Exam 2

After an assault by a patient, a nurse has difficulty sleeping, startles easily, and is preoccupied with the incident. The nurse says, I dread facing potentially violent patients. Which response would be the most urgent reason for this nurse to seek supervision? a. Startle reactions b. Difficulty sleeping c. A wish for revenge d. Preoccupation with the incident

c. A wish for revenge The desire for revenge signals an urgent need for professional supervision to work through anger and counter the aggressive feelings. The distractors are normal in a person who has been assaulted. Nurses are usually relieved with crisis intervention and follow-up designed to give support, help the individual regain a sense of control, and make sense of the event.

A patient tells the nurse, I am so ashamed of being bipolar. When Im manic, my behavior embarrasses my family. Even if I take my medication, theres no guarantee I wont have a relapse. I am such a burden to my family. These statements support which nursing diagnoses? Select all that apply. a. Powerlessness b. Defensive coping c. Chronic low self-esteem d. Impaired social interaction e. Risk-prone health behavior

a. Powerlessness c. Chronic low self-esteem

A hospitalized patient experiencing delirium misinterprets reality, and a patient diagnosed with dementia wanders about the home. Which outcome is the priority in both scenarios? Each patient will: a. remain safe in the environment. b. participate actively in self-care. c. communicate verbally. d. acknowledge reality.

a. remain safe in the environment. Risk for injury is the nurses priority concern in both scenarios. Safety maintenance is the desired outcome. The other outcomes may not be realistic.

Goals and outcomes for an older adult patient experiencing delirium caused by fever and dehydration will focus on: a. returning to premorbid levels of function. b. identifying stressors negatively affecting self. c. demonstrating motor responses to noxious stimuli. d. exerting control over responses to perceptual distortions.

a. returning to premorbid levels of function. The desired overall goal is that the patient with delirium will return to the level of functioning held before the development of delirium. Demonstrating motor responses to noxious stimuli is an appropriate indicator for a patient whose arousal is compromised. Identifying stressors that negatively affect the self is too nonspecific to be useful for a patient experiencing delirium. Exerting control over responses to perceptual distortions is an unrealistic indicator for the patient with sensorium problems related to delirium.

A staff nurse tells another nurse, I evaluated a new patient using the SAD PERSONS scale and got a score of 10. Im wondering if I should send the patient home. Select the best reply by the second nurse. a. That action would seem appropriate. b. A score over 8 requires immediate hospitalization. c. I think you should strongly consider hospitalization for this patient. d. Give the patient a follow-up appointment. Hospitalization may be needed soon.

b. A score over 8 requires immediate hospitalization. A SAD PERSONS scale score of 0 to 5 suggests home care with follow-up. A score of 6 to 8 requires psychiatric consultation. A score over 8 calls for hospitalization.

Consider these health problems: Lewy body disease, Pick disease, and Korsakoff syndrome. Which term unifies these problems? a. Intoxication b. Dementia c. Delirium d. Amnesia

b. Dementia The listed health problems are all forms of dementia.

A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which structure will stimulate a response from the autonomic nervous system? a. Thalamus b. Parietal lobe c. Hypothalamus d. Pituitary gland

c. Hypothalamus The individual will find this experience stressful. The hypothalamus functions as the command-and-control center when receiving stressful signals. The hypothalamus responds to signals of stress by engaging the autonomic nervous system. The parietal lobe is responsible for the interpretation of other sensations. The thalamus processes messages associated with pain and wakefulness. The pituitary gland may be involved in other aspects of the persons response but would not stimulate the autonomic nervous system.

A patient experiencing moderate anxiety says, I feel undone. An appropriate response for the nurse would be: a. Why do you suppose you are feeling anxious? b. What would you like me to do to help you? c. Im not sure I understand. Give me an example. d. You must get your feelings under control before we can continue.

c. Im not sure I understand. Give me an example. Increased anxiety results in scattered thoughts and an inability to articulate clearly. Clarification helps the patient identify his or her thoughts and feelings. Asking the patient why he or she feels anxious is nontherapeutic, and the patient will not likely have an answer. The patient may be unable to determine what he or she would like the nurse to do to help. Telling the patient to get his or her feelings under control is a directive the patient is probably unable to accomplish.

A nurse wishes to teach alternative coping strategies to a patient experiencing severe anxiety. The nurse will first need to: a. Verify the patients learning style. b. Create outcomes and a teaching plan. c. Lower the patients current anxiety level. d. Assess how the patient uses defense mechanisms.

c. Lower the patients current anxiety level. A patient experiencing severe anxiety has a significantly narrowed perceptual field and difficulty attending to events in the environment. A patient experiencing severe anxiety will not learn readily. Determining preferred modes of learning, devising outcomes, and constructing teaching plans are relevant to the task but are not the priority measure. The nurse has already assessed the patients anxiety level. Using defense mechanisms does not apply.

A person is directing traffic on a busy street while shouting and making obscene gestures at passing cars. The person has not slept or eaten for 3 days. What features of mania are evident? a. Increased muscle tension and anxiety b. Vegetative signs and poor grooming c. Poor judgment and hyperactivity d. Cognitive deficit and sad mood

c. Poor judgment and hyperactivity Hyperactivity (directing traffic) and poor judgment (putting self in a dangerous position) are characteristic of manic episodes. The distractors do not specifically apply to mania.

Two staff nurses applied for a charge nurse position. After the promotion was announced, the nurse who was not promoted said, The nurse manager had a headache the day I was interviewed. Which defense mechanism is evident? a. Introjection b. Conversion c. Projection d. Splitting

c. Projection Projection is the hallmark of blaming, scapegoating, thinking prejudicially, and stigmatizing others. Conversion involves the unconscious transformation of anxiety into a physical symptom. Introjection involves intense, unconscious identification with another person. Splitting is the inability to integrate the positive and negative qualities of oneself or others into a cohesive image.

For a patient experiencing panic, which nursing intervention should be implemented first? a. Teach relaxation techniques. b. Administer an anxiolytic medication. c. Provide calm, brief, directive communication. d. Gather a show of force in preparation for gaining physical control.

c. Provide calm, brief, directive communication. Calm, brief, directive verbal interaction can help the patient gain control of the overwhelming feelings and impulses related to anxiety. Patients experiencing panic-level anxiety are unable to focus on reality; thus learning relaxation techniques is virtually impossible. Administering an anxiolytic medication should be considered if providing calm, brief, directive communication is ineffective. Although the patient is disorganized, violence may not be imminent, ruling out the intervention of preparing for physical control until other, less-restrictive measures are proven ineffective.

Which intervention is appropriate to use for patients diagnosed with either delirium or dementia? a. Speak in a loud, firm voice. b. Touch the patient before speaking. c. Reintroduce the health care worker at each contact. d. When the patient becomes aggressive, use physical restraint instead of medication.

c. Reintroduce the health care worker at each contact. Short-term memory is often impaired in patients with delirium and dementia. Reorientation to staff is often necessary with each contact to minimize misperceptions, reduce anxiety level, and secure cooperation. Loud voices may be frightening or sound angry. Speaking before touching prevents the patient from feeling threatened. Physical restraint is not appropriate; the least restrictive measure should be used.

What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder who has made threats against staff, ripped art off the walls, and thrown objects? a. Disturbed sensory perception auditory b. Risk for other-directed violence c. Ineffective denial d. Ineffective coping

b. Risk for other-directed violence Violence against property, along with threats to harm staff, makes this diagnosis the priority. Patients with antisocial personality disorders rarely have psychotic symptoms. When patients with antisocial personality disorders use denial, they use it effectively. Although ineffective coping applies, the risk for violence is a higher priority.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder repeatedly tells staff members, I have cancer. Its my punishment for being a bad person. Diagnostic tests reveal no cancer. Select the priority nursing diagnosis. a. Powerlessness b. Risk for suicide c. Stress overload d. Spiritual distress

b. Risk for suicide A patient with depression who feels so worthless as to believe cancer is deserved is at risk for suicide. Safety concerns take priority over the other diagnoses listed.

Which changes in brain biochemical function is most associated with suicidal behavior? a. Dopamine excess b. Serotonin deficiency c. Acetylcholine excess d. Gamma-aminobutyric acid deficiency

b. Serotonin deficiency 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 suicidal crises.

When a hyperactive patient experiencing acute mania is hospitalized, what initial nursing intervention is a priority? a. Allow the patient to act out his or her feelings. b. Set limits on the patients behavior as necessary. c. Provide verbal instructions to the patient to remain calm. d. Restrain the patient to reduce hyperactivity and aggression.

b. Set limits on the patients behavior as necessary. This intervention provides support through the nurses presence and provides structure as necessary while the patients control is tenuous. Acting out may lead to the loss of behavioral control. The patient will probably be unable to focus on instructions and comply. Restraint is used only after other interventions have proved ineffective.

A patient diagnosed with liver failure has been on the transplant waiting list 8 months. The patient says, Why is it taking so long to have the surgery? Maybe Im meant to die for all the bad things Ive done. The nurse should document the patients comment in which section of the assessment? a. Physical b. Spiritual c. Financial d. Psychological

b. Spiritual Stress can be evident in a persons spirituality. This patients comment indicates questioning of ones place in the universe and consequences for wrongdoing, both of which are elements of spirituality. Stress can be related to psychological, physical, or psychosocial well-being, but spirituality is the best answer.

A patient experiences an episode of severe anxiety. Of these medications in the patients medical record, which is most appropriate to administer as an as-needed (PRN) anxiolytic medication? a. buspirone (BuSpar) b. lorazepam (Ativan) c. amitriptyline (Elavil) d. desipramine (Norpramin)

b. lorazepam (Ativan) Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety; it may be administered as needed. Buspirone is long acting and not useful as an as-needed drug. Amitriptyline and desipramine are tricyclic antidepressants and considered second- or third-line agents.

A soldier who served in a combat zone returned to the United States. The soldiers spouse complains to the nurse, We had planned to start a family, but now he wont talk about it. He wont even look at children. The spouse is describing which symptom associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? a. Reexperiencing b. Hyperarousal c. Avoidance d. Psychosis

c. Avoidance Physiologic reactions to reminders of the event include a persistent avoidance of the stimuli associated with the trauma; the individual avoids talking about the event or avoids activities, people, or places that arouse memories of the trauma. Avoidance is exemplified by a sense of foreshortened future and estrangement. No evidence suggests that this soldier is having a hyperarousal reaction or is re-experiencing war-related traumas. Psychosis is not evident.

Which dinner menu is best suited for the patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder experiencing acute mania? a. Spaghetti and meatballs, salad, a banana b. Beef and vegetable stew, a roll, chocolate pudding c. Broiled chicken breast on a roll, an ear of corn, apple d. Chicken casserole, green beans, flavored gelatin with whipped cream

c. Broiled chicken breast on a roll, an ear of corn, apple The correct foods provide adequate nutrition but, more importantly, are finger foods that the hyperactive patient could eat on the run. The foods in the incorrect options cannot be eaten without utensils.

What is the priority intervention for a patient diagnosed with delirium who has fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alterations? a. Avoidance of physical contact b. High level of sensory stimulation c. Careful observation and supervision d. Application of wrist and ankle restraints

c. Careful observation and supervision Careful observation and supervision are of ultimate importance because an appropriate outcome would be that the patient remains safe and free from injury while hospitalized. Physical contact during care cannot be avoided. Restraint is a last resort, and sensory stimulation should be reduced.

A patient receiving lithium should be assessed for which evidence of complications? a. Pharyngitis, mydriasis, and dystonia b. Alopecia, purpura, and drowsiness c. Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea d. Ascites, dyspnea, and edema

c. Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea are early signs of lithium toxicity. Problems mentioned in the incorrect options are unrelated to lithium therapy.

A patient experiencing fluctuating levels of awareness, confusion, and disturbed orientation shouts, Bugs are crawling on my legs! Get them off! Which problem is the patient experiencing? a. Aphasia b. Dystonia c. Tactile hallucinations d. Mnemonic disturbance

c. Tactile hallucinations The patient feels bugs crawling on both legs, although no sensory stimulus is actually present. This description coincides with the definition of a hallucination, a false sensory perception. Tactile hallucinations may be part of the symptom constellation of delirium. Aphasia refers to a speech disorder. Dystonia refers to excessive muscle tonus. Mnemonic disturbance is associated with dementia rather than delirium.

A confused older adult patient in a skilled care facility is sleeping. The nurse enters the room quietly and touches the bed to see if it is wet. The patient awakens and hits the nurse in the face. Which statement best explains the patients action? a. Older adult patients often demonstrate exaggerations of behaviors used earlier in life. b. Crowding in skilled care facilities increases individual tendencies toward violence. c. The patient interpreted the health care workers behavior as potentially harmful. d. This patient learned violent behavior by watching other patients act out.

c. The patient interpreted the health care workers behavior as potentially harmful. Confused patients are not always able to evaluate accurately the actions of others. This patient behaved as though provoked by the intrusive actions of the staff member.

A nurse assesses the health status of soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Screening for which health problems will be a priority? Select all that apply. a. Schizophrenia b. Eating disorder c. Traumatic brain injury d. Oppositional defiant disorder e. Post-traumatic stress disorder

c. Traumatic brain injury e. Post-traumatic stress disorder Traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder each occur in approximately 20% of soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Some soldiers have both problems. The incidence of disorders identified in the distractors would be expected to parallel the general population.

An older adult patient in the intensive care unit has visual and auditory illusions. Which intervention will be most helpful? a. Place large clocks and calendars on the wall. b. Place personally meaningful objects in view. c. Use the patients glasses and hearing aids. d. Keep the room brightly lit at all times.

c. Use the patients glasses and hearing aids. Illusions are sensory misperceptions. Glasses and hearing aids help clarify sensory perceptions. Without glasses, clocks, calendars, and personal objects are meaningless. Round-the-clock lighting promotes sensory overload and sensory perceptual alterations.

A nurse reports to the interdisciplinary team that a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder lies to other patients, verbally abuses a patient diagnosed with dementia, and flatters the primary nurse. This patient is detached and superficial during counseling sessions. Which behavior most clearly warrants limit setting? a. Flattering the nurse b. Lying to other patients c. Verbal abuse of another patient d. Detached superficiality during counseling

c. Verbal abuse of another patient Limits must be set in areas in which the patients behavior affects the rights of others. Limiting verbal abuse of another patient is a priority intervention. The other concerns should be addressed during therapeutic encounters.

A patient is undergoing diagnostic tests. The patient says, Nothing is wrong with me except a stubborn chest cold. The spouse reports that the patient smokes, coughs daily, has recently lost 15 pounds, and is easily fatigued. Which defense mechanism is the patient using? a. Displacement b. Regression c. Projection d. Denial

d. Denial Denial is an unconscious blocking of threatening or painful information or feelings. Regression involves using behaviors appropriate at an earlier stage of psychosexual development. Displacement shifts feelings to a more neutral person or object. Projection attributes ones own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to another.

Which assessment question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask a patient who has possible generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)? a. Have you been a victim of a crime or seen someone badly injured or killed? b. Do you feel especially uncomfortable in social situations involving people? c. Do you repeatedly do certain things over and over again? d. Do you find it difficult to control your worrying?

d. Do you find it difficult to control your worrying? Patients with GAD frequently engage in excessive worrying. They are less likely to engage in ritualistic behavior, fear social situations, or have been involved in a highly traumatic event.

A nurse is caring for a patient with low self-esteem. Which nonverbal communication should the nurse anticipate? a. Arms crossed b. Staring at the nurse c. Smiling inappropriately d. Eyes pointed downward

d. Eyes pointed downward Nonverbal communication is usually considered more powerful than verbal communication. Downward-casted eyes suggest feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness.

A soldier returned 3 months ago from Afghanistan and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which social event would most likely be disturbing for this soldier?a. Halloween festival with neighborhood children b. Singing carols around a Christmas tree c. Family outing to the seashore d. Fireworks display on July 4th

d. Fireworks display on July 4th Exploding noises associated with fireworks are most likely to provoke exaggerated responses for this soldier. The distractors are not associated with offensive sounds.

A nurse answers a suicide crisis line. A caller says, I live alone in a home several miles from my nearest neighbors. I have been considering suicide for 2 months. I have had several drinks and now my gun is loaded. Im going to shoot myself in the heart. How would the nurse assess the lethality of this plan? a. No risk b. Low level c. Moderate level d. High level

d. High level The patient has a highly detailed plan, a highly lethal method, the means to carry it out, lowered impulse control because of alcohol ingestion, and a low potential for rescue.

After hospital discharge, what is the priority intervention for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is taking antimanic medication, as well as for the patients family? a. Decreasing physical activity b. Increasing food and fluids c. Meeting self-care needs d. Psychoeducation

d. Psychoeducation During the continuation phase of treatment for bipolar disorder, the physical needs of the patient are not as important an issue as they were during the acute episode. After hospital discharge, the treatment focuses on maintaining medication compliance and preventing a relapse, both of which are fostered by ongoing psychoeducation.

Which beverage should the nurse offer to a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder who refuses solid food? a. Tomato juice b. Orange juice c. Hot tea d. Milk

d. Milk Milk is the only beverage listed that provides protein, fat, and carbohydrates. In addition, milk is fortified with vitamins.

A nurse assesses five newly hospitalized patients. Which patients have the highest suicide risk? Select all that apply. a. 82-year-old white man b. 17-year-old white female adolescent c. 39-year-old African-American man d. 29-year-old African-American woman e. 22-year-old man with traumatic brain injury

a. 82-year-old white man b. 17-year-old white female adolescent e. 22-year-old man with traumatic brain injury Whites have suicide rates almost twice those of nonwhites, and the rate is particularly high for older adult men, adolescents, and young adults. Other high risk groups include young African-American men, Native-American men, older Asian Americans, and persons with traumatic brain injury.

An individual says to the nurse, I feel so stressed out lately. I think the stress is affecting my body also. Which somatic complaints are most likely to accompany this feeling? Select all that apply. a. Headache b. Neck pain c. Insomnia d. Anorexia e. Myopia

a. Headache b. Neck pain c. Insomnia d. Anorexia When individuals feel stressed-out, they often have accompanying somatic complaints, especially associated with sleep, eating, and headache or back pain. Changes in vision, such as myopia, would not be expected.

A nurse assesses soldiers in a combat zone in Afghanistan. When is it most important for the nurse to screen for signs and symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI)? a. After a fall, vehicle crash, or exposure to a blast b. Before departing Afghanistan to return to the United States c. One year after returning to the United States from Afghanistan d. Immediately upon return to the United States from Afghanistan

a. After a fall, vehicle crash, or exposure to a blast The military estimates that up to 20% of the combat veterans in both Afghanistan and Iraq suffer some degree of TBI. TBI exhibits signs shortly after the injury, and these signs usually resolve in days or weeks. Screening after an exposure to an explosion and before returning to the United States is important.

A nurse should anticipate that which symptoms of Alzheimer disease will become apparent as the disease progresses from moderate to severe to late stage? Select all that apply. a. Agraphia b. Hyperorality c. Fine motor tremors d. Hypermetamorphosis e. Improvement of memory

a. Agraphia b. Hyperorality d. Hypermetamorphosis The memories of patients with Alzheimer disease continue to deteriorate. These patients demonstrate the inability to read or write (agraphia), the need to put everything into the mouth (hyperorality), and the need to touch everything (hypermetamorphosis). Fine motor tremors are associated with alcohol withdrawal delirium, not dementia. Memory does not improve.

Which central nervous system structures are most associated with anger and aggression? Select all that apply. a. Amygdala b. Cerebellum c. Basal ganglia d. Temporal lobe e. Parietal lobe

a. Amygdala d. Temporal lobe The amygdala mediates anger experiences and helps a person judge an event as either rewarding or aversive. The temporal lobe, which is part of the limbic system, also plays a role in aggressive behavior. The cerebellum manages equilibrium, muscle tone, and movement. The basal ganglia are involved in movement. The parietal lobe is involved in interpreting sensations.

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 began feeling depressed.

a. Are you having thoughts of suicide? The nurse must make overt what is covert; that is, the possibility of suicide must be openly addressed. Often, patients feel relieved to be able to talk about suicidal ideation.

A patient has a fear of public speaking. The nurse should be aware that social anxiety disorders (social phobias) are often treated with which type of medication? a. Beta-blockers b. Antipsychotic medications c. Tricyclic antidepressant agents d. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

a. Beta-blockers Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, are often effective in preventing symptoms of anxiety associated with social phobias. Neuroleptic medications are major tranquilizers and not useful in treating social phobias. Tricyclic antidepressants are rarely used because of their side effect profile. MAOIs are administered for depression and only by individuals who can observe the special diet required.

A patient approaches the nurse and impatiently blurts out, Youve got to help me! Something terrible is happening. My heart is pounding. The nurse responds, Its almost time for visiting hours. Lets get your hair combed. Which approach has the nurse used? a. Bringing up an irrelevant topic b. Responding to physical needs c. Addressing false cognitions d. Focusing

a. Bringing up an irrelevant topic The patient is experiencing anxiety. The nurse has closed off patient-centered communication by changing the subject. The introduction of an irrelevant topic makes the nurse feel better. The nurse may be uncomfortable dealing with the patients severe anxiety. The nurse has not responded to the patients physical needs. There is no evidence of false cognition. Focusing is a therapeutic communication technique used to concentrate attention on a single issue.

Which documentation indicates that the treatment plan for a patient experiencing acute mania has been effective? a. Converses without interrupting; clothing matches; participates in activities. b. Irritable, suggestible, distractible; napped for 10 minutes in afternoon. c. Attention span short; writing copious notes; intrudes in conversations. d. Heavy makeup; seductive toward staff; pressured speech.

a. Converses without interrupting; clothing matches; participates in activities. The descriptors given indicate the patient is functioning at an optimal level, using appropriate behavior, and thinking without becoming overstimulated by unit activities. The incorrect options reflect manic behavior.

A professors 4-year-old child has a fever of 101.6 F, diarrhea, and complains of stomach pain. The professor is scheduled to teach three classes today. Which nursing diagnosis best applies to this scenario? a. Decisional conflict b. Unilateral neglect c. Disabled family coping d. Ineffective management of the therapeutic regimen

a. Decisional conflict The caregiver is the focus of the nurses attention. The professor is under stress, related to the conflict between his parenting and professional roles. This scenario presents a decisional conflict. No evidence suggests that family coping is disabled or that a therapeutic regimen is not managed. Unilateral neglect refers to the awareness of the body.

Which is an effective nursing intervention to assist an angry patient to learn to manage anger without violence? a. Help the patient identify a thought that increases anger, find proof for or against the belief, and substitute reality-based thinking. b. Provide negative reinforcement such as restraint or seclusion in response to angry outbursts, whether or not violence is present. c. Use aversive conditioning, such as popping a rubber band on the wrist, to help extinguish angry feelings. d. Administer an antipsychotic or antianxiety medication when the patient feels angry.

a. Help the patient identify a thought that increases anger, find proof for or against the belief, and substitute reality-based thinking. Anger has a strong cognitive component; therefore, using cognition to manage anger is logical. The incorrect options do nothing to help the patient learn anger management.

A nurse talks with the caregiver of a combat veteran diagnosed with severe traumatic brain injuries. The caregiver says, I dont know how much longer I can do it. My whole life is consumed with taking care of my partner. Select the nurses best response. a. How are you taking care of yourself? b. Lets review your partners diagnostic results. c. I have some web-based programs for you to visit. d. Your partner is lucky to have someone so devoted.

a. How are you taking care of yourself? The caregiver is the focus of the nurses attention. The caregiver is suffering. The nurse must be empathetic and assess how the caregiver is caring for self. Reassurance and isolated computer activities do not help. The partner is already aware of the diagnostic results.

Which documentation indicates the treatment plan of a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder was effective? a. Slept 6 hours uninterrupted. Sang with activity group. Anticipates seeing grandchild. b. Slept 10 hours uninterrupted. Attended craft group; stated project was a failure, just like me. c. Slept 5 hours with brief interruptions. Personal hygiene adequate with assistance. Weight loss of 1 pound. d. Slept 7 hours uninterrupted. Preoccupied with perceived inadequacies. States, I feel tired all the time.

a. Slept 6 hours uninterrupted. Sang with activity group. Anticipates seeing grandchild. Sleeping 6 hours, participating in a group activity, and anticipating an event are all positive happenings. All the other options show at least one negative finding.

A person who has been unable to leave home for more than a week because of severe anxiety says, I know it does not make sense, but I just cant bring myself to leave my apartment alone. Which nursing intervention is appropriate? a. Teach the person to use positive self-talk. b. Assist the person to apply for disability benefits. c. Ask the person to explain why the fear is so disabling. d. Advise the person to accept the situation and use a companion.

a. Teach the person to use positive self-talk. This intervention, a form of cognitive restructuring, replaces negative thoughts such as I cant leave my apartment with positive thoughts such as I can control my anxiety. This technique helps the patient gain mastery over the symptoms. The other options reinforce the sick role.

A patient with a high level of motor activity runs from chair to chair and cries, Theyre coming! Theyre coming! The patient does not follow instructions or respond to verbal interventions from staff. The initial nursing intervention of highest priority is to: a. provide for patient safety. b. increase environmental stimuli. c. respect the patients personal space. d. encourage the clarification of feelings.

a. provide for patient safety. Safety is of highest priority; the patient who is experiencing panic is at high risk for self-injury related to an increase in nongoal-directed motor activity, distorted perceptions, and disordered thoughts. The goal should be to decrease the environmental stimuli. Respecting the patients personal space is a lower priority than safety. The clarification of feelings cannot take place until the level of anxiety is lowered.

A person who is speaking about a contender for a significant others affection says in a gushy, syrupy voice, What a lovely person. Thats someone I simply adore. The individual is demonstrating: a. reaction formation. b. repression. c. projection. d. denial.

a. reaction formation. Reaction formation is an unconscious mechanism that keeps unacceptable feelings out of awareness by using the opposite behavior. Instead of expressing hatred for the other person, the individual gives praise. Denial operates unconsciously to allow an anxiety-producing idea, feeling, or situation to be ignored. Projection involves unconsciously disowning an unacceptable idea, feeling, or behavior by attributing it to another. Repression involves unconsciously placing an idea, feeling, or event out of awareness.

The cause of bipolar disorder has not been determined, but: a. several factors, including genetics, are implicated. b. brain structures were altered by stresses early in life. c. excess norepinephrine is probably a major factor. d. excess sensitivity in dopamine receptors may exist.

a. several factors, including genetics, are implicated. At this time, the interplay of complex independent variables is most likely the best explanation of the cause for bipolar disorder. Various theories implicate genetics, endocrine imbalance, early stress, and neurotransmitter imbalances.

A nurse receives this laboratory result for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder: lithium level 1 mEq/L. This result is: a. within therapeutic limits b. below therapeutic limits c. above therapeutic limits d. incorrect because of inaccurate testing

a. within therapeutic limits The normal range for a blood sample taken 8 to 12 hours after the last dose of lithium is 0.4 to 1 mEq/L.

A patient performs ritualistic hand washing. What should the nurse do to help the patient develop more effective coping strategies? a. Allow the patient to set a hand-washing schedule. b. Encourage the patient to participate in social activities. c. Encourage the patient to discuss hand-washing routines. d. Focus on the patients symptoms rather than on the patient.

b. Encourage the patient to participate in social activities. Because patients diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder become overly involved in rituals, promoting involvement with other people and activities is necessary to improve the patients coping strategies. Daily activities prevent the constant focus on anxiety and its symptoms. The other interventions focus on the compulsive symptom.

An emergency department nurse realizes that the spouse of a patient is becoming increasingly irritable while waiting. Which intervention should the nurse use to prevent escalation of anger? a. Explain that the patients condition is not life threatening. b. Periodically provide an update and progress report on the patient. c. Explain that all patients are treated in order, based on their medical needs. d. Suggest that the spouse return home until the patients treatment is completed.

b. Periodically provide an update and progress report on the patient. Periodic updates reduce anxiety and defuse anger. This strategy acknowledges the spouses presence and concerns. The incorrect options are likely to increase anger because they imply that the anxiety is inappropriate.

A patient being admitted suddenly pulls a knife from a coat pocket and threatens, I will kill anyone who tries to get near me. An emergency code is called. The patient is safely disarmed and placed in seclusion. Justification for the use of seclusion is that the patient: a. evidences a thought disorder, rendering rational discussion ineffective. b. presents a clear and present danger to others. c. presents a clear escape risk. d. is psychotic.

b. presents a clear and present danger to others. The patients threat to kill self or others with the knife he possesses constitutes a clear and present danger to self and others. The distractors are not sufficient reasons for seclusion.

An older adult was stopped by police for driving through a red light. When asked for a drivers license, the adult hands the police officer a pair of sunglasses. What sign of dementia is evident? a. Aphasia b. Apraxia c. Agnosia d. Memory impairment

c. Agnosia Agnosia refers to the loss of sensory ability to recognize objects. Aphasia refers to the loss of language ability. Apraxia refers to the loss of purposeful movement. No evidence of memory loss is revealed in this scenario.

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

c. Availability of means and lethality of method If a person has definite 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 considered high. These areas provide a better indication of risk than the areas mentioned in the other options.

A nurse assesses a patient who reports a 3-week history of depression and crying spells. 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. I have a plan that will fix everything. 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 patients suicide as being a way to fix everything but does not say it outright.

A college student failed two examinations. The student cried for hours and then tried to call a parent but got no answer. The student then suspended access to his social networking web site. Which suicide risk factors are present? Select all that apply. a. History of earlier suicide attempt b. Co-occurring medical illness c. Recent stressful life event d. Self-imposed isolation e. Shame or humiliation

c. Recent stressful life event d. Self-imposed isolation e. Shame or humiliation Failing examinations in the academic major constitutes a recent stressful life event. Shame and humiliation related to the failure can be hypothesized. The inability to contact parents can be seen as a recent lack of social support, as can the roommates absence from the dormitory. Terminating access to ones social networking site represents self-imposed isolation. This scenario does not provide data regarding a history of an earlier suicide attempt, a family history of suicide, or of co-occurring medical illness.

Which individual in the emergency department should be considered at the 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 man with cancer of the prostate gland

d. A 79-year-old single white man with cancer of the prostate gland High-risk factors include being an older adult, single, and 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.

A severely depressed patient who has been on suicide precautions tells the nurse, I am feeling a lot better, so you can stop watching me. I have taken too much of your time already. Which is the nurses best response? a. I wonder what this sudden change is all about. Please tell me more. b. I am glad you are feeling better. The team will consider your request. c. You should not try to direct your care. Leave that to the treatment team. d. Because we are concerned about your safety, we will continue with our plan.

d. Because we are concerned about your safety, we will continue with our plan. When a patient seeks to have precautions lifted by professing to feel better, the patient may be seeking greater freedom in which to attempt suicide. Changing the treatment plan requires careful evaluation of outcome indicators by the staff. The incorrect options will not cause the patient to admit to a suicidal plan, do not convey concern for the patient, or suggest that the patient is not a partner in the care process.

Lithium is prescribed for a new patient. Which information from the patients history indicates that monitoring serum concentrations of the drug will be especially challenging and critical? a. Arthritis b. Epilepsy c. Psoriasis d. Congestive heart failure

d. Congestive heart failure The patient with congestive heart failure will likely need diuretic drugs, which will complicate the maintenance of the fluid balance necessary to avoid lithium toxicity. Arthritis, epilepsy, and psoriasis do not directly involve fluid balance and kidney function.

A soldier served in combat zones in Iraq in 2010 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2013. When is it most important for the nurse to screen for signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? a. Immediately upon return to the United States from Afghanistan b. Before departing Afghanistan to return to the United States c. One year after returning from Afghanistan d. Screening should be ongoing

d. Screening should be ongoing PTSD can have a long lag timemonths to years. Screening should be ongoing.

A student says, Before taking a test, I feel a heightened sense of awareness and restlessness. The nurse can correctly assess the students experience as: a. culturally influenced. b. displacement. c. trait anxiety. d. mild anxiety.

d. mild anxiety. Mild anxiety is rarely obstructive to the task at hand. It may be helpful to the patient because it promotes study and increases awareness of the nuances of questions. The incorrect responses have different symptoms.

For which behavior would limit setting be most essential? The patient: a. clings to the nurse and asks for advice about inconsequential matters. b. is flirtatious and provocative with staff members of the opposite sex. c. is hypervigilant and refuses to attend unit activities. d. urges a suspicious patient to hit anyone who stares.

d. urges a suspicious patient to hit anyone who stares. The correct option is an example of a manipulative behavior. Because manipulation violates the rights of others, limit setting is absolutely necessary. Furthermore, limit setting is necessary in this case because the safety of patients is at risk. Limit setting may be occasionally used with dependent behavior (clinging to the nurse) and histrionic behavior (flirting with staff members), but other therapeutic techniques are also useful. Limit setting is not needed for a patient who is hypervigilant and refuses to attend unit activities; rather, the need to develop trust is central to patient compliance.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder commands other patients, Get me a book. Take this stuff out of here, and other similar demands. The nurse wants to interrupt this behavior without entering into a power struggle. Select the best initial approach by the nurse. a. Distraction: Lets go to the dining room for a snack. b. Humor: How much are you paying servants these days? c. Limit setting: You must stop ordering other patients around. d. Honest feedback: Your controlling behavior is annoying others.

a. Distraction: Lets go to the dining room for a snack. The distractibility characteristic of manic episodes can assist the nurse to direct the patient toward more appropriate, constructive activities without entering into a power struggle. Humor usually backfires by either encouraging the patient or inciting anger. Limit setting and honest feedback may seem heavy-handed to a labile patient and may incite anger.

The staff development coordinator plans to teach use of physical management techniques when patients become assaultive. Which topic should be emphasized? a. Practice and teamwork b. Spontaneity and surprise c. Caution and superior size d. Diversion and physical outlets

a. Practice and teamwork Intervention techniques are learned behaviors that must be practiced to be used in a smooth, organized fashion. Every member of the intervention team should be assigned a specific task to carry out before beginning the intervention. The other options are useless if the staff does not know how to use physical techniques and how to apply them in an organized fashion.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder will begin electroconvulsive therapy tomorrow. Which interventions are routinely implemented before the treatment? Select all that apply. a. Administer pretreatment medication 30 to 45 minutes before treatment. b. Withhold food and fluids for a minimum of 6 hours before treatment. c. Remove dentures, glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids. d. Restrain the patient in bed with padded limb restraints. e. Assist the patient to prepare an advance directive.

a. Administer pretreatment medication 30 to 45 minutes before treatment. b. Withhold food and fluids for a minimum of 6 hours before treatment. c. Remove dentures, glasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids. The correct interventions reflect routine electroconvulsive therapy preparation, which is similar to preoperative preparation: sedation and anticholinergic medication before anesthesia, maintaining nothing-by-mouth status to prevent aspiration during and after treatment, airway maintenance, and general safety by removing prosthetic devices. Restraint is not part of the pretreatment protocol. An advance directive is prepared independent of this treatment.

A patient with suicidal impulses is on the highest level of suicide precautions. Which measures should the nurse incorporate into the patients plan of care? Select all that apply. a. Allow no glass or metal on meal trays. b. Remove all potentially harmful objects from the patients possession. c. Maintain arms length, one-on-one nursing observation around the clock. d. Check the patients whereabouts every hour. Make verbal contact at least three times each shift. e. Check the patients whereabouts every 15 minutes, and make frequent verbal contacts. f. Keep the patient within visual range while he or she is awake. Check every 15 to 30 minutes while the patient is sleeping.

a. Allow no glass or metal on meal trays. b. Remove all potentially harmful objects from the patients possession. c. Maintain arms length, one-on-one nursing observation around the clock. One-on-one observation is necessary for anyone who has limited control over suicidal impulses. Plastic dishes on trays and the removal of potentially harmful objects from the patients possession are measures included in any level of suicide precautions. The remaining options are used in less stringent levels of suicide precautions.

Two staff nurses applied for promotion to nurse manager. Initially, the nurse not promoted had feelings of loss but then became supportive of the new manager by helping make the transition smooth and encouraging others. Which term best describes the nurses response? a. Altruism b. Sublimation c. Suppression d. Passive aggression

a. Altruism Altruism is the mechanism by which an individual deals with emotional conflict by meeting the needs of others and vicariously receiving gratification from the responses of others. The nurses reaction is conscious, not unconscious. No evidence of aggression is exhibited, and no evidence of conscious denial of the situation exists. Passive aggression occurs when an individual deals with emotional conflict by indirectly and unassertively expressing aggression toward others.

Consider these problems: apolipoprotein E (apoE) malfunction, neuritic plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, granulovascular degeneration, and brain atrophy. Which condition corresponds to this group? a. Alzheimer disease b. Wernicke encephalopathy c. Central anticholinergic syndrome d. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)related dementia

a. Alzheimer disease The problems are all aspects of the pathophysiologic characteristics of Alzheimer disease.

Which statement provides the best rationale for why a nurse should closely monitor a severely depressed patient during antidepressant medication therapy? a. As depression lifts, physical energy becomes available to carry out suicide. b. Suicide may be precipitated by a variety of internal and external events. c. Suicidal patients have difficulty using social supports. d. Suicide is an impulsive act.

a. As depression lifts, physical energy becomes available to carry out suicide. Antidepressant medication has the objective of relieving depression. The 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.

A patient has progressive memory deficit associated with dementia. Which nursing intervention would best help the individual function in the environment? a. Assist the patient to perform simple tasks by giving step-by-step directions. b. Reduce frustration by performing activities of daily living for the patient. c. Stimulate intellectual function by discussing new topics with the patient. d. Promote the use of the patients sense of humor by telling jokes.

a. Assist the patient to perform simple tasks by giving step-by-step directions. Patients with a cognitive impairment should perform all tasks of which they are capable. When simple directions are given in a systematic fashion, the patient is better able to process information and perform simple tasks. Stimulating intellectual functioning by discussing new topics is likely to prove frustrating for the patient. Patients with cognitive deficits may lose their sense of humor and find jokes meaningless.

Others describe a worker as very shy and lacking in self-confidence. This worker stays in an office cubicle all day and never comes out for breaks or lunch. Which term best describes this behavior? a. Avoidant b. Dependent c. Histrionic d. Paranoid

a. Avoidant Patients with avoidant personality disorder are timid, socially uncomfortable, and withdrawn and avoid situations in which they might fail. They believe themselves to be inferior and unappealing. Individuals with dependent personality disorder are clinging, needy, and submissive. Individuals with histrionic personality disorder are seductive, flamboyant, shallow, and attention seeking. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder are suspicious and hostile and project blame.

Which statement is mostly likely to be made by a patient diagnosed with agoraphobia? a. Being afraid to go out seems ridiculous, but I cant go out the door. b. Im sure Ill get over not wanting to leave home soon. It takes time. c. When I have a good incentive to go out, I can do it. d. My family says they like it now that I stay home.

a. Being afraid to go out seems ridiculous, but I cant go out the door. Individuals who are agoraphobic generally acknowledge that the behavior is not constructive and that they do not really like it. Patients state they are unable to change the behavior. Patients with agoraphobia are not optimistic about change. Most families are dissatisfied when family members refuse to leave the house.

The parents of identical twins ask a nurse for advice. One twin committed suicide a month ago. Now the parents are concerned that the other twin may also have suicidal tendencies. Which comment by the nurse is accurate? 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. Genetics are associated with suicide risk. Monitoring and support are important. 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 the genetic load. The incorrect options are untrue statements or oversimplifications.

Which comment by a person experiencing severe anxiety indicates the possibility of obsessive-compulsive disorder? a. I check where my car keys are eight times. b. My legs often feel weak and spastic. c. Im embarrassed to go out in public. d. I keep reliving the car accident.

a. I check where my car keys are eight times. Recurring doubt (obsessive thinking) and the need to check (compulsive behavior) suggest obsessive- compulsive disorder. The repetitive behavior is designed to decrease anxiety but fails and must be repeated. The statement, My legs feel weak most of the time, is more in keeping with a somatoform disorder. Being embarrassed to go out in public is associated with an avoidant personality disorder. Reliving a traumatic event is associated with post-traumatic stress disorder.

A student nurse caring for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder reads in the patients medical record, This patient shows vegetative signs of depression. Which nursing diagnoses most clearly relate to the vegetative signs? Select all that apply. a. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements b. Chronic low self-esteem c. Sexual dysfunction d. Self-care deficit e. Powerlessness f. Insomnia

a. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements c. Sexual dysfunction d. Self-care deficit f. Insomnia Vegetative signs of depression are alterations in the body processes necessary to support life and growth, such as eating, sleeping, elimination, and sexual activity. These diagnoses are more closely related to vegetative signs than to diagnoses associated with feelings about self.

Which assessment findings would the nurse expect in a patient experiencing delirium? Select all that apply. a. Impaired level of consciousness b. Disorientation to place and time c. Wandering attention d. Apathy e. Agnosia

a. Impaired level of consciousness b. Disorientation to place and time c. Wandering attention Disorientation to place and time is an expected finding. Orientation to person (self) usually remains intact. Attention span is short, and difficulty focusing or shifting attention as directed is often noted. Patients with delirium commonly experience illusions and hallucinations. Fluctuating levels of consciousness are expected. Agnosia occurs with dementia. Apathy is associated with depression.

A patient in the emergency department has no physical injuries but exhibits disorganized behavior and incoherence after minor traffic accident. In which room should the nurse place the patient? a. Interview room furnished with a desk and two chairs b. Small, empty storage room with no windows or furniture c. Room with an examining table, instrument cabinets, desk, and chair d. Nurses office, furnished with chairs, files, magazines, and bookcases

a. Interview room furnished with a desk and two chairs Individuals who are experiencing severe to panic-level anxiety require a safe environment that is quiet, nonstimulating, structured, and simple. A room with a desk and two chairs provides simplicity, few objects with which the patient could cause self-harm, and a small floor space around which the patient can move. A small, empty storage room without windows or furniture would be like a jail cell. The nurses office or a room with an examining table and instrument cabinets may be overstimulating and unsafe.

Four individuals have given information about their suicide plans. Which plan evidences the highest suicide risk? a. Jumping from a 100-foot-high railroad bridge located in a deserted area late at night b. Turning on the oven and letting gas escape into the apartment during the night c. Cutting the wrists in the bathroom while the spouse reads in the next room d. Overdosing on aspirin with codeine while the spouse is out with friends

a. Jumping from a 100-foot-high railroad bridge located in a deserted area late at night This is a highly lethal method with little opportunity for rescue. The other options are lower lethality methods with higher rescue potential.

An older adult diagnosed with moderate-stage dementia forgets where the bathroom is and has episodes of incontinence. Which intervention should the nurse suggest to the patients family? a. Label the bathroom door. b. Take the older adult to the bathroom hourly. c. Place the older adult in disposable adult diapers. d. Make sure the older adult does not eat nonfood items.

a. Label the bathroom door. Patient with moderate Alzheimer disease has memory loss that begins to interfere with activities. This patient may be able to use environmental cues such as labels on doors to compensate for memory loss. Regular toileting may be helpful, but a 2-hour schedule is often more reasonable. Placing the patient in disposable diapers is more appropriate as a later stage intervention. Making sure the patient does not eat nonfood items will be more relevant when the patient demonstrates hyperorality.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is dressed in a red leotard and brightly colored scarves. The patient says, Ill punch you, munch you, crunch you, while twirling and shadowboxing. Then the patient says gaily, Do you like my scarves? Herethey are my gift to you. How should the nurse document the patients mood? a. Labile and euphoric b. Irritable and belligerent c. Highly suspicious and arrogant d. Excessively happy and confident

a. Labile and euphoric The patient has demonstrated angry behavior and pleasant, happy behavior within seconds of each other. Excessive happiness indicates euphoria. Mood swings are often rapid and seemingly without understandable reason in patients who are manic. These swings are documented as labile. Irritability, belligerence, excessive happiness, and confidence are not entirely correct terms for the patients mood. A high level of suspicion is not evident.

A nurse instructs a patient taking a drug that inhibits the action of monoamine oxidase (MAO) to avoid certain foods and drugs because of the risk of: a. hypotensive shock. b. hypertensive crisis. c. cardiac dysrhythmia. d. cardiogenic shock.

b. hypertensive crisis. Patients taking MAOIs must be on a tyramine-free diet to prevent hypertensive crisis. In the presence of MAOIs, tyramine is not destroyed by the liver and, in high levels, produces intense vasoconstriction, resulting in elevated blood pressure.

A patient tells a nurse, I sometimes get into trouble because I make quick decisions and act on them. A therapeutic response would be: a. Lets consider the advantages of being able to stop and think before acting. b. It sounds as though youve developed some insight into your situation. c. Ill bet you have some interesting stories to share about overreacting. d. Its good that youre showing readiness for behavioral change.

a. Lets consider the advantages of being able to stop and think before acting. The patient is showing openness to learning techniques for impulse control. One technique is to teach the patient to stop and think before acting impulsively. The patient can then be taught to evaluate the outcomes of possible actions and choose an effective action. The incorrect responses shift the encounter to a social level or are judgmental.

A new nurse says to a peer, My newest patient is diagnosed with schizophrenia. At least I wont have to worry about suicide risk. Which response by the peer would be most helpful? a. Lets reconsider your plan. Suicide risk is high in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. b. Suicide is a risk for any patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who uses alcohol or drugs. c. Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia are usually too disorganized to attempt suicide. d. Visual hallucinations often prompt suicide among patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

a. Lets reconsider your plan. Suicide risk is high in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Up to 10% of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia die from suicide, usually related to depressive symptoms occurring in the early years of the illness. Depressive symptoms are related to suicide among patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia usually have auditory, not visual, hallucinations. Although the use of drugs and alcohol compounds the risk for suicide, it is independent of schizophrenia.

A soldier returns to the United States from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan. The soldier is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The nurses highest priority is to screen this soldier for which problem? a. Major depressive disorder b. Bipolar disorder c. Schizophrenia d. Dementia

a. Major depressive disorder Major depressive disorder frequently co-occurs with PTSD. The incidence of the disorders identified in the distractors is similar to the general population.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder does not interact with others except when addressed and then only in monosyllables. The nurse wants to show nonjudgmental acceptance and support for the patient. Select the nurses most effective approach to communication. a. Make observations. b. Ask the patient direct questions. c. Phrase questions to require yes or no answers. d. Frequently reassure the patient to reduce guilt feelings.

a. Make observations. Making observations about neutral topics such as the environment draws the patient into the reality around him or her but places no burdensome expectations on the patient for answers. Acceptance and support are shown by the nurses presence. Direct questions may make the patient feel that the encounter is an interrogation. Open- ended questions are preferable if the patient is able to participate in dialog. Platitudes are never acceptable; they minimize patient feelings and can increase feelings of worthlessness.

A nurse teaching a patient about a tyramine-restricted diet would approve which meal? a. Mashed potatoes, ground beef patty, corn, green beans, apple pie b. Avocado salad, ham, creamed potatoes, asparagus, chocolate cake c. Macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, banana bread, caffeinated coffee d. Noodles with cheddar cheese sauce, smoked sausage, lettuce salad, yeast rolls

a. Mashed potatoes, ground beef patty, corn, green beans, apple pie The correct answer describes a meal that contains little tyramine. Vegetables and fruits contain little or no tyramine, and fresh ground beef and apple pie should be safe. The other meals contain various amounts of tyramine-rich foods or foods that contain vasopressors: avocados, ripe bananas (banana bread), sausages and hot dogs, smoked meat (ham), cheddar cheese, yeast, caffeine drinks, and chocolate.

For which patients diagnosed with personality disorders would a family history of similar problems be most likely? Select all that apply. a. Obsessive-compulsive b. Antisocial c. Dependent d. Schizotypal e. Narcissistic

a. Obsessive-compulsive b. Antisocial d. Schizotypal Some personality disorders have evidence of genetic links; therefore the family history would show other family members with similar traits. Heredity plays a role in schizotypal and antisocial problems, as well as obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder shows vegetative signs of depression. Which nursing actions should be implemented? Select all that apply. a. Offer laxatives, if needed. b. Monitor food and fluid intake. c. Provide a quiet sleep environment. d. Eliminate all daily caffeine intake. e. Restrict the intake of processed foods.

a. Offer laxatives, if needed. b. Monitor food and fluid intake. c. Provide a quiet sleep environment. The correct options promote a normal elimination pattern. Although excessive intake of stimulants such as caffeine may make the patient feel jittery and anxious, small amounts may provide useful stimulation. No indication exists that processed foods should be restricted.

Which behaviors are most consistent with the clinical picture of a patient who is becoming increasingly aggressive? Select all that apply. a. Pacing b. Crying c. Withdrawn affect d. Rigid posture with clenched jaw e. Staring with narrowed eyes into the eyes of another

a. Pacing d. Rigid posture with clenched jaw e. Staring with narrowed eyes into the eyes of another Crying and a withdrawn affect are not cited by experts as behaviors indicating that the individual has a high potential to behave violently. The other behaviors are consistent with the increased risk for other-directed violence.

Because an intervention is required to control a patients aggressive behavior, a critical incident debriefing takes place. Which topics should be the focus of the discussion? Select all that apply. a. Patient behavior associated with the incident b. Genetic factors associated with aggression c. Intervention techniques used by staff d. Effect of environmental factors e. Review of theories of aggression

a. Patient behavior associated with the incident c. Intervention techniques used by staff d. Effect of environmental factors The patients behavior, the intervention techniques used, and the environment in which the incident occurred are important to establish realistic outcomes and effective nursing interventions. Discussing the views about the theoretical origins of aggression is less effective.

A person intentionally overdoses on antidepressant drugs. Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority? a. Powerlessness b. Social isolation c. Risk for suicide d. Ineffective management of the therapeutic regimen

c. Risk for suicide This diagnosis is the only one with life-or-death ramifications and is therefore higher in priority than the other options.

A patient diagnosed with Alzheimer disease has a dressing and grooming self-care deficit. Designate the appropriate interventions to include in the patients plan of care. Select all that apply. a. Provide clothing with elastic and hook-and-loop closures. b. Label clothing with the patients name and name of the item. c. Administer antianxiety medication before bathing and dressing. d. Provide necessary items, and direct the patient to proceed independently. e. If the patient resists, use distraction and then try again after a short interval.

a. Provide clothing with elastic and hook-and-loop closures. b. Label clothing with the patients name and name of the item. e. If the patient resists, use distraction and then try again after a short interval. Providing clothing with elastic and hook-and-loop closures facilitates patient independence. Labeling clothing with the patients name and the name of the item maintains patient identity and dignity (and provides information if the patient has agnosia). When a patient resists, using distraction and trying again after a short interval are appropriate because patient moods are often labile; the patient may be willing to cooperate during a later opportunity. Providing the necessary items for grooming and directing the patient to proceed independently are inappropriate. Staff members are prepared to coach by giving step-by-step directions for each task as it occurs. Administering anxiolytic medication before bathing and dressing is inappropriate. This measure would result in unnecessary overmedication.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is being treated as an outpatient during a hypomanic episode. Which suggestions should the nurse provide to the family? Select all that apply. a. Provide structure b. Limit credit card access c. Encourage group social interaction d. Limit work to half days e. Monitor the patients sleep patterns

a. Provide structure b. Limit credit card access e. Monitor the patients sleep patterns A patient with hypomania is expansive, grandiose, and labile; uses poor judgment; spends inappropriately; and is overstimulated by a busy environment. Providing structure helps the patient maintain appropriate behavior. Financial irresponsibility may be avoided by limiting access to cash and credit cards. Continued decline in sleep patterns may indicate the condition has evolved to full mania. Group socialization should be kept to a minimum to reduce stimulation. A full leave of absence from work is necessary to limit stimuli and to prevent problems associated with poor judgment and the inappropriate decision making that accompany hypomania.

An individual experiences sexual dysfunction and blames it on a partner by calling the person unattractive and unromantic. Which defense mechanism is evident? a. Rationalization b. Compensation c. Introjection d. Regression

a. Rationalization Rationalization involves unconsciously making excuses for ones behavior, inadequacies, or feelings. Regression involves the unconscious use of a behavior from an earlier stage of emotional development. Compensation involves making up for deficits in one area by excelling in another area. Introjection is an unconscious, intense identification with another person.

A soldier in a combat zone tells the nurse, I saw a child get blown up over a year ago, and now I keep seeing bits of flesh everywhere. I see something red and the visions race back to my mind. Which phenomenon associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is this soldier describing? a. Re-experiencing b. Hyperarousal c. Avoidance d. Psychosis

a. Re-experiencing Spontaneous or cued recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic events are often associated with PTSD. The soldier has described intrusive thoughts and visions associated with re- experiencing the traumatic event. This description does not indicate psychosis, hypervigilance, or avoidance.

Which intervention is appropriate for a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? a. Refer the patients requests and questions to the case manager. b. Explore the patients feelings of fear and inferiority. c. Provide negative reinforcement for acting-out behavior. d. Ignore, rather than confront, inappropriate behavior.

a. Refer the patients requests and questions to the case manager. Manipulative patients frequently make requests of many different staff members, hoping someone will give in. Having only one decision-maker provides consistency and avoids the potential for playing one staff member against another. Positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors is more effective than negative reinforcement. The behavior should not be ignored; judicious use of confrontation is necessary. Patients with antisocial personality disorders rarely have feelings of fear and inferiority.

A nurse directs the intervention team who must take an aggressive patient to seclusion. Other patients were removed from the area. Before approaching the patient, the nurse should ensure that staff take which actions? Select all that apply. a. Remove jewelry, glasses, and harmful items from the patient and staff members. b. Appoint a person to clear a path and open, close, or lock doors. c. Quickly approach the patient, and grab the closest extremity. d. Select the person who will communicate with the patient. e. Move behind the patient to use the element of surprise.

a. Remove jewelry, glasses, and harmful items from the patient and staff members. b. Appoint a person to clear a path and open, close, or lock doors. d. Select the person who will communicate with the patient. Injury to staff members and to the patient should be prevented. Only one person should explain what will happen and direct the patient; this person might be the nurse or staff member who has a good relationship with the patient. A clear pathway is essential; those restraining a limb cannot use keys, move furniture, or open doors. The nurse is usually responsible for administering the medication once the patient is restrained. Each staff member should have an assigned limb rather than just grabbing the closest limb. This system could leave one or two limbs unrestrained. Approaching in full view of the patient reduces suspicion.

What is the priority intervention for a nurse beginning a therapeutic relationship with a patient diagnosed with a schizotypal personality disorder? a. Respect the patients need for periods of social isolation. b. Prevent the patient from violating the nurses rights. c. Engage the patient in many community activities. d. Teach the patient how to match clothing.

a. Respect the patients need for periods of social isolation. Patients diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder are eccentric and often display perceptual and cognitive distortions. They are suspicious of others and have considerable difficulty trusting. They become highly anxious and frightened in social situations, thus the need to respect their desire for social isolation. Teaching the patient to match clothing is not the priority intervention. Patients diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder rarely engage in behaviors that violate the nurses rights or exploit the nurse.

A patient with a high level of motor activity runs from chair to chair and cries, Theyre coming! Theyre coming! The patient is unable to follow instructions or respond to verbal interventions from staff. Which nursing diagnosis has the highest priority? a. Risk for injury b. Self-care deficit c. Disturbed energy field d. Disturbed thought processes

a. Risk for injury A patient who is experiencing panic-level anxiety is at high risk for injury, related to an increase in nongoal- directed motor activity, distorted perceptions, and disordered thoughts. Existing data do not support the nursing diagnoses of Self-care deficit or Disturbed energy field. This patient has disturbed thought processes, but the risk for injury has a higher priority.

A patient experiencing mania has not eaten or slept for 3 days. Which nursing diagnosis has priority? a. Risk for injury b. Ineffective coping c. Impaired social interaction d. Ineffective therapeutic regimen management

a. Risk for injury Although each of the nursing diagnoses listed is appropriate for a patient having a manic episode, the priority lies with the patients physiologic safety. Hyperactivity and poor judgment place the patient at risk for injury.

A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder is hospitalized several times after self-inflicted lacerations. The patient remains impulsive. Dialectical behavior therapy starts on an outpatient basis. Which nursing diagnosis is the focus of this therapy? a. Risk for self-mutilation b. Impaired skin integrity c. Risk for injury d. Powerlessness

a. Risk for self-mutilation Risk for self-mutilation is a nursing diagnosis relating to patient safety needs and is therefore a high priority. Impaired skin integrity and powerlessness may be appropriate foci for care but are not the priority or related to this therapy. Risk for injury implies accidental injury, which is not the case for the patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.

A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has a history of self-mutilation and suicide attempts. The patient reveals feelings of depression and anger with life. The psychiatrist suggests the use of a medication. Which type of medication should the nurse expect? a. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) b. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) c. Benzodiazepine d. Antipsychotic

a. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) SSRIs are used to treat depression. Many patients with borderline personality disorder are fearful of taking something over which they have little control. Because SSRIs have a good side effect profile, the patient is more likely to comply with the medication. Low-dose antipsychotic or anxiolytic medications are not supported by the data given in this scenario. MAOIs require great diligence in adherence to a restricted diet and are rarely used for patients who are impulsive.

An adult diagnosed with major depressive disorder was treated with medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. The patient now recognizes how passivity contributed to the depression. Which intervention should the nurse suggest? a. Social skills training b. Relaxation training classes c. Use of complementary therapy d. Learning desensitization techniques

a. Social skills training Social skills training is helpful in treating and preventing the recurrence of depression. Training focuses on assertiveness and coping skills that lead to positive reinforcement from others and the development of a patients support system. The use of complementary therapy refers to adjunctive therapies such as herbals. Assertiveness would be of greater value than relaxation training because passivity is a concern. Desensitization is used in the treatment of phobias.

A patient with a history of command hallucinations approaches the nurse, yelling obscenities. The patient mumbles and then walks away. The nurse follows. Which nursing actions are most likely to be effective in de- escalating this scenario? Select all that apply. a. State the expectation that the patient will stay in control. b. State that the patient cannot be understood when mumbling. c. Tell the patient, You are behaving inappropriately. d. Offer to provide the patient with medication to help. e. Speak in a firm but calm voice.

a. State the expectation that the patient will stay in control. d. Offer to provide the patient with medication to help. e. Speak in a firm but calm voice. Stating the expectation that the patient will maintain control of behavior reinforces positive, healthy behavior and avoids challenging the patient. Offering an as-needed medication provides support for the patient trying to maintain control. A firm but calm voice will likely comfort and calm the patient. Belittling remarks may lead to aggression. Criticism will probably prompt the patient to begin shouting.

Which behavior best demonstrates aggression? a. Stomping away from the nurses station, going to another room, and grabbing a snack from another patient. b. Bursting into tears, leaving the community meeting, and sitting on a bed hugging a pillow and sobbing. c. Telling the primary nurse, I felt angry when you said I could not have a second helping at lunch. d. Telling the medication nurse, I am not going to take that or any other medication you try to give me.

a. Stomping away from the nurses station, going to another room, and grabbing a snack from another patient. Aggression is harsh physical or verbal action that reflects rage, hostility, and the potential for physical or verbal destructiveness. Aggressive behavior violates the rights of others. The incorrect options do not feature violation of anothers rights.

An adult attempts suicide after declaring bankruptcy. The patient is hospitalized and takes an antidepressant medication for five days. 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 the discontinuation of suicide precautions.

a. Supervise the patient 24 hours a day. The patient now has more energy and may have decided on suicide, especially considering the history of the prior suicide attempt. The patient is still a suicide risk; therefore, continuous supervision is indicated.

What is the focus of priority nursing interventions for the period immediately after electroconvulsive therapy treatment? a. Supporting physiologic stability b. Reducing disorientation and confusion c. Monitoring pupillary responses d. Assisting the patient to identify and test negative thoughts

a. Supporting physiologic stability During the immediate post-treatment period, the patient is recovering from general anesthesia, hence the need to establish and support physiologic stability. Monitoring pupillary responses is not a priority. Reducing disorientation and confusion is an acceptable intervention but not the priority. Assisting the patient in identifying and testing negative thoughts is inappropriate in the immediate post-treatment period because the patient may be confused.

A professors 4-year-old child has a temperature of 101.6 F, diarrhea, and complains of stomach pain. The professor is scheduled to teach three classes today. Which actions by the professor demonstrate effective parenting? Select all that apply. a. Telephoning a grandparent to stay with the child at home for the day. b. Telephoning a colleague to teach his classes and staying home with the sick child. c. Taking the child to the university and keeping the child in a private office for the day. d. Taking the child to a daycare center and hoping daycare workers will not notice the child is sick. e. Giving the child one dose of ibuprofen (Motrin) and taking the child to the daycare center.

a. Telephoning a grandparent to stay with the child at home for the day. b. Telephoning a colleague to teach his classes and staying home with the sick child. The correct responses demonstrate fulfillment of the role as a parent. The distractors indicate the professor has not cared for the sick child in an effective way. Taking the child to a daycare center exposes other children to a potential infection. Taking the child to ones office does not keep the child comfortable or provide for the child while the professor is teaching.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder was hospitalized for 8 days. Treatment included six electroconvulsive therapy sessions and aggressive dose adjustments of antidepressant medications. The patient owns a small business and was counseled not to make major decisions for a month. Select the correct rationale for this counseling. a. Temporary memory impairments and confusion can be associated with electroconvulsive therapy. b. Antidepressant medications alter catecholamine levels, which impair decision-making abilities. c. Antidepressant medications may cause confusion related to a limitation of tyramine in the diet. d. The patient needs time to reorient himself or herself to a pressured work schedule.

a. Temporary memory impairments and confusion can be associated with electroconvulsive therapy. Recent memory impairment or confusion or both are often present during and for a short time after electroconvulsive therapy. An inappropriate business decision might be made because of forgotten and important details. The incorrect responses contain rationales that are untrue. The patient needing time to reorient himself or herself to a pressured work schedule is less relevant than the correct rationale.

A child is placed in a foster home after being removed from parental contact because of abuse. The child is apprehensive and overreacts to environmental stimuli. The foster parents ask the nurse how to help the child. What should the nurse recommend? Select all that apply. a. Use a calm manner and low voice. b. Maintain simplicity in the environment. c. Avoid repetition in what is said to the child. d. Minimize opportunities for exercise and play. e. Explain and reinforce reality to avoid distortions.

a. Use a calm manner and low voice. b. Maintain simplicity in the environment. e. Explain and reinforce reality to avoid distortions. The child can be hypothesized to have moderate-to-severe anxiety. A calm manner calms the child. A simple, structured, predictable environment is less anxiety provoking and reduces overreaction to stimuli. Calm, simple explanations that reinforce reality validate the environment. Repetition is often needed when the child is unable to concentrate because of elevated levels of anxiety. Opportunities for play and exercise should be provided as avenues to reduce anxiety. Physical movement helps channel and lower anxiety. Play also helps by allowing the child to act out concerns.

A nurse plans health teaching for a patient diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) who takes lorazepam (Ativan). What information should be included? Select all that apply. a. Use caution when operating machinery. b. Allow only tyramine-free foods in diet. c. Restrict intake of caffeine. d. Avoid using alcohol and other sedatives. e. Take the medication on an empty stomach.

a. Use caution when operating machinery. c. Restrict intake of caffeine. d. Avoid using alcohol and other sedatives. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that acts as an antagonist to the benzodiazepine lorazepam. Daily caffeine intake should be reduced to the amount contained in one cup of coffee. Benzodiazepines are sedatives, thus the importance of exercising caution when driving or using machinery and the importance of not using other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or sedatives to avoid potentiation. Benzodiazepines do not require a special diet. Food will reduce gastric irritation from the medication.

A patient being treated with paroxetine (Paxil) 50 mg/day orally for major depressive disorder reports to the clinic nurse, I took a few extra tablets earlier in the day and now I feel bad. Which aspects of the nursing assessment are most critical? Select all that apply. a. Vital signs b. Urinary frequency c. Increased suicidal ideation d. Presence of abdominal pain and diarrhea e. Hyperactivity or feelings of restlessness

a. Vital signs d. Presence of abdominal pain and diarrhea e. Hyperactivity or feelings of restlessness The patient is taking the maximum dose of this SSRI and has ingested an additional unknown amount of the drug. Central serotonin syndrome must be considered. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, hyperpyrexia, increased motor activity, and muscle spasms. Central serotonin syndrome may progress to a full medical emergency if not treated early. Although assessing for suicidal ideation is never inappropriate, in this situation physiologic symptoms should be the initial focus. The patient may have urinary retention, but frequency would not be expected.

An older adult takes digoxin and hydrochlorothiazide daily, as well as lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for anxiety. Over 2 days, this adult developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. These findings are most characteristic of: a. delirium. b. dementia. c. amnestic syndrome. d. Alzheimer disease.

a. delirium. Delirium is characterized by an abrupt onset of fluctuating levels of awareness, clouded consciousness, perceptual disturbances, and disturbed memory and orientation. The onset of dementia or Alzheimer disease, a type of dementia, is more insidious. Amnestic syndrome involves memory impairment without other cognitive problems.

A college student who attempted suicide by overdose is hospitalized. When the parents are contacted, they respond, There must be a mistake. This could not have happened. Weve given our child everything. The parents reaction reflects: a. denial. b. anger. c. anxiety. d. rescue feelings.

a. denial. The parents statements indicate denial. Denial or minimization of suicidal ideation or attempts is a defense against uncomfortable feelings. Family members are often unable to acknowledge suicidal ideation in someone close to them. The feelings suggested in the distractors are not clearly described in the scenario.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is taking a tricyclic antidepressant. The patient says, I dont think I can keep taking these pills. They make me so dizzy, especially when I stand up. The nurse should: a. explain how to manage postural hypotension, and educate the patient that side effects go away after several weeks. b. tell the patient that the side effects are a minor inconvenience compared with the feelings of depression. c. withhold the drug, force oral fluids, and notify the health care provider to examine the patient. d. teach the patient how to use pursed-lip breathing.

a. explain how to manage postural hypotension, and educate the patient that side effects go away after several weeks. Drowsiness, dizziness, and postural hypotension usually subside after the first few weeks of therapy with tricyclic antidepressants. Postural hypotension can be managed by teaching the patient to stay well hydrated and rise slowly. Knowing these facts may be enough to convince the patient to remain medication compliant. The minor inconvenience of side effects as compared with feelings of depression is a convincing reason to remain on the medication. Withholding the drug, forcing oral fluids, and having the health care provider examine the patient are unnecessary steps. Independent nursing action is appropriate. Pursed-lip breathing is irrelevant.

A student says, Before taking a test, I feel a heightened sense of awareness and restlessness. The nursing intervention most suitable for assisting the student is to: a. explain that the symptoms are the result of mild anxiety, and discuss the helpful aspects. b. advise the student to discuss this experience with a health care provider. c. encourage the student to begin antioxidant vitamin supplements. d. listen without comment.

a. explain that the symptoms are the result of mild anxiety, and discuss the helpful aspects. Teaching about the symptoms of anxiety, their relation to precipitating stressors, and, in this case, the positive effects of anxiety serves to reassure the patient. Advising the patient to discuss the experience with a health care provider implies that the patient has a serious problem. Listening without comment will do no harm but deprives the patient of health teaching. Antioxidant vitamin supplements are not useful in this scenario.

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. hopelessness. 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 health teaching plan for a patient taking lithium should include instructions to: a. maintain normal salt and fluids in the diet. b. drink twice the usual daily amount of fluids. c. double the lithium dose if diarrhea or vomiting occurs. d. avoid eating aged cheese, processed meats, and red wine.

a. maintain normal salt and fluids in the diet. Sodium depletion and dehydration increase the chance for developing lithium toxicity. The incorrect options offer inappropriate information.

A patient was responding to auditory hallucinations earlier in the morning. The patient approaches the nurse, shaking a fist and shouting, Back off! and then goes into the day room. As the nurse follows the patient into the day room, the nurse should: a. make sure adequate physical space exists between the nurse and the patient. b. move into a position that allows the patient to be close to the door. c. maintain one arms length distance from the patient. d. sit down in a chair near the patient.

a. make sure adequate physical space exists between the nurse and the patient. Making sure space is present between the nurse and the patient avoids invading the patients personal space. Personal space needs increase when a patient feels anxious and threatened. Allowing the patient to block the nurses exit from the room is not wise. Closeness may be threatening to the patient and provoke aggression. Sitting is inadvisable until further assessment suggests the patients aggression is abating. One arms length is inadequate space.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is being treated on an outpatient basis with lithium carbonate 300 mg three times daily. The patient complains of nausea. To reduce the nausea, the nurse can suggest that the lithium be taken with: a. meals. b. an antacid. c. a large glass of juice. d. an antiemetic medication.

a. meals. Some patients find that taking lithium with meals diminishes nausea. The incorrect options are less helpful.

A patient became depressed after the last of six children moved out of the home 4 months ago. The patient has been self-neglectful, slept poorly, lost weight, and repeatedly says, No one cares about me anymore. Im not worth anything. Select an appropriate initial outcome for the nursing diagnosis: Situational low self-esteem, related to feelings of abandonment. The patient will: a. verbalize realistic positive characteristics about self by (date) . b. consent to take antidepressant medication regularly by (date) . c. initiate social interaction with another person daily by (date) . d. identify two personal behaviors that alienate others by (date) .

a. verbalize realistic positive characteristics about self by (date) . Low self-esteem is reflected by making consistently negative statements about self and self-worth. Replacing negative cognitions with more realistic appraisals of self is an appropriate intermediate outcome. The incorrect options are not as clearly related to the nursing diagnosis. Outcomes are best when framed positively; identifying two personal behaviors that might alienate others is a negative concept.

An older adult drove to a nearby store but was unable to remember how to get home or state an address. When police took the person home, the spouse reported frequent wandering into neighbors homes. Alzheimer disease was subsequently diagnosed. Which stage of Alzheimer disease is evident? a. 1 (mild) b. 2 (moderate) c. 3 (moderate to severe) d. 4 (late)

b. 2 (moderate) In stage 2 (moderate), deterioration is evident. Memory loss may include the inability to remember addresses or the date. Activities such as driving may become hazardous, and frustration by the increasing difficulty of performing ordinary tasks may be experienced. Hygiene may begin to deteriorate. Stage 3 (moderate to severe) finds the individual unable to identify familiar objects or people and needing direction for the simplest of tasks. In stage 4 (late), the ability to talk and walk are eventually lost, and stupor evolves.

Which statement made by a patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder indicates the treatment plan is effective? a. I think you are the best nurse on the unit. b. Im never going to get high on drugs again. c. I hate my doctor for not giving me what I ask for. d. I felt empty and wanted to cut myself, so I called you.

d. I felt empty and wanted to cut myself, so I called you. Seeking a staff member instead of impulsively self-mutilating shows an adaptive coping strategy. The incorrect responses demonstrate idealization, devaluation, and wishful thinking.

The spouse of a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder asks what evidence supports the possibility of genetic transmission of bipolar disorders. Select the nurses best response. a. A high proportion of patients diagnosed with bipolar disorders are found among creative writers. b. A higher rate of relatives diagnosed with bipolar disorder is found among patients with bipolar disorder. c. Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder have higher rates of relatives who respond in an exaggerated way to daily stresses. d. More individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder come from high socioeconomic and educational backgrounds.

b. A higher rate of relatives diagnosed with bipolar disorder is found among patients with bipolar disorder. Evidence of genetic transmission is supported when twins or relatives of patients with a particular disorder also show an incidence of the disorder that is higher than the incidence in the general public. The incorrect options do not support the theory of genetic transmission of bipolar disorder.

A patient with burn injuries has had good coping skills for several weeks. Today, a new nurse is poorly organized and does not follow the patients usual schedule is. By mid-afternoon, the patient is angry and loudly complains to the nurse manager. Which is the nurse managers best response? a. Explain the reasons for the disorganization, and take over the patients care for the rest of the shift. b. Acknowledge and validate the patients distress and ask, What would you like to have happen? c. Apologize and explain that the patient will have to accept the situation for the rest of the shift. d. Ask the patient to control the anger and explain that allowances must be made for new staff members.

b. Acknowledge and validate the patients distress and ask, What would you like to have happen? When a patient with good coping skills is angry and overwhelmed, the goal is to reestablish a means of dealing with the situation. The nurse should solve the problem with the patient by acknowledging the patients feelings, validating them as understandable, apologizing if necessary, and then seeking an acceptable solution. Often patients can tell the nurse what they would like to have happen as a reasonable first step.

During a psychiatric assessment, the nurse observes a patients facial expressions that are without emotion. The patient says, Life feels so hopeless to me. Ive been feeling sad for several months. How should the nurse document the patients affect and mood? a. Affect depressed; mood flat b. Affect flat; mood depressed c. Affect labile; mood euphoric d. Affect and mood are incongruent

b. Affect flat; mood depressed Mood is a persons self-reported emotional feeling state. Affect is the emotional feeling state that is outwardly observable by others.

A patient says to the nurse, My life does not have any happiness in it anymore. I once enjoyed holidays, but now theyre just another day. How would the nurse document the complaint? a. Vegetative symptom b. Anhedonia c. Euphoria d. Anergia

b. Anhedonia Anhedonia is a common finding in many types of depression and refers to feelings of a loss of pleasure in formerly pleasurable activities. Vegetative symptoms refer to somatic changes associated with depression. Euphoria refers to an elated mood. Anergia means without energy.

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

b. Attending a self-help group for survivors 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 of a family member. Reminiscence therapy is not geared to loss resolution. Contracting for two sessions of group therapy would probably not provide sufficient time to work through the issues associated with a death by suicide.

A nurse plans the care for an individual diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Which characteristic behaviors will the nurse expect? Select all that apply. a. Reclusive behavior b. Callous attitude c. Perfectionism d. Aggression e. Clinginess f. Anxiety

b. Callous attitude d. Aggression Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders characteristically demonstrate manipulative, exploitative, aggressive, callous, and guilt-instilling behaviors. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders are more extroverted than reclusive, rarely show anxiety, and rarely demonstrate clinging or dependent behaviors. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders are more likely to be impulsive than to be perfectionists.

A nurse encourages an anxious patient to talk about feelings and concerns. What is the rationale for this intervention? a. Offering hope allays and defuses the patients anxiety. b. Concerns stated aloud become less overwhelming and help problem solving to begin. c. Anxiety is reduced by focusing on and validating what is occurring in the environment. d. Encouraging patients to explore alternatives increases the sense of control and lessens anxiety.

b. Concerns stated aloud become less overwhelming and help problem solving to begin. All principles listed are valid, but the only rationale directly related to the intervention of assisting the patient to talk about feelings and concerns is the one that states that concerns spoken aloud become less overwhelming and help problem solving to begin.

During morning care, a nursing assistant asks a patient diagnosed with dementia, How was your night? The patient replies, It was lovely. I went out to dinner and a movie with my friend. Which term applies to the patients response? a. Sundown syndrome b. Confabulation c. Perseveration d. Delirium

b. Confabulation Confabulation is the making up of stories or answers to questions by a person who does not remember. It is a defensive tactic to protect self-esteem and prevent others from noticing memory loss. The patients response was not sundown syndrome. Perseveration refers to repeating a word or phrase over and over. Delirium is not present in this scenario.

A nurse in the emergency department tells an adult, Your mother had a severe stroke. The adult tearfully says, Who will take care of me now? My mother always told me what to do, what to wear, and what to eat. I need someone to reassure me when I get anxious. Which term best describes this behavior? a. Histrionic b. Dependent c. Narcissistic d. Borderline

b. Dependent The main characteristic of the dependent personality is a pervasive need to be taken care of that leads to submissive behaviors and a fear of separation. Histrionic behavior is characterized by flamboyance, attention seeking, and seductiveness. Narcissistic behavior is characterized by grandiosity and exploitive behavior. Patients with borderline personality disorder demonstrate separation anxiety, impulsivity, and splitting.

A patient who is preparing for surgery has moderate anxiety and is unable to understand preoperative information. Which nursing intervention is appropriate? a. Reassure the patient that all nurses are skilled in providing postoperative care. b. Describe the procedure again in a calm manner, using simple language. c. Tell the patient that the staff is prepared to promote recovery. d. Encourage the patient to express feelings to his or her family.

b. Describe the procedure again in a calm manner, using simple language. Providing information in a calm, simple manner helps the patient grasp the important facts. Introducing extraneous topics as described in the incorrect options will further scatter the patients attention.

Which nursing diagnosis would most likely apply to both a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) as well as one experiencing acute mania? a. Deficient diversional activity b. Disturbed sleep pattern c. Fluid volume excess d. Defensive coping

b. Disturbed sleep pattern Patients diagnosed with mood disorders, both depression and mania, experience sleep pattern disturbances. Assessment data should be routinely gathered about this possible problem. Deficient diversional activity is more relevant for patients diagnosed with MDD. Defensive coping is more relevant for patients experiencing mania. Fluid volume excess is less relevant for patients diagnosed with mood disorders than is deficient fluid volume.

A nurse prepares the plan of care for a patient having a manic episode. Which nursing diagnoses are most likely? Select all that apply. a. Imbalanced nutrition: more than body requirements b. Disturbed thought processes c. Sleep deprivation d. Chronic confusion e. Social isolation

b. Disturbed thought processes c. Sleep deprivation People with mania are hyperactive and often do not take the time to eat and drink properly. Their high levels of activity consume calories; therefore deficits in nutrition may occur. Sleep is reduced. Their socialization is impaired but not isolated. Confusion may be acute but not chronic.

An adolescent tells the school nurse, My friend threatened to take an overdose of pills. The nurse talks to the friend who verbalized the suicide threat. The most critical question for the nurse to ask would be: 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. Do you have access to medications? The nurse must assess the patients access to the means to carry out the plan and, if there is access, alert the parents to remove them from the home. The other questions may be important to ask but are not the most critical.

A soldier returned home from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan and was diagnosed with post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The soldier says, If theres a loud noise at night, I get under my bed because I think were getting bombed. What type of experience has the soldier described? a. Illusion b. Flashback c. Nightmare d. Auditory hallucination

b. Flashback Flashbacks are dissociative reactions in which an individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event were recurring. Illusions are misinterpretations of stimuli; although the experience is similar, the more accurate term is flashback because of the diagnosis of PTSD. Auditory hallucinations have no external stimuli. Nightmares commonly accompany PTSD, but this experience is stimulated by an actual environmental sound.

A patient diagnosed with severe dementia no longer recognizes family members and becomes anxious and agitated when they attempt reorientation. Which alternative could the nurse suggest to the family members? a. Wear large name tags. b. Focus interaction on familiar topics. c. Frequently repeat the reorientation strategies. d. Strategically place large clocks and calendars.

b. Focus interaction on familiar topics. Reorientation may seem like arguing to a patient experiencing cognitive deficits and increases the patients anxiety. Validating, talking with the patient about familiar, meaningful things, and reminiscing give meaning to existence both for the patient and family members. The option that suggests using validating techniques when communicating is the only option that addresses an interactional strategy. Wearing large name tags and strategically placing large clocks and calendars are reorientation strategies. Frequently repeating the reorientation strategies is inadvisable; patients with dementia sometimes become more agitated with reorientation.

Cortisol is released in response to a patients prolonged stress. Which initial effect would the nurse expect to result from the increased cortisol level? a. Diuresis and electrolyte imbalance b. Focused and alert mental status c. Drowsiness and lethargy d. Restlessness and anxiety

b. Focused and alert mental status Cortisol is the primary stress hormone and is released in response to prolonged stress. Cortisol helps supply cells with amino acids and fatty acids for energy supply, as well as diverting glucose from muscles for use by the brain. As a result, the brain stays alert and focused. The distractors present effects that would not be expected.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder and who takes lithium telephones the nurse at the clinic to say, Ive had severe diarrhea 4 days. I feel very weak and unsteady when I walk. My usual hand tremor has gotten worse. What should I do? The nurse should advise the patient: a. Restrict oral fluids for 24 hours and stay in bed. b. Have someone bring you to the clinic immediately. c. Drink a large glass of water with 1 teaspoon of salt added. d. Take an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication hourly until the diarrhea subsides.

b. Have someone bring you to the clinic immediately. The symptoms described suggest lithium toxicity. The patient should have a lithium level drawn and may require further treatment. Because neurologic symptoms are present, the patient should not drive and should be accompanied by another person. The incorrect options will not address the patients symptoms. Restricting oral fluids will make the situation worse.

A patient has a history of impulsively acting out anger by striking others. Which would be an appropriate plan for avoiding such incidents? a. Explain that restraint and seclusion will be used if violence occurs. b. Help the patient identify incidents that trigger impulsive acting out. c. Offer one-on-one supervision to help the patient maintain control. d. Administer lorazepam (Ativan) every 4 hours to reduce the patients anxiety.

b. Help the patient identify incidents that trigger impulsive acting out. Identifying trigger incidents allows the patient and nurse to plan interventions to reduce irritation and frustration that lead to acting out anger and to put more adaptive coping strategies eventually into practice.

A patient experiencing acute mania has exhausted the staff members by noon. The patient has joked, manipulated, insulted, and fought all morning. Staff members are feeling defensive and fatigued. Which is the best action? a. Confer with the health care provider regarding use of seclusion for this patient. b. Hold a staff meeting to discuss consistency and limit-setting approaches. c. Conduct a meeting with all patients to discuss the behavior. d. Explain to the patient that the behavior is unacceptable.

b. Hold a staff meeting to discuss consistency and limit-setting approaches. When staff members are overwhelmed, the patient has succeeded in keeping the environment unsettled and avoided outside controls on behavior. Staff meetings can help minimize staff splitting and feelings of anger, helplessness, confusion, and frustration. Criteria for seclusion have not been met.

A patient recently hospitalized for two weeks committed suicide during the night. Which initial measure will be most helpful for staff members and other patients regarding this event? a. Request the public information officer to make an announcement to the local media. b. Hold a staff meeting to express feelings and plan the care for other patients. c. Ask the patients roommate not to discuss the event with other patients. d. Quickly discharge as many patients as possible to prevent panic.

b. Hold a staff meeting to express feelings and plan the care for other patients. Interventions should be aimed at helping the staff and patients come to terms with the loss and to grow because of the incident. Then, a community meeting should be scheduled to allow other patients to express their feelings and request help. Staff members should be prepared to provide additional support and reassurance to patients and should seek opportunities for peer support. The incorrect options will not control information or may result in unsafe care.

As part of the stress response, the HPA axis is stimulated. Which structures make up this system? a. Hippocampus, parietal lobe, and amygdala b. Hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands c. Hind brain, pyramidal nervous system, and anterior cerebrum d. Hepatic artery, parasympathetic nervous system, and acoustic nerve

b. Hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands As part of the physiologic response of stress, the hypothalamus stimulates the HPA axis, which is made up of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands.

Which statement by a patient during an assessment interview should alert the nurse to the patients need for immediate, active intervention? a. I am mixed up, but I know I need help. b. I have no one for help or support. c. It is worse when you are a person of color. d. I tried to get attention before I shot myself.

b. I have no one for help or support. Lack of social support and social isolation increase the suicide risk. The willingness to seek help lowers the risk. Being a person of color does not suggest a higher risk; more whites commit suicide than do individuals of other racial groups. Attention seeking is not correlated with a higher risk of suicide.

A soldier returns to the United States from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan. The soldier is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which comment by the soldier requires the nurses immediate attention? a. Its good to be home. I missed my family and friends. b. I saw my best friend get killed by a roadside bomb. It should have been me instead. c. Sometimes I think I hear bombs exploding, but its just the noise of traffic in my hometown. d. I want to continue my education but Im not sure how I will fit in with other college students.

b. I saw my best friend get killed by a roadside bomb. It should have been me instead. The correct response indicates the soldier is thinking about death and feeling survivors guilt. These emotions may accompany suicidal ideation, which warrants the nurses follow-up assessment. Suicide is a high risk among military personnel diagnosed with PTSD. One distractor indicates flashbacks, which is common with individuals with PTSD but is not solely indicative of further problems. The other distractors are normal emotions associated with returning home and change.

A patient diagnosed with stage 1 Alzheimer disease tires easily and prefers to stay home rather than attend social activities. The spouse does the grocery shopping because the patient cannot remember what to buy. Which nursing diagnosis applies at this time? a. Risk for injury b. Impaired memory c. Self-care deficit d. Caregiver role strain

b. Impaired memory Memory impairment is present and expected in stage 1 Alzheimer disease. Patients diagnosed with early Alzheimer disease often have difficulty remembering names, so socialization is minimized. Data are not present to support the other diagnoses.

A patient experiencing acute mania waves a newspaper and says, I must have my credit card and use the computer right now. A store is having a big sale and I need to order 10 dresses and four pairs of shoes. Select the nurses most appropriate intervention. a. Suggest to the patient to ask a friend do the shopping and bring purchases to the unit. b. Invite the patient to sit with the nurse and look at new fashion magazines. c. Tell the patient that computer use is not allowed until self-control improves. d. Ask whether the patient has enough money to pay for the purchases.

b. Invite the patient to sit with the nurse and look at new fashion magazines. Situations such as this offer an opportunity to use the patients distractibility to the staffs advantage. Patients become frustrated when staff members deny requests that the patient sees as entirely reasonable. Distracting the patient can avoid power struggles. Suggesting that a friend do the shopping would not satisfy the patients need for immediacy and would ultimately result in the extravagant expenditure. Asking whether the patient has enough money would likely precipitate an angry response.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder tells the nurse, Bad things that happen are always my fault. To assist the patient in reframing this overgeneralization, the nurse should respond: a. I really doubt that one person can be blamed for all the bad things that happen. b. Lets look at one bad thing that happened to see if another explanation exists. c. You are being exceptionally hard on yourself when you say those things. d. How does your belief in fate relate to your cultural heritage?

b. Lets look at one bad thing that happened to see if another explanation exists. By questioning a faulty assumption, the nurse can help the patient look at the premise more objectively and reframe it as a more accurate representation of fact. The incorrect responses are judgmental, irrelevant to an overgeneralization, and cast doubt without requiring the patient to evaluate the statement.

A patient with a mass in the left upper lobe of the lung is scheduled for a biopsy. The patient has difficulty understanding the nurses comments and asks, What are they going to do? Assessment findings include a tremulous voice, respirations 28 breaths per minute, and pulse rate 110 beats per minute. What is the patients level of anxiety? a. Mild b. Moderate c. Severe d. Panic

b. Moderate Moderate anxiety causes the individual to grasp less information and reduces his or her problem-solving ability to a less-than-optimal level. Mild anxiety heightens attention and enhances problem-solving abilities. Severe anxiety causes great reduction in the perceptual field. Panic-level anxiety results in disorganized behavior.

An adult patient assaults another patient and is restrained. One hour later, which statement by this restrained patient necessitates the nurses immediate attention? a. I hate all of you! b. My fingers are tingly. c. You wait until I tell my lawyer. d. It was not my fault. The other patient started it.

b. My fingers are tingly. The correct response indicates impaired circulation and necessitates the nurses immediate attention. The incorrect responses indicate that the patient has continued aggressiveness and agitation.

At a unit meeting, staff members discuss the decor for a special room for patients experiencing mania. Select the best option. a. Extra-large window with a view of the street b. Neutral walls with pale, simple accessories c. Brightly colored walls and print drapes d. Deep colors for walls and upholstery

b. Neutral walls with pale, simple accessories The environment for a patient experiencing mania should be as simple and as nonstimulating as possible. Patients experiencing mania are highly sensitive to environmental distractions and stimulation. Draperies present a risk for injury.

A new patient immediately requires seclusion on admission. The assessment is incomplete, and no prescriptions have been written. Immediately after safely secluding the patient, which action has priority? a. Provide an opportunity for the patient to go to the bathroom. b. Notify the health care provider and obtain a seclusion order. c. Notify the hospital risk manager. d. Debrief the staff.

b. Notify the health care provider and obtain a seclusion order. Emergency seclusion can be effected by a credentialed nurse but must be followed by securing a medical order within the period specified by the state and agency. The incorrect options are not immediately necessary from a legal standpoint.

A patient diagnosed with Alzheimer disease wanders at night. Which action should the nurse recommend for a family to use in the home to enhance safety? a. Place throw rugs on tile or wooden floors. b. Place locks at the tops of doors. c. Encourage daytime napping. d. Obtain a bed with side rails.

b. Place locks at the tops of doors. Placing door locks at the top of the door makes it more difficult for the patient with dementia to unlock the door because the ability to look up and reach upward is diminished. All throw rugs should be removed to prevent falls. The patient will try to climb over side rails, increasing the risk for injury and falls. Day napping should be discouraged with the hope that the patient will sleep during the night.

A patient experiencing mania dances around the unit, seldom sits, monopolizes conversations, interrupts, and intrudes. Which nursing intervention will best assist the patient with energy conservation?a. Monitor physiologic functioning b. Provide a subdued environment c. Supervise personal hygiene d. Observe for mood changes

b. Provide a subdued environment All the options are reasonable interventions with a patient with acute mania, but providing a subdued environment directly relates to the outcome of energy conservation by decreasing stimulation and helping balance activity and rest.

What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient experiencing fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and visual and tactile hallucinations? a. Bathing/hygiene self-care deficit, related to altered cerebral function, as evidenced by confusion and inability to perform personal hygiene tasks b. Risk for injury, related to altered cerebral function, misperception of the environment, and unsteady gait c. Disturbed thought processes, related to medication intoxication, as evidenced by confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations d. Fear, related to sensory perceptual alterations, as evidenced by hiding from imagined ferocious dogs

b. Risk for injury, related to altered cerebral function, misperception of the environment, and unsteady gait The physical safety of the patient is the highest priority among the diagnoses given. Many opportunities for injury exist when a patient misperceives the environment as distorted, threatening, or harmful; when the patient exercises poor judgment; and when the patients sensorium is clouded. The other diagnoses may be concerns but are lower priorities.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is in the maintenance phase of treatment. The patient asks, Do I have to keep taking this lithium even though my mood is stable now? Select the nurses most appropriate response. a. You will be able to stop the medication in approximately 1 month. b. Taking the medication every day helps prevent relapses and recurrences. c. Usually patients take this medication for approximately 6 months after discharge. d. Its unusual that the health care provider has not already stopped your medication.

b. Taking the medication every day helps prevent relapses and recurrences. Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder may be indefinitely maintained on lithium to prevent recurrences. Helping the patient understand this need promotes medication compliance. The incorrect options offer incorrect or misleading information.

A patient with a history of anger and impulsivity is hospitalized after an accident resulting in injuries. When in pain, the patient loudly scolds the nursing staff for not knowing enough to give me pain medicine when I need it. Which nursing intervention would best address this problem? a. Tell the patient to notify nursing staff 30 minutes before the pain returns so the medication can be prepared. b. Urge the health care provider to change the prescription for pain medication from as needed to a regular schedule. c. Tell the patient that verbal assaults on nurses will not shorten the wait for pain medication. d. Have the clinical nurse leader request a psychiatric consultation.

b. Urge the health care provider to change the prescription for pain medication from as needed to a regular schedule. Scheduling the medication at specific intervals will help the patient anticipate when the medication can be given. Receiving the medication promptly on schedule, rather than expecting nurses to anticipate the pain level, should reduce anxiety and anger. The patient cannot predict the onset of pain before it occurs.

A nurse wants to reinforce positive self-esteem for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Today, the patient is wearing a new shirt and has neat, clean hair. Which remark is most appropriate? a. You look nice this morning. b. You are wearing a new shirt. c. I like the shirt youre wearing. d. You must be feeling better today.

b. You are wearing a new shirt. Patients with depression usually see the negative side of things. The meaning of compliments may be altered to I didnt look nice yesterday or They didnt like my other shirt. Neutral comments such as an observation avoid negative interpretations. Saying You look nice or I like your shirt gives approval (nontherapeutic techniques). Saying You must be feeling better today is an assumption, which is nontherapeutic.

An intramuscular dose of antipsychotic medication needs to be given to a patient who is becoming increasingly more aggressive. The patient is in the day room. The nurse should enter the day room: a. and say, Would you like to come to your room and take some medication your doctor prescribed for you? b. accompanied by three staff members and say, Please come to your room so I can give you some medication that will help you feel more comfortable. c. and place the patient in a basket-hold and then say, I am going to take you to your room to give you an injection of medication to calm you. d. accompanied by two security guards and tell the patient, You can come to your room willingly so I can give you this medication, or the aide and I will take you there.

b. accompanied by three staff members and say, Please come to your room so I can give you some medication that will help you feel more comfortable. A patient gains feelings of security if he or she sees that others are present to help with control. The nurse gives a simple direction, honestly states what is going to happen, and reassures the patient that the intervention will be helpful. This positive approach assumes that the patient can act responsibly and will maintain control. Physical control measures should be used only as a last resort. The security guards are likely to intimidate the patient and increase feelings of vulnerability.

A patient develops mania after discontinuing lithium. New prescriptions are written to resume lithium twice daily and begin olanzapine (Zyprexa). The addition of olanzapine to the medication regimen will: a. minimize the side effects of lithium. b. bring hyperactivity under rapid control. c. enhance the antimanic actions of lithium. d. provide long-term control of hyperactivity.

b. bring hyperactivity under rapid control. Manic symptoms are controlled by lithium only after a therapeutic serum level is attained. Because this takes several days to accomplish, a drug with rapid onset is necessary to reduce the hyperactivity initially. Antipsychotic drugs neither enhance lithiums antimanic activity nor minimize the side effects. Lithium is used for long-term control.

A priority nursing intervention for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is: a. distracting the patient from self-absorption. b. carefully and inconspicuously observing the patient around the clock. c. allowing the patient to spend long periods alone in self-reflection. d. offering opportunities for the patient to assume a leadership role in the therapeutic milieu.

b. carefully and inconspicuously observing the patient around the clock. Approximately two thirds of people with depression contemplate suicide. Patients with depression who exhibit feelings of worthlessness are at higher risk. Regularly planned observations of the patient with depression may prevent a suicide attempt on the unit.

A patient tells the nurse, I wanted my health care provider to prescribe diazepam (Valium) for my anxiety disorder, but buspirone (BuSpar) was prescribed instead. Why? The nurses reply should be based on the knowledge that buspirone: a. does not produce blood dyscrasias. b. does not cause dependence. c. can be administered as needed. d. is faster acting than diazepam.

b. does not cause dependence. Buspirone is considered effective in the long-term management of anxiety because it is not habituating. Because it is long acting, buspirone is not valuable as an as-needed or as a fast-acting medication. The fact that buspirone does not produce blood dyscrasias is less relevant in the decision to prescribe buspirone.

This nursing diagnosis applies to a patient experiencing mania: Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to insufficient caloric intake and hyperactivity as evidenced by 5-pound weight loss in 4 days. Select the most appropriate outcome. The patient will: a. ask staff for assistance with feeding within 4 days. b. drink six servings of a high-calorie, high-protein drink each day. c. consistently sit with others for at least 30 minutes at mealtime within 1 week. d. consistently wear appropriate attire for age and sex within 1 week while in the psychiatric unit.

b. drink six servings of a high-calorie, high-protein drink each day. High-calorie, high-protein food supplements will provide the additional calories needed to offset the patients extreme hyperactivity. Sitting with others or asking for assistance does not mean the patient will eat or drink. Appropriate attire is unrelated to the nursing diagnosis.

Which assessment finding presents the greatest risk for violent behavior? A patient who: a. is severely agoraphobic. b. has a history of intimate partner violence. c. demonstrates bizarre somatic delusions. d. verbalizes hopelessness and powerlessness.

b. has a history of intimate partner violence. A history of prior aggression or violence is the best predictor of patients who may become violent. Patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders are not particularly prone to violence unless panic occurs. Patients experiencing hopelessness and powerlessness may have co-existing anger, but violence is not often demonstrated. Patients experiencing paranoid delusions are at greater risk for violence than those with bizarre somatic delusions.

Which common assessment finding would be most applicable to a patient diagnosed with any personality disorder? The patient: a. demonstrates behaviors that cause distress to self rather than to others. b. has self-esteem issues, despite his or her outward presentation. c. usually becomes psychotic when exposed to stress. d. does not experience real distress from symptoms.

b. has self-esteem issues, despite his or her outward presentation. Self-esteem issues are present, despite patterns of withdrawal, grandiosity, suspiciousness, or unconcern. They seem to relate to early life experiences and are reinforced through unsuccessful experiences in loving and working. Personality disorders involve lifelong, inflexible, dysfunctional, and deviant patterns of behavior that cause distress to others and, in some cases, to self. Patients with personality disorders may experience very real anxiety and distress when stress levels rise. Some individuals with personality disorders, but not all, may decompensate and show psychotic behaviors under stress.

Which scenario best demonstrates an example of eustress? An individual: a. loses a beloved family pet. b. prepares to take a 1 week vacation to a tropical island with a group of close friends. c. receives a bank notice there were insufficient funds in their account for a recent rent payment. d. receives notification that their current employer is experiencing financial problems and some workers will be terminated.

b. prepares to take a 1 week vacation to a tropical island with a group of close friends. Eustress is beneficial stress; it motivates people to develop skills they need to solve problems and meet personal goals. Positive life experiences produce eustress. Going on a tropical vacation is an exciting, relaxing experience and an example of eustress. Losing the family pet, worrying about employment security, and having financial problems are examples of distress, a negative experience that drains energy and can lead to significant emotional problems.

A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has self-inflicted wrist lacerations. The health care provider prescribes daily dressing changes. The nurse performing this care should: a. encourage the patient to express anger. b. provide care in a matter-of-fact manner. c. be very kind, sympathetic, and concerned. d. offer to listen to the patients feelings about cutting.

b. provide care in a matter-of-fact manner. A matter-of-fact approach does not provide the patient with positive reinforcement for self-mutilation. The goal of providing emotional consistency is supported by this approach. The incorrect options provide positive reinforcement of the behavior.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. Priority information given to the patient and family should include a directive to: a. avoid exposure to bright sunlight. b. report increased suicidal thoughts. c. restrict sodium intake to 1 g daily. d. maintain a tyramine-free diet.

b. report increased suicidal thoughts. Some evidence indicates that suicidal ideation may worsen at the beginning of antidepressant therapy; thus close monitoring is necessary. Avoiding exposure to bright sunlight and restricting sodium intake are unnecessary. Tyramine restriction is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) therapy.

A nurse set limits for a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder. The patient tells the nurse, You used to care about me. I thought you were wonderful. Now I can see I was mistaken. Youre terrible. This outburst can be assessed as: a. denial. b. splitting. c. reaction formation. d. separation-individuation strategies.

b. splitting. Splitting involves loving a person and then hating the person; the patient is unable to recognize that an individual can have both positive and negative qualities. Denial is an unconscious motivated refusal to believe something. Reaction formation involves unconsciously doing the opposite of a forbidden impulse. Separation- individuation strategies refer to childhood behaviors related to developing independence from the caregiver.

Which description best applies to a hallucination? A patient: a. looks at shadows on a wall and says, I see scary faces. b. states, I feel bugs crawling on my legs and biting me. c. becomes anxious when the nurse leaves his or her bedside. d. tries to hit the nurse when vital signs are taken.

b. states, I feel bugs crawling on my legs and biting me. Hallucination is a false sensory perception occurring without a corresponding sensory stimulus. Feeling bugs on the body when none are present is a tactile hallucination. Misinterpreting shadows as faces is an illusion. An illusion is a misinterpreted sensory perception. The incorrect options are examples of behaviors that sometimes occur during delirium and are related to fluctuating levels of awareness and misinterpreted stimuli.

Which characteristic of individuals diagnosed with personality disorders makes it most necessary for staff to schedule frequent meetings? a. Ability to achieve true intimacy b. Flexibility and adaptability to stress c. Ability to evoke interpersonal conflict d. Inability to develop trusting relationships

c. Ability to evoke interpersonal conflict Frequent team meetings are held to counteract the effects of the patients attempts to split staff and set them against one another, causing interpersonal conflict. Patients with personality disorders are inflexible and demonstrate maladaptive responses to stress. They are usually unable to develop true intimacy with others and are unable to develop trusting relationships. Although problems with trust may exist, it is not the characteristic that requires frequent staff meetings.

Which experiences are most likely to precipitate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Select all that apply. a. An 8-year-old child watches an R-rated movie with both parents. b. A young adult jumps from a bridge with a bungee cord with a best friend. c. An adolescent is kidnapped and held for 2 years in the home of a sexual predator. d. A passenger is in a bus that overturns on a sharp curve in the road, tumbling down an embankment. e. An adult is trapped for 3 hours at an angle in an elevator after a portion of the supporting cable breaks.

c. An adolescent is kidnapped and held for 2 years in the home of a sexual predator. d. A passenger is in a bus that overturns on a sharp curve in the road, tumbling down an embankment. e. An adult is trapped for 3 hours at an angle in an elevator after a portion of the supporting cable breaks. PTSD usually follows a traumatic event that is outside the range of usual experience. Examples are childhood physical abuse, torture or kidnapping, military combat, sexual assault, and natural disasters such as floods, tornados, earthquakes, and tsunamis; human disasters such as a bus or elevator accident or crime-related events such being taken hostage are additional examples. The common element in these experiences is the individuals extraordinary helplessness or powerlessness in the face of such stressors. Bungee jumping by adolescents is part of the developmental task and might be frightening but in an exhilarating way rather than a harmful way. A child may be disturbed by an R-rated movie, but the presence of the parents would modify the experience in a positive way.

A patient with severe injuries is irritable, angry, and belittles the nurses. As a nurse changes a dressing, the patient screams, Dont touch me! You are so stupid. You will make it worse! Which intervention uses a cognitive technique to help this patient? a. Discontinue the dressing change without comments and leave the room. b. Stop the dressing change, saying, Perhaps you would like to change your own dressing. c. Continue the dressing change, saying, Do you know this dressing change is needed so your wound will not get infected? d. Continue the dressing change, saying, Unfortunately, you have no choice. Your doctor ordered this dressing change.

c. Continue the dressing change, saying, Do you know this dressing change is needed so your wound will not get infected? Anger is cognitively driven. The correct answer helps the patient test his cognitions and may help lower his anger. The incorrect options will escalate the patients anger by belittling or escalating the patients sense of powerlessness.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is hyperactive and manic after discontinuing lithium. The patient threatens to hit another patient. Which comment by the nurse is appropriate? a. Stop that! No one did anything to provoke an attack by you. b. If you do that one more time, you will be secluded immediately. c. Do not hit anyone. If you are unable to control yourself, we will help you. d. You know we will not let you hit anyone. Why do you continue this behavior?

c. Do not hit anyone. If you are unable to control yourself, we will help you. When the patient is unable to control his or her behavior and violates or threatens to violate the rights of others, limits must be set in an effort to de-escalate the situation. Limits should be set in simple, concrete terms. The incorrect responses do not offer appropriate assistance to the patient and threaten the patient with seclusion as punishment. Asking why does not provide for environmental safety.

Which assessment questions are most appropriate to ask a patient with possible obsessive-compulsive disorder? Select all that apply. a. Have you been a victim of a crime or seen someone badly injured or killed? b. Are there certain social situations that cause you to feel especially uncomfortable? c. Do you have to do things in a certain way to feel comfortable? d. Is it difficult to keep certain thoughts out of awareness? e. Do you do certain things over and over again?

c. Do you have to do things in a certain way to feel comfortable? d. Is it difficult to keep certain thoughts out of awareness? e. Do you do certain things over and over again? The correct questions refer to obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors. The incorrect responses are more pertinent to a patient with suspected post-traumatic stress disorder or with suspected social anxiety disorder (social phobia).

A patient diagnosed with a personality disorder has used manipulation to get his or her needs met. The staff decides to apply limit-setting interventions. What is the correct rationale for this action? a. It provides an outlet for feelings of anger and frustration. b. It respects the patients wishes so assertiveness will develop. c. External controls are necessary while internal controls are developed. d. Anxiety is reduced when staff members assume responsibility for the patients behavior.

c. External controls are necessary while internal controls are developed. A lack of internal controls leads to manipulative behaviors such as lying, cheating, conning, and flattering. To protect the rights of others, external controls must be consistently maintained until the patient is able to behave appropriately.

A nurse and patient construct a no-suicide contract. Select the preferable wording for the contract. 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 kill or harm myself in any way. d. I will not kill myself until I call my primary nurse or a member of the staff.

c. For the next 24 hours, I will not kill or harm myself in any way. 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 college student failed two tests. Afterward, the student cried for hours and then tried to telephone a parent but got no answer. The student then gave several expensive sweaters to a roommate. 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 a dorm room

c. Giving away sweaters Giving away prized possessions may signal that the individual thinks he or she will have no further need for the items, such as when a suicide plan has been formulated. Calling parents and crying do not provide clues to suicide, in and of themselves. Remaining in the dormitory would be an expected behavior because the student has nowhere else to go.

A patient is pacing the hall near the nurses station and swearing loudly. An appropriate initial intervention for the nurse would be to address the patient by name and say: a. Hey, whats going on? b. Please quiet down immediately. c. Id like to talk with you about how youre feeling right now. d. You must go to your room and try to get control of yourself.

c. Id like to talk with you about how youre feeling right now. Intervention should begin with an analysis of the patient and situation. With this response, the nurse is attempting to hear the patients feelings and concerns, which leads to the next step of planning an intervention. The incorrect responses are authoritarian, creating a power struggle between the patient and nurse.

The admission note indicates a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder has anergia and anhedonia. For which measures should the nurse plan? Select all that apply. a. Channeling excessive energy b. Reducing guilty ruminations c. Instilling a sense of hopefulness d. Assisting with self-care activities e. Accommodating psychomotor retardation

c. Instilling a sense of hopefulness d. Assisting with self-care activities e. Accommodating psychomotor retardation Anhedonia refers to the inability to find pleasure or meaning in life; thus planning should include measures to accommodate psychomotor retardation, assist with activities of daily living, and instill hopefulness. Anergia is the lack of energy, not excessive energy. Anhedonia does not necessarily imply the presence of guilty ruminations.

What is the priority need for a patient diagnosed with late-stage dementia? a. Promotion of self-care activities b. Meaningful verbal communication c. Maintenance of nutrition and hydration d. Prevention of the patient from wandering

c. Maintenance of nutrition and hydration In late-stage dementia, the patient often seems to have forgotten how to eat, chew, and swallow. Nutrition and hydration needs must be met if the patient is to live. The patient is incapable of self-care, ambulation, or verbal communication.

Which scenario predicts the highest risk for directing violent behavior toward others? a. Major depressive disorder with delusions of worthlessness b. Obsessive-compulsive disorder; performing many rituals c. Paranoid delusions of being followed by a military attack team d. Completion of alcohol withdrawal and beginning a rehabilitation program

c. Paranoid delusions of being followed by a military attack team The correct answer illustrates the greatest disruption of ability to perceive reality accurately. People who feel persecuted may strike out against those believed to be persecutors. The patients identified in the distractors have better reality-testing ability.

As a nurse prepares to administer a medication to a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder, the patient says, Just leave it on the table. Ill take it when I finish combing my hair. What is the nurses best response? a. Reinforce this assertive action by the patient. Leave the medication on the table as requested. b. Respond to the patient, Im worried that you might not take it. I will come back later. c. Say to the patient, I must watch you take the medication. Please take it now. d. Ask the patient, Why dont you want to take your medication now?

c. Say to the patient, I must watch you take the medication. Please take it now. The individual with a borderline personality disorder characteristically demonstrates manipulative, splitting, and self-destructive behaviors. Consistent limit setting is vital for the patients safety, as well as to prevent splitting other staff members. Why questions are not therapeutic.

Two patients in a residential care facility are diagnosed with dementia. One shouts to the other, Move along, youre blocking the road. The other patient turns, shakes a fist, and shouts, I know what youre up to; youre trying to steal my car. What is the nurses best action? a. Administer one dose of an antipsychotic medication to both patients. b. Reinforce reality. Say to the patients, Walk along in the hall. This is not a traffic intersection. c. Separate and distract the patients. Take one to the day room and the other to an activities area. d. Step between the two patients and say, Please quiet down. We do not allow violence here.

c. Separate and distract the patients. Take one to the day room and the other to an activities area. Separating and distracting prevents escalation from verbal to physical acting out. Neither patient loses self-esteem during this intervention. Medication is probably not necessary. Stepping between two angry, threatening patients is an unsafe action, and trying to reinforce reality during an angry outburst will probably not be successful when the patients are cognitively impaired.

A person has minor physical injuries after an automobile accident. The person is unable to focus and says, I feel like something awful is going to happen. This person has nausea, dizziness, tachycardia, and hyperventilation. What is this persons level of anxiety? a. Mild b. Moderate c. Severe d. Panic

c. Severe The person whose anxiety is severe is unable to solve problems and may have a poor grasp of what is happening in the environment. Somatic symptoms such as those described are usually present. The individual with mild anxiety is only mildly uncomfortable and may even find his or her performance enhanced. The individual with moderate anxiety grasps less information about a situation and has some difficulty with problem solving. The individual in panic-level anxiety demonstrates significantly disturbed behavior and may lose touch with reality.

A patients employment is terminated and major depressive disorder results. The patient says to the nurse, Im not worth the time you spend with me. Im the most useless person in the world. Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Powerlessness b. Defensive coping c. Situational low self-esteem d. Disturbed personal identity

c. Situational low self-esteem The patients statements express feelings of worthlessness and most clearly relate to the nursing diagnosis of Situational low self-esteem. Insufficient information exists to justify the other diagnoses.

A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is stimulated in response to this experience? a. Limbic system b. Peripheral nervous system c. Sympathetic nervous system d. Parasympathetic nervous system

c. Sympathetic nervous system The autonomic nervous system is made up of the sympathetic (fight-or-flight response) and parasympathetic (relaxation response) nervous systems. In times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated. A person fearful of heights would experience stress associated with the experience of driving across a high bridge. The peripheral nervous system responds to messages from the sympathetic nervous system. The limbic system processes emotional responses but is not specifically part of the autonomic nervous system.

A patient being treated for major depressive disorder has taken 300 mg amitriptyline (Elavil) daily for a year. The patient calls the case manager at the clinic and says, I stopped taking my antidepressant 2 days ago. Now I am having cold sweats, nausea, a rapid heartbeat, and nightmares. The nurse should advise the patient: a. Go to the nearest emergency department immediately. b. Do not to be alarmed. Take two aspirin and drink plenty of fluids. c. Take one dose of the antidepressant. Come to the clinic to see the health care provider. d. Resume taking the antidepressant for 2 more weeks, and then discontinue it again.

c. Take one dose of the antidepressant. Come to the clinic to see the health care provider. The patient has symptoms associated with abrupt withdrawal of the tricyclic antidepressant. Taking a dose of the drug will ameliorate the symptoms. Seeing the health care provider will allow the patient to discuss the advisability of going off the medication and to be given a gradual withdrawal schedule if discontinuation is the decision. This situation is not a medical emergency, although it calls for medical advice. Resuming taking the antidepressant for 2 more weeks and then discontinuing again would produce the same symptoms the patient is experiencing.

If a cruel and abusive person rationalizes this behavior, which comment is most characteristic of this person? a. I dont know why it happens. b. I have always had poor impulse control. c. That person should not have provoked me. d. Inside I am a coward who is afraid of being hurt.

c. That person should not have provoked me. Rationalization consists of justifying ones unacceptable behavior by developing explanations that satisfy the teller and attempt to satisfy the listener. The abuser is suggesting that the abuse is not his or her fault; it would not have occurred except for the provocation by the other person.

A nurse assesses the health status of soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Screening will be a priority for signs and symptoms of which health problems? Select all that apply. a. Schizophrenia b. Eating disorder c. Traumatic brain injury d. Seasonal affective disorder e. Post-traumatic stress disorder

c. Traumatic brain injury e. Post-traumatic stress disorder TBI and PTSD each occur in approximately 20% of soldiers returning from Afghanistan. Some soldiers have both problems. The incidence of disorders identified in the distractors would be expected to parallel the general population.

A cognitively impaired patient has been a widow for 30 years. This patient is frantically trying to leave the unit, saying, I have to go home to cook dinner before my husband arrives from work. To intervene with validation therapy, the nurse should first say: a. You must come away from the door. b. You have been a widow for many years. c. You want to go home to prepare your husbands dinner? d. Was your husband angry if you did not have dinner ready on time?

c. You want to go home to prepare your husbands dinner? Validation therapy meets the patient where she or he is at the moment and acknowledges the patients wishes. Validation does not seek to redirect, reorient, or probe. The incorrect options do not validate the patients feelings.

What is an appropriate initial outcome for a patient diagnosed with a personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? The patient will: a. identify when feeling angry. b. use manipulation only to get legitimate needs met. c. acknowledge manipulative behavior when it is called to his or her attention. d. accept fulfillment of his or her requests within an hour rather than immediately.

c. acknowledge manipulative behavior when it is called to his or her attention. Acknowledging manipulative behavior is an early outcome that paves the way for taking greater responsibility for controlling manipulative behavior at a later time. Identifying anger relates to anger and aggression control. Using manipulation to get legitimate needs is an inappropriate outcome. Ideally, the patient will use assertive behavior to promote the fulfillment of legitimate needs. Accepting fulfillment of requests within an hour rather than immediately relates to impulsivity and immediacy control.

A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and a history of self-mutilation has now begun dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) on an outpatient basis. Counseling focuses on self-harm behavior management. Today the patient telephones to say, Im feeling empty and want to cut myself. The nurse should: a. arrange for emergency inpatient hospitalization. b. send the patient to the crisis intervention unit for 8 to 12 hours. c. assist the patient to identify the trigger situation and choose a coping strategy. d. advise the patient to take an antianxiety medication to decrease the anxiety level.

c. assist the patient to identify the trigger situation and choose a coping strategy. The patient has responded appropriately to the urge for self-harm by calling a helping individual. A component of dialectical behavior therapy is telephone access to the therapist for coaching during crises. The nurse can assist the patient to choose an alternative to self-mutilation. The need for a protective environment may not be necessary if the patient is able to use cognitive strategies to determine a coping strategy that reduces the urge to mutilate. Taking a sedative and going to sleep should not be the first-line intervention; sedation may reduce the patients ability to weigh alternatives to mutilating behavior.

Alprazolam (Xanax) is prescribed for a patient experiencing acute anxiety. Health teaching should include instructions to: a. report drowsiness. b. eat a tyramine-free diet. c. avoid alcoholic beverages. d. adjust dose and frequency based on anxiety level.

c. avoid alcoholic beverages. Drinking alcohol or taking other anxiolytic medications along with the prescribed benzodiazepine should be avoided because depressant effects of both drugs will be potentiated. Tyramine-free diets are necessary only with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Drowsiness is an expected effect and needs to be reported only if it is excessive. Patients should be taught not to deviate from the prescribed dose and schedule for administration.

Which finding indicates that a patient with moderate-to-severe anxiety has successfully lowered the anxiety level to mild? The patient: a. asks, Whats the matter with me? b. stays in a room alone and paces rapidly. c. can concentrate on what the nurse is saying. d. states, I dont want anything to eat. My stomach is upset.

c. can concentrate on what the nurse is saying. The ability to concentrate and attend to reality is increased slightly in mild anxiety and decreased in moderate-, severe-, and panic-level anxiety. Patients with high levels of anxiety often ask, Whats the matter with me? Staying in a room alone and pacing suggest moderate anxiety. Expressing a lack of hunger is not necessarily a criterion for evaluating anxiety.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder has rapid cycles. The health care provider prescribes an anticonvulsant medication. To prepare teaching materials, which drug should the nurse anticipate will be prescribed? a. phenytoin (Dilantin) b. clonidine (Catapres) c. carbamazepine (Tegretol) d. chlorpromazine (Thorazine)

c. carbamazepine (Tegretol) Some patients with bipolar disorder, especially those who have only short periods between episodes, have a favorable response to the anticonvulsants carbamazepine and valproate. Phenytoin is also an anticonvulsant but is not used for mood stabilization. Carbamazepine seems to work better in patients with rapid cycling and in severely paranoid, angry patients with manic episodes.

A patient experiencing acute mania is dancing atop the pool table in the recreation room. The patient waves a cue in one hand and says, Ill throw the pool balls if anyone comes near me. The nurses first intervention is to: a. tell the patient, You need to be secluded. b. help the patient down from the table. c. clear the room of all other patients. d. assemble a show of force.

c. clear the room of all other patients. Safety is of primary importance. Once other patients are out of the room, a plan for managing this patient can be implemented. A show of force is likely to frighten the patient and increase this risk for violence.

When counseling patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder, an advanced practice nurse will address the negative thought patterns by using: a. psychoanalytic therapy. b. desensitization therapy. c. cognitive behavioral therapy. d. alternative and complementary therapies.

c. cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy attempts to alter the patients dysfunctional beliefs by focusing on positive outcomes rather than negative attributions. The patient is also taught the connection between thoughts and resultant feelings. Research shows that cognitive behavioral therapy involves the formation of new connections among nerve cells in the brain and that it is at least as effective as medication. Evidence does not support superior outcomes for the other psychotherapeutic modalities mentioned.

A nurse provided medication education for a patient who takes phenelzine (Nardil) for depression. Which behavior indicates effective learning? The patient: a. monitors sodium intake and weight daily. b. wears support stockings and elevates the legs when sitting. c. consults the pharmacist when selecting over-the-counter medications. d. can identify foods with high selenium content, which should be avoided.

c. consults the pharmacist when selecting over-the-counter medications. Over-the-counter medicines may contain vasopressor agents or tyramine, a substance that must be avoided when the patient takes MAOI antidepressants. Medications for colds, allergies, or congestion or any preparation that contains ephedrine or phenylpropanolamine may precipitate a hypertensive crisis. MAOI antidepressant therapy is unrelated to the need for sodium limitation, support stockings, or leg elevation. MAOIs interact with tyramine-containing foods, not selenium, to produce dangerously high blood pressure.

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 the lethality of a suicide plan. b. encourage expression of anger. c. establish a rapport with the patient. d. determine risk factors for suicide.

c. establish a rapport with the patient. Establishing rapport will allow the nurse to obtain relevant assessment data such as the presence of a suicide plan, the lethality of a suicide plan, and the presence of risk factors for suicide.

A patient was started on escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago and now says, This medicine isnt working. The nurses best intervention would be to: a. discuss with the health care provider the need to change medications. b. reassure the patient that the medication will be effective soon. c. explain the time lag before antidepressants relieve symptoms. d. critically assess the patient for symptom relief.

c. explain the time lag before antidepressants relieve symptoms. Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. Between 1 and 3 weeks of treatment are usually necessary before a relief of symptoms occurs. This information is important to share with patients.

A patient has the nursing diagnosis Anxiety, related to __________, as evidenced by an inability to control compulsive cleaning. Which phrase correctly completes the etiologic portion of the diagnosis? a. ensuring the health of household members b. attempting to avoid interactions with others c. having persistent thoughts about bacteria, germs, and dirt d. needing approval for cleanliness from friends and family

c. having persistent thoughts about bacteria, germs, and dirt Many compulsive rituals accompany obsessive thoughts. The patient uses these rituals to relief anxiety. Unfortunately, the anxiety relief is short lived, and the patient must frequently repeat the ritual. The other options are unrelated to the dynamics of compulsive behavior.

A patient tells a nurse, My new friend is the most perfect person one could imaginekind, considerate, and good looking. I cant find a single flaw. This patient is demonstrating: a. denial. b. projection. c. idealization. d. compensation.

c. idealization. Idealization is an unconscious process that occurs when an individual attributes exaggerated positive qualities to another. Denial is an unconscious process that calls for the nurse to ignore the existence of the situation. Projection operates unconsciously and results in blaming behavior. Compensation results in the nurse unconsciously attempting to make up for a perceived weakness by emphasizing a strong point.

Consider these three drugs: divalproex (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and gabapentin (Neurontin). Which drug also belongs to this group? a. clonazepam (Klonopin) b. risperidone (Risperdal) c. lamotrigine (Lamictal) d. aripiprazole (Abilify)

c. lamotrigine (Lamictal) The three drugs in the stem of this question are all anticonvulsants. Lamotrigine is also an anticonvulsant. Clonazepam is an anxiolytic; aripiprazole and risperidone are antipsychotic drugs.

The most challenging nursing intervention for patients diagnosed with personality disorders who use manipulation to get their needs met is: a. supporting behavioral change. b. monitoring suicide attempts. c. maintaining consistent limits. d. using aversive therapy.

c. maintaining consistent limits. Maintaining consistent limits is by far the most difficult intervention because of the patients superior skills at manipulation. Supporting behavioral change and monitoring patient safety are less difficult tasks. Aversive therapy would probably not be part of the care plan; positive reinforcement strategies for acceptable behavior are more effective than aversive techniques.

Consider these comments made to three different nurses by a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder: Youre a better nurse than the day shift nurse said you were; Another nurse said you dont do your job right; You think youre perfect, but Ive seen you make three mistakes. Collectively, these interactions can be assessed as: a. seductive. b. detached. c. manipulative. d. guilt producing.

c. manipulative. Patients manipulate and control staff members in various ways. By keeping staff members off balance or fighting among themselves, the person with an antisocial personality disorder is left to operate as he or she pleases. Seductive behavior has sexual connotations. The patient is displaying the opposite of detached behavior. Guilt is not evidenced in the comments.

When used for treatment of patients diagnosed with Alzheimer disease, which medication would be expected to antagonize N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) channels rather than cholinesterase? a. donepezil (Aricept) b. rivastigmine (Exelon) c. memantine (Namenda) d. galantamine (Razadyne)

c. memantine (Namenda) Memantine blocks the NMDA channels and is used in moderate-to-late stages of the disease. Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are all cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs increase the availability of acetylcholine and are most often used to treat mild-to-moderate Alzheimer disease.

Which medication should a nurse administer to provide immediate intervention for a psychotic patient whose aggressive behavior continues to escalate despite verbal intervention? a. lithium (Eskalith) b. trazodone (Desyrel) c. olanzapine (Zyprexa) d. valproic acid (Depakene)

c. olanzapine (Zyprexa) Olanzapine is a short-acting antipsychotic drug that is useful in calming angry, aggressive patients regardless of their diagnosis. The other drugs listed require long-term use to reduce anger. Lithium is for patients with bipolar disorder. Trazodone is for patients with depression, insomnia, or chronic pain. Valproic acid is for patients with bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder.

A patient diagnosed with pneumonia has been hospitalized for 4 days. Family members describe the patient as a difficult person who finds fault with others. The patient verbally abuses nurses for providing poor care. The most likely explanation for this behavior lies in: a. poor childrearing that did not teach respect for others. b. automatic thinking, leading to cognitive distortion. c. personality style that externalizes problems. d. delusions that others wish to deliver harm.

c. personality style that externalizes problems. Patients whose personality style causes them to externalize blame see the source of their discomfort and anxiety as being outside themselves. They displace anger and are often unable to soothe themselves. The incorrect options are less likely to have a bearing on this behavior.

A patient experiencing acute mania undresses in the group room and dances. The nurses first intervention would be to: a. quietly ask the patient, Why dont you put on your clothes? b. firmly tell the patient, Stop dancing, and put on your clothing. c. put a blanket around the patient, and walk with the patient to a quiet room. d. allow the patient stay in the group room. Move the other patients to a different area.

c. put a blanket around the patient, and walk with the patient to a quiet room. Patients must be protected from the embarrassing consequences of their poor judgment whenever possible. Protecting the patient from public exposure by matter-of-factly covering the patient and removing him or her from the area with a sufficient number of staff members to avoid argument and provide control is an effective approach.

Outcome identification for the treatment plan of a patient with grandiose thinking associated with acute mania focuses on: a. maintaining an interest in the environment. b. developing an optimistic outlook. c. self-control of distorted thinking. d. stabilizing the sleep pattern.

c. self-control of distorted thinking. The desired outcome is that the patient will be able to control the grandiose thinking associated with acute mania as evidenced by making realistic comments about self, abilities, and plans. Patients with acute mania are already unduly optimistic as a result of their use of denial, and they are overly interested in their environment. Sleep stability is a desired outcome but is not related to distorted thought processes.

A patient tells the nurse, I dont go to restaurants because people might laugh at the way I eat, or I could spill food and be laughed at. The nurse assesses this behavior as consistent with: a. acrophobia. b. agoraphobia. c. social anxiety disorder (social phobia). d. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

c. social anxiety disorder (social phobia). The fear of a potentially embarrassing situation represents social anxiety disorder (social phobia). Acrophobia is the fear of heights. Agoraphobia is the fear of a place in the environment. Post-traumatic stress disorder is associated with a major traumatic event.

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. suicide potential. 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 appropriate categories to provide information on the other options listed.

When a patients aggression quickly escalates, which principle applies to the selection of nursing interventions? a. Staff members should match the patients affective level and tone of voice. b. Ask the patient what intervention would be most helpful. c. Immediately use physical containment measures. d. Begin with the least restrictive measure possible.

d. Begin with the least restrictive measure possible. Standards of care require that staff members use the least restrictive measure possible. This becomes the guiding principle for intervention. Physical containment is seldom the least restrictive measure. Asking the out- of-control patient what to do is rarely helpful. It may be an effective strategy during the preassaultive phase but is less effective during escalation.

Select the most helpful response for a nurse to make when a patient being treated as an outpatient states, I am considering suicide. a. Im glad you shared this. Please do not worry. We will handle it together. b. I think you should admit yourself to the hospital to get help. c. We need to talk about the good things you have to live for. d. Bringing this up is a very positive action on your part.

d. Bringing this up is a very positive action on your part. This response gives the patient reinforcement 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 patients ambivalence and sets the stage for more realistic problem- solving strategies.

A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder has been hospitalized for 7 days and has taken lithium 600 mg three times daily. Staff members observe increased agitation, pressured speech, poor personal hygiene, hyperactivity, and bizarre clothing. What is the nurses best intervention? a. Educate the patient about the proper ways to perform personal hygiene and coordinate clothing. b. Continue to monitor and document the patients speech patterns and motor activity. c. Ask the health care provider to prescribe an increased dose and frequency of lithium. d. Consider the need to check the lithium level. The patient may not be swallowing medications.

d. Consider the need to check the lithium level. The patient may not be swallowing medications. The patient is continuing to exhibit manic symptoms. The lithium level may be low as a result of cheeking the medication. The prescribed dose is high, so one would not expect a need for the dose to be increased.

A patient experiencing fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alteration begs, Someone get these bugs off me. What is the nurses best response? a. There are no bugs on your legs. Your imagination is playing tricks on you. b. Try to relax. The crawling sensation will go away sooner if you can relax. c. Dont worry. I will have someone stay here and brush off the bugs for you. d. I dont see any bugs, but I know you are frightened so I will stay with you.

d. I dont see any bugs, but I know you are frightened so I will stay with you. When hallucinations are present, the nurse should acknowledge the patients feelings and state the nurses perception of reality, but not argue. Staying with the patient increases feelings of security, reduces anxiety, offers the opportunity for reinforcing reality, and provides a measure of physical safety. Denying the patients perception without offering help does not emotionally support the patient. Telling the patient to relax makes the patient responsible for self-soothing. Telling the patient that someone will brush the bugs away supports the perceptual distortions.

A persons spouse filed charges of battery. The person has a long history of acting-out behaviors and several arrests. Which statement by the person suggests an antisocial personality disorder? a. I have a quick temper, but I can usually keep it under control. b. Ive done some stupid things in my life, but Ive learned a lesson. c. Im feeling terrible about the way my behavior has hurt my family. d. I hit because Im tired of being nagged. My spouse deserved the beating.

d. I hit because Im tired of being nagged. My spouse deserved the beating. The patient with an antisocial personality disorder often impulsively acts out feelings of anger and feels no guilt or remorse. Patients with antisocial personality disorders rarely seem to learn from experience or feel true remorse. Problems with anger management and impulse control are common.

A patient became severely depressed when the last of six children moved out of the home 4 months ago. The patient repeatedly says, No one cares about me. Im not worth anything. Which response by the nurse would be the most helpful? a. Things will look brighter soon. Everyone feels down once in a while. b. The staff here cares about you and wants to try to help you get better. c. It is difficult for others to care about you when you repeatedly say negative things about yourself. d. Ill sit with you for 10 minutes now and return for 10 minutes at lunchtime and again at 2:30 this afternoon.

d. Ill sit with you for 10 minutes now and return for 10 minutes at lunchtime and again at 2:30 this afternoon. Spending time with the patient at intervals throughout the day shows acceptance by the nurse and helps the patient establish a relationship with the nurse. The therapeutic technique is called offering self. Setting definite times for the therapeutic contacts and keeping the appointments show predictability on the part of the nurse, an element that fosters the building of trust. The incorrect responses would be difficult for a person with profound depression to believe, provide trite reassurance, and are counterproductive. The patient is unable to say positive things at this point.

A patient diagnosed with dementia no longer recognizes family members. The family asks how long it will be before their family member recognizes them when they visit. What is the nurses best reply? a. Your family member will never again be able to identify you. b. I think that is a question the health care provider should answer. c. One never knows. Consciousness fluctuates in persons with dementia. d. It is disappointing when someone you love no longer recognizes you.

d. It is disappointing when someone you love no longer recognizes you. Therapeutic communication techniques can assist family members to come to terms with the losses and irreversibility dementia imposes on both the loved one and themselves. Two of the incorrect responses close communication. The nurse should take the opportunity to foster communication. Consciousness does not fluctuate in patients with dementia.

A nurse counsels a patient with recent suicidal ideation. Which is the nurses most therapeutic comment? a. Lets make a list of all your problems and think of solutions for each one. b. Im happy youre 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. Lets consider which problems are most important and which are less important.

d. Lets consider which problems are most important and which are less important. The nurse helps the patient develop effective coping skills. He or she assists the patient to reduce the overwhelming effects of problems by prioritizing them. The incorrect options continue to present overwhelming approaches to problem solving.

A soldier returned home last year after deployment to a war zone. The soldiers spouse complains, We were going to start a family but now he wont talk about it. He will not look at children. I wonder if were going to make it as a couple. Select the nurses best response. a. Post-traumatic stress disorder often changes a persons sexual functioning. b. I encourage you to continue to participate in social activities where children are present. c. Have you talked with your spouse about these reactions? Sometimes we just need to confront behavior. d. Post-traumatic stress disorder often strains relationships. I will suggest some community resources for help and support.

d. Post-traumatic stress disorder often strains relationships. I will suggest some community resources for help and support. PSTD precipitates changes that often lead to divorce. Providing support to both the veteran and spouse is important. Confrontation will not be effective. Although providing information is important, ongoing support is more effective.

Which environmental adjustment should the nurse make for a patient experiencing delirium with perceptual alterations? a. Keep the patient by the nurses desk while the patient is awake. Provide rest periods in a room with a television on. b. Light the room brightly, day and night. Awaken the patient hourly to assess mental status. c. Maintain soft lighting day and night. Keep a radio on low volume continuously. d. Provide a well-lit room without glare or shadows. Limit noise and stimulation.

d. Provide a well-lit room without glare or shadows. Limit noise and stimulation. A quiet, shadow-free room offers an environment that produces the fewest sensory perceptual distortions for a patient experiencing cognitive impairment associated with delirium. The other options have the potential to produce increased perceptual alterations.

A patient is hospitalized after an arrest for breaking windows in the home of a former domestic partner. The history reveals childhood abuse by a punitive parent, torturing family pets and an arrest for disorderly conduct. Which nursing diagnosis has priority? a. Risk for injury b. Post-trauma response c. Disturbed thought processes d. Risk for other-directed violence

d. Risk for other-directed violence The defining characteristics for Risk for other-directed violence include a history of being abused as a child, having committed other violent acts, and demonstrating poor impulse control. The defining characteristics for the other diagnoses are not present in this scenario.

A woman gave birth to a healthy newborn 1 month ago. The patient now reports she cannot cope and is unable to sleep or eat. She says, I feel like a failure. This baby is the root of my problems. The priority nursing diagnosis is: a. Insomnia b. Ineffective coping c. Situational low self-esteem d. Risk for other-directed violence

d. Risk for other-directed violence When a new mother develops depression with a postpartum onset, ruminations or delusional thoughts about the infant often occur. The risk for harming the infant is increased; thus, it becomes the priority diagnosis. The other diagnoses are relevant but are of lower priority.

A patient is brought to the emergency department after a motorcycle accident. The patient is alert, responsive, and diagnosed with a broken leg. The patients vital signs are temperature (T), 98.6 F; pulse (P), 72 beats per minute (bpm); and respirations (R), 16 breaths per minute. After being informed that surgery is required for the broken leg, which vital sign readings would be expected? a. T, 98.6; P, 64; R, 14 b. T, 98.6; P, 68; R, 12 c. T, 98.6; P, 62; R, 16 d. T, 98.6; P, 84; R, 22

d. T, 98.6; P, 84; R, 22 The patient would experience stress associated with the anticipation of surgery. In times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system takes over (fight-or-flight response) and sends signals to the adrenal glands, thereby releasing norepinephrine. The circulating norepinephrine increases the heart rate. Respirations increase, bringing more oxygen to the lungs.

A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is receiving imipramine (Tofranil) 200 mg every night at bedtime. Which assessment finding would prompt the nurse to collaborate with the health care provider regarding potentially hazardous side effects of this drug? a. Dry mouth b. Blurred vision c. Nasal congestion d. Urinary retention

d. Urinary retention All the side effects mentioned are the result of the anticholinergic effects of the drug. Only urinary retention and severe constipation warrant immediate medical attention. Dry mouth, blurred vision, and nasal congestion may be less troublesome as therapy continues.

A patient diagnosed with stage 2 Alzheimer disease calls the police saying, An intruder is in my home. Police investigate and discover the patient misinterpreted a reflection in the mirror as an intruder. This phenomenon can be assessed as: a. hyperorality. b. aphasia. c. apraxia. d. agnosia.

d. agnosia. Agnosia is the inability to recognize familiar objects, parts of ones body, or ones own reflection in a mirror. Hyperorality refers to placing objects in the mouth. Aphasia refers to the loss of language ability. Apraxia refers to the loss of purposeful movements, such as being unable to dress.

A patient experiencing acute mania has disrobed in the hall three times in 2 hours. The nurse should: a. direct the patient to wear clothes at all times. b. ask if the patient finds clothes bothersome. c. tell the patient that others feel embarrassed. d. arrange for one-on-one supervision.

d. arrange for one-on-one supervision. A patient who repeatedly disrobes, despite verbal limit setting, needs more structure. One-on-one supervision may provide the necessary structure. Directing the patient to wear clothes at all times has not proved successful, considering the behavior has continued. Asking whether the patient is bothered by clothing serves no purpose. Telling the patient that others are embarrassed will not make a difference to the patient whose grasp of social behaviors is impaired by the illness.

A patient experiencing severe anxiety suddenly begins running and shouting, Im going to explode! The nurse should: a. say, Im not sure what you mean. Give me an example. b. chase after the patient, and give instructions to stop running. c. capture the patient in a basket-hold to increase feelings of control. d. assemble several staff members and state, We will help you regain control.

d. assemble several staff members and state, We will help you regain control. The safety needs of the patient and other patients are a priority. The patient is less likely to cause self-harm or hurt others when several staff members take responsibility for providing limits. The explanation given to the patient should be simple and neutral. Simply being told that others can help provide the control that has been lost may be sufficient to help the patient regain control. Running after the patient will increase the patients anxiety. More than one staff member is needed to provide physical limits if they become necessary. Asking the patient to give an example is futile; a patient in panic processes information poorly.

A patient checks and rechecks electrical cords related to an obsessive thought that the house may burn down. The nurse and patient explore the likelihood of an actual fire. The patient states that a house fire is not likely. This counseling demonstrates the principles of: a. flooding. b. desensitization. c. relaxation technique. d. cognitive restructuring.

d. cognitive restructuring. Cognitive restructuring involves the patient in testing automatic thoughts and drawing new conclusions. Desensitization involves a graduated exposure to a feared object. Relaxation training teaches the patient to produce the opposite of the stress response. Flooding exposes the patient to a large amount of undesirable stimuli in an effort to extinguish the anxiety response.

A person who feels unattractive repeatedly says, Although Im not beautiful, I am smart. This is an example of: a. repression. b. devaluation. c. identification. d. compensation.

d. compensation. Compensation is an unconscious process that allows an individual to make up for deficits in one area by excelling in another area to raise self-esteem. Repression unconsciously puts an idea, event, or feeling out of awareness. Identification is an unconscious mechanism calling for an imitation of the mannerisms or behaviors of another. Devaluation occurs when the individual attributes negative qualities to self or to others.

A person attempts suicide by overdose, is treated in the emergency department, and then hospitalized. What is the best initial outcome? 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 gestures or attempts to kill self for 24 hours.

d. exercise suicide self-restraint by refraining from gestures or attempts to kill self for 24 hours. 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.

A patient sits in silence for 20 minutes after a therapy appointment, appearing tense and vigilant. The patient abruptly stands and paces back and forth, clenching and unclenching fists, and then stops and stares in the face of a staff member. The patient is: a. demonstrating withdrawal. b. working through angry feelings. c. attempting to use relaxation strategies. d. exhibiting clues to potential aggression.

d. exhibiting clues to potential aggression. The description of the patients behavior shows the classic signs of someone whose potential for aggression is increasing.

Which understanding about individuals who attempt suicide will help a nurse plan the care for a suicidal patient? Every suicidal person should be considered: a. mentally ill. b. intent on dying. c. cognitively impaired. d. experiencing hopelessness.

d. experiencing hopelessness. Hopelessness is the characteristic common among people who attempt suicide. The incorrect options reflect myths about suicide. Not all who attempt suicide are intent on dying. Not all are mentally ill or cognitively impaired.

A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder self-inflicted wrist lacerations after gaining new privileges on the unit. The cause of the self-mutilation is probably related to: a. inherited disorder that manifests itself as an incapacity to tolerate stress. b. use of projective identification and splitting to bring anxiety to manageable levels. c. constitutional inability to regulate affect, predisposing to psychic disorganization. d. fear of abandonment associated with progress toward autonomy and independence.

d. fear of abandonment associated with progress toward autonomy and independence. Fear of abandonment is a central theme for most patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This fear is often exacerbated when patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder experience success or growth. The incorrect options are not associated with self-mutilation.

A disheveled patient with severe depression and psychomotor retardation has not bathed for several days. The nurse should: a. avoid forcing the issue. b. bring up the issue at the community meeting. c. calmly tell the patient, You must bathe daily. d. firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering.

d. firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering. When patients are unable to perform self-care activities, staff members must assist them rather than ignore the issue. Better grooming increases self-esteem. Calmly telling the patient to bathe daily and bringing up the issue at a community meeting are punitive.

When preparing to interview a patient diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, a nurse can anticipate the assessment findings will include: a. preoccupation with minute details; perfectionism. b. charm, drama, seductiveness; seeking admiration. c. difficulty being alone; indecisiveness, submissiveness. d. grandiosity, attention seeking, and arrogance.

d. grandiosity, attention seeking, and arrogance. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the characteristics of grandiosity, attention seeking, and arrogance are consistent with narcissistic personality disorder. Charm, drama, seductiveness, and admiration seeking are observed in patients diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder. Preoccupation with minute details and perfectionism are observed in individuals diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. Patients diagnosed with dependent personality disorder often express difficulty being alone and are indecisive and submissive.

A nurse worked with a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder who was severely withdrawn and dependent on others. After 3 weeks, the patient did not improve. The nurse is at risk for feelings of: a. overinvolvement. b. guilt and despair. c. interest and pleasure. d. ineffectiveness and frustration.

d. ineffectiveness and frustration. Nurses may have expectations for self and patients that are not wholly realistic, especially regarding the patients progress toward health. Unmet expectations result in feelings of ineffectiveness, anger, or frustration. Guilt and despair might be observed when the nurse experiences feelings about patients because of sympathy. Interest is possible but not the most likely result. The correct response is more global than overinvolvement.

A therapist recently convicted of multiple counts of Medicare fraud says, Sure I overbilled. Why not? Everyone takes advantage of the government, so I did too. These statements show: a. shame. b. suspiciousness. c. superficial remorse. d. lack of guilt feelings.

d. lack of guilt feelings. Rationalization is being used to explain behavior and deny wrongdoing. The individual who does not believe he or she has done anything wrong will not exhibit anxiety, remorse, or guilt about the act. The patients remarks cannot be assessed as shameful. Lack of trust or concern that others are determined to cause harm is not evident.

The history shows that a newly admitted patient has impulsivity. The nurse would expect behavior characterized by: a. adherence to a strict moral code. b. manipulative, controlling strategies. c. postponing gratification to an appropriate time. d. little time elapsed between thought and action.

d. little time elapsed between thought and action. The impulsive individual acts in haste without taking time to consider the consequences of the action. None of the other options describes impulsivity.

A supervisor assigns a worker a new project. The worker initially agrees but feels resentful. The next day, when asked about the project, the worker says, Ive been working on other things. When asked 4 hours later, the worker says, Someone else was using the copier, so I couldnt finish it. The workers behavior demonstrates: a. acting out. b. projection. c. suppression. d. passive aggression.

d. passive aggression. A passive-aggressive person deals with emotional conflict by indirectly expressing aggression toward others. Compliance on the surface masks covert resistance. Resistance is expressed through procrastination, inefficiency, and stubbornness in response to assigned tasks. Acting out refers to behavioral expression of conflict. Projection is a form of blaming. Suppression is the conscious denial of a disturbing situation or feeling.

Information from a patients record that indicates marginal coping skills and the need for careful assessment of the risk for violence is a history of: a. childhood trauma. b. family involvement. c. academic problems. d. substance abuse.

d. substance abuse. The nurse should suspect marginal coping skills in a patient with substance abuse. He or she is often anxious, may be concerned about inadequate pain relief, and may have a personality style that externalizes blame. The incorrect options do not signal as high a degree of risk as chemical dependence.