diagnosis of a. ADHD. b. intermittent explosive disorder. c. oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). d. CD.

D The behaviors mentioned are most consistent with criteria for CD, including aggression against people and animals; destruction of property; deceitfulness; rule violations; and impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning. Intermittent explosive disorder is a pattern of behavioral outbursts characterized by an inability to control aggressive impulses in adults 18 years and older. The behaviors are not consistent with attention deficit or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).

Guidelines followed by the leader of a therapeutic group include focusing on recognizing dysfunctional behavior and thinking patterns, followed by identifying and practicing more adaptive alternate behaviors and thinking. Which theory is evident by this approach? a. Behavioral b. Interpersonal c. Psychodynamic d. Cognitive-behavioral

D The characteristics described are those of cognitive-behavioral therapy, in which patients learn to reframe dysfunctional thoughts and extinguish maladaptive behaviors. Behavioral therapy focuses solely on changing behavior rather than thoughts, feelings, and behaviors together. Interpersonal theory focuses on interactions and relationships. Psychodynamic groups focus on developing insight to resolve unconscious conflicts.

An inmate was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by severe sexual abuse. One day this inmate sees a person with characteristics similar to the perpetrator, has a flashback, and then attacks the person. Correctional officers place the inmate in restraint. The correctional nurse should anticipate that the inmate would react to restraint by a. committing to counseling to reduce the incidence of flashbacks. b. becoming less likely to assault others during future flashbacks. c. gradually calming and returning from the flashback to reality. d. becoming more frightened, agitated, and combative.

D The correctional nurse recognizes that events occurring in the present reality are likely to be incorporated into a flashback, leading the inmate to become more frightened and desperate to escape. Even if no longer experiencing a flashback, persons will likely re-experience their original trauma if restrained, including the emotions experienced during that trauma, leading to increased fearfulness and resistance to the jail restraints. Restraints are not likely to calm the individual or reduce aggressiveness but instead increase the sense of helplessness and desperation.

A woman says, "I can't take anymore. Last year my husband had an affair and now we do not communicate. Three months ago, I found a lump in my breast. Yesterday my daughter said she's quitting college and moving in with her boyfriend." Which issue should the nurse focus on during crisis intervention? a. The possible mastectomy b. The disordered family communication c. The effects of the husband's extramarital affair d. Coping with the reaction to the daughter's events

D The focus of crisis intervention is on the most recent problem: "the straw that broke the camel's back." The patient had coped with the breast lesion, the husband's infidelity, and the disordered communication. Disequilibrium occurred only with the introduction of the daughter leaving college and moving.

A child diagnosed with ADHD had this nursing diagnosis: impaired social interaction related to excessive neuronal activity as evidenced by aggression and demanding behavior with others. Which finding indicates the plan of care was effective? The child a. has an improved ability to identify anxiety and use self-control strategies. b. has increased expressiveness in communication with others. c. shows increased responsiveness to authority figures. d. engages in cooperative play with other children.

D The goal should be directly related to the defining characteristics of the nursing diagnosis, in this case, improvement in the child's aggressiveness and play. The distracters are more relevant for a child with autism spectrum or anxiety disorder.

An adult seeks counseling after the spouse was murdered. The adult angrily says, "I hate the beast that did this. It has ruined my life. During the trial, I don't know what I'll do if the jury doesn't return a guilty verdict." What is the nurse's highest priority response? A. "Would you like to talk to a psychiatrist about some medication to help you cope during the trial?" B. "What resources do you need to help you cope with this situation?" C. "Do you have enough support from your family and friends?" D. "Are you having thoughts of hurting yourself or others?"

D The highest nursing priority is safety. The nurse should assess suicidal and homicidal potential. The distracters are options, but the highest priority is safety.

A nurse counsels a patient with recent suicidal ideation. Which is the nurse's most therapeutic comment? a. "Let's make a list of all your problems and think of solutions for each one." b. "I'm happy you're taking control of your problems and trying to find solutions." c. "When you have bad feelings, try to focus on positive experiences from your life." d. "Let's consider which problems are very important and which are less important"

D The nurse helps the patient develop effective coping skills. Assist the patient to reduce the overwhelming effects of problems by prioritizing them. The incorrect options continue to present overwhelming approaches to problem solving.

When a 5-year-old diagnosed with ADHD bounces out of a chair and runs over and slaps another child, what is the nurse's best action? a. Instruct the parents to take the aggressive child home. b. Direct the aggressive child to stop immediately. c. Call for emergency assistance from other staff. d. Take the aggressive child to another room.

D The nurse should manage the milieu with structure and limit setting. Removing the aggressive child to another room is an appropriate consequence for the aggressiveness. Directing the child to stop will not be effective. This is not an emergency. Intervention is needed rather than sending the child home.

An adolescent diagnosed with an impulse control disorder says, "I want to die. I spend my time getting even with people who hurt me." When asked about a suicide plan, the adolescent replies, "I'll jump from a bridge near my home. My father threw kittens off that bridge and they died." Rate the suicide risk. a. Absent b. Low c. Moderate d. High

D The suicide risk is high. The child is experiencing feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. The method described is lethal, and the means to carry out the plan are available.

A young female member in a therapy group says to an older female member, "You are just like my mother, always trying to control me with your observations and suggestions." Which therapeutic factor of a group is evident by this behavior? a. Instillation of hope b. Existential resolution c. Development of socializing techniques d. Corrective recapitulation of the primary family group

D The younger patient is demonstrating an emotional attachment to the older patient that mirrors patterns within her own family of origin, a phenomenon called corrective recapitulation of the primary family group. Feedback from the group then helps the member gain insight about this behavior and leads to more effective ways of relating to her family members. Instillation of hope involves conveying optimism and sharing progress. Existential resolution refers to the realization that certain existential experiences such as death are part of life, aiding the adjustment to such realities. Development of socializing techniques involves gaining social skills through the group's feedback and practice within the group.

Troubled adolescent pulled out a gun in a school cafeteria, fatally shot three people and injured many others. Hundreds of parents come to the school after hearing news reports. After police arrest the shooter, which action should occur next? a. Ask police to encircle the school campus with yellow tape to prevent parents from entering. b. Announce over the loudspeakers, "The campus is now secure. Please return to your classrooms." c. Require parents to pass through metal detectors and then allow them to look for their children in the school.d. d. Designate zones according to the alphabet and direct students to the zones based on their surnames to facilitate reuniting them with their parents.

D. Chaos is likely among students and desperate parents. A directive approach is best. Once the scene is secure, creative solutions are needed. Creating zones by letters of the alphabet will assist anxious parents and their children to unite. Preventing parents from uniting with their children will further incite the situation.

A psychiatric clinical nurse specialist works with a defendant as a competency evaluator. A staff member asks, "Why are you spending so much time with that defendant? You spend one-to-one time and write volumes. Usually, we give defendants some medication and return them to court." Select the clinical nurse specialist's most appropriate response. A. "My role is to be an advocate for the defendant, so I have to know him well and build a trusting relationship." B. "My focus is providing intensive psychotherapy to ensure the defendant becomes competent before returning to court." C. "The specialized assessments I make on behalf of the Court require very lengthy and detailed interviews, so it takes a lot of time." D. "I spend the time observing, assessing, and documenting competency, writing a report, and preparing expert testimony for the Court."

D. The competency evaluator has to determine the patient's current competence to act on his own behalf during his trial; without competency, the inmate cannot stand trial. Determining competency goes well beyond the mental status, functional, and risk assessments most psychiatric nurses are accustomed to and are very complex and time-consuming. A complete formal report is prepared for the Court and all pertinent details addressed in anticipation of questioning by officers of the Court. The evaluator represents the Court, not the patient. Interviews of the inmate are only a portion of the evaluator's work. Evaluators help the Court determine competency but do not intervene to increase the patient's competency.

A nurse works with a child who is sad and irritable because the child's parents are divorcing. Why is establishing a therapeutic alliance with this child a priority? a. Therapeutic relationships provide an outlet for tension. b. Focusing on the strengths increases a person's self-esteem. c. Acceptance and trust convey feelings of security to the child. d. The child should express feelings rather than internalize them

c Trust is frequently an issue because the child may question their trusting relationship with the parents. In this situation, the trust the child once had in parents has been disrupted, reducing feelings of security. The correct answer is the most global response.