PSYCH through Exam 2
Fidelity (nonmaleficence)
Maintaining loyalty and commitment; doing no wrong to a patient
At what stage do you make your Nursing Dx?
Diagnosis stage of (ADPIE) nursing process
Cues to assess when anger is escalating
Facial expressions, breathing, body language, and posture
Antipsychotics
Haldol Thorazine Navene Prolixin Compazine Stelazine Mellaril
Classic symptoms of Severe Anxiety
Hyperventilation and Impending doom
Use of drugs and alcohol
Increase the rates of victimization
Critical incident debriefing
Staff analysis of an episode of violence
What system is responsible for our emotions
The limbic system
Eustress
positive stress
Patient advocacy is:
speaking up for your patient
Clozapine
*effective at blocking 5-HT2 Treats patients who respond poorly to other antipsychotics b. agranulocytosis causes bone marrow suppression which is why its not given as first line treatment c. Seizures, and drooling are side effects
Antidepressants: SSRIs
1. Fluoxetine (Prozac) 2. Paroxetine (Paxil) 3. Ecitalopram (Lexapro) 4. Citalopram (Celexa) 5. Sertraline (Zoloft) 6. Fluoxetine (Luvox) 7. Vortioxetine ( Brintellix)
Antidepressants: MAOIs
1. Phenelzine (Nardil) 2. Tranylcypromine (Parnate) 3. Isocarboxazid (Marplan) 4. Selegiline (Emsam)
Assessment fo r violence in the family
A. Recurrent emergency department visits for physical injuries attributed to being accident prone B. Somatic symptoms-reflecting anxiety, hyperventilation, GI distress, hypertension, insomnia, nightmares etc C. Signs of Depression-can include sadness, fearfulness, sleep disturbance, irritability
Which intervention is appropriate for a patient with an antisocial personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? a. Refer the patient's requests and questions related to care to the case manager. b. Encourage the patient to discuss his or her feelings of fear and inferiority. c. Provide negative reinforcement for actingout behavior. d. Ignore, rather than confront, inappropriate behavior.
A 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.
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 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.
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 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.
Which statement is a nurse most likely to hear from a patient with anorexia nervosa? a. "I'm fat and ugly." b. "I have nice eyes." c. "I'm thin for my height." d. "My parents don't pay much attention to me."
A Patients with eating disorders have distorted body images; they see themselves as overweight even when their weight is subnormal. "I'm thin for my height" is therefore unlikely to be heard from a patient with anorexia nervosa. Poor self-image precludes making positive statements about self, such as "I have nice eyes." Many patients with eating disorders see supportive others as intrusive and out of tune with their needs.
What is the priority intervention for a nurse beginning to work with a patient with a schizotypal personality disorder? a. Respect the patient's need for periods of social isolation. b. Prevent the patient from violating the nurse's rights. c. Engage the patient in many community activities.
A Patients 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 with schizotypal personality disorder rarely engage in behaviors that violate the nurse's rights or exploit the nurse.
Physical assessment of a patient with bulimia often reveals: a. prominent parotid glands. b. peripheral edema. c. thin, brittle hair. d. amenorrhea.
A Prominent parotid glands are associated with repeated vomiting. The other options are signs of anorexia nervosa and are not usually observed in bulimia
A patient with borderline personality disorder is hospitalized several times after self-mutilating episodes. 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-directed violence b. Impaired skin integrity c. Risk for injury d. Powerlessness
A 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 with borderline personality disorder.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins to talks about "cracklomers" in the local shopping mall. The term "cracklomers" should be documented as: a. neologism. b. concrete thinking. c. thought insertion. d. an idea of reference.
A A neologism is a newly coined word having special meaning to the patient. "Cracklomers" is not a known word. Concrete thinking refers to the inability to think abstractly. Thought insertion refers to thoughts of others that are implanted in one's mind. An idea of reference is a type of delusion in which trivial events are given personal significance.
The family of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is unfamiliar with the illness and the family's role in recovery. Which type of therapy should the nurse recommend? a. Psychoeducational b. Psychoanalytic c. Transactional d. Family
A A psychoeducational group explores the causes of schizophrenia, the role of medications, the significance of medication compliance, and the importance of support for the ill member of the family, and also provides recommendations for living with a person with schizophrenia. Such a group can be of practical assistance to the family members. The other types of therapy do not focus on psychoeducation.
A patient asks for information about Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Which is the nurse's best response? a. "It is a self-help group with the goal of sobriety." b. "It is a form of group therapy led by a psychiatrist." c. "It is a group that learns about drinking from a group leader." d. "It is a network that advocates strong punishment for drunk drivers."
A AA is a peer support group for recovering alcoholics. The goal is to maintain sobriety. Neither professional nor peer leaders are appointed.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is acutely disturbed and violent. After several doses of haloperidol (Haldol), the patient is calm. Two hours later the nurse sees the patient's head rotated to one side in a stiff position; the lower jaw is thrust forward, and the patient is drooling. Which problem is most likely? a. Acute dystonic reaction b. Tardive dyskinesia c. Waxy flexibility d. Akathisia
A Acute dystonic reactions involve painful contractions of the tongue, face, neck, and back; opisthotonos and oculogyric crisis may be observed. Dystonic reactions are considered emergencies that require immediate intervention. Tardive dyskinesia involves involuntary spasmodic muscular contractions that involve the tongue, fingers, toes, neck, trunk, or pelvis; it appears after prolonged treatment. Waxy flexibility is a symptom observed in catatonic schizophrenia. Akathisia is evidenced by internal and external restlessness, pacing, and fidgeting.
Which statement most accurately describes substance addiction? a. It is a lack of control over use. Tolerance, craving, and withdrawal symptoms occur when intake is reduced or stopped. b. It occurs when psychoactive drug use interferes with the action of competing neurotransmitters. c. Symptoms occur when two or more drugs that affect the central nervous system (CNS) have additive effects. d. It involves using a combination of substances to weaken or inhibit the effect of another drug.
A Addiction involves a lack of control over substance use, as well as tolerance, craving, and withdrawal symptoms when intake is reduced or stopped.
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 Although each of the nursing diagnoses listed is appropriate for a patient having a manic episode, the priority lies with the patient's physiologic safety. Hyperactivity and poor judgment place the patient at risk for injury.
A nurse counseling a patient diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) should understand that the assessment of highest priority is: a. risk for self-harm b. cognitive functioning c. identification of drug abuse d. readiness to reestablish identity or memory
A Assessments that relate to patient safety take priority. Patients diagnosed with dissociative identity disorders may be at risk for suicide or self-mutilation; therefore, the nurse must be alert for hints of hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness, low self-esteem, and impulses to self-mutilate. The distractors are important assessments but rank beneath safety.
A child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is going to begin medication therapy. The nurse should plan to teach the family about which classification of medications? a. Central nervous system stimulants b. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) c. Antipsychotic medications d. Anxiolytic medications
A Central nervous system stimulants increase blood flow to the brain and have proven helpful in reducing hyperactivity in children and adolescents with ADHD. The other medication categories listed would not be appropriate.
A patient says, "I feel detached and weird all the time, like I'm looking at life through a cloudy window. Everything seems unreal. These feelings really interfere with my work and study." Which term should the nurse use to document this complaint? a. Depersonalization b. Hypochondriasis c. Dissociation d. Malingering
A Depersonalization involves a persistent or recurrent experience of feeling detached from and outside one's mental processes or body. Although reality testing is intact, the detached experience causes significant impairment in social or occupational functioning and distress to the individual. Malingering involves a conscious process of intentionally producing symptoms for an obvious benefit; dissociation is an unconscious defense mechanism to protect the individual against overwhelming anxiety. Hypochondriasis involves the interpretation of body sensations as symptomatic of a serious illness.
An acutely violent patient diagnosed with schizophrenia receives several doses of haloperidol (Haldol). Two hours later the nurse notices the patient's head rotated to one side in a stiffly fixed position; the lower jaw is thrust forward, and the patient is drooling. Which intervention by the nurse is indicated? a. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg IM from the PRN medication administration record. b. Reassure the patient that the symptoms will subside. Practice relaxation exercises with the patient. c. Give trihexyphenidyl (Artane) 5 mg orally at the next regularly scheduled medication administration time. d. Administer atropine sulfate 2 mg subcutaneously from the PRN medication administration record.
A Diphenhydramine, trihexyphenidyl, benztropine, and other anticholinergic medications may be used to treat dystonias. Swallowing will be difficult or impossible; therefore, oral medication is not an option. Medication should be administered immediately; therefore, the intramuscular route is best. In this case, the best option given is diphenhydramine.
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is taking a tricyclic antidepressant. The patient says, "I don't 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 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.
The treatment team plans care for a person diagnosed with schizophrenia and cannabis abuse. The person has recently used cannabis daily and is experiencing increased hallucinations and delusions. Which principle applies to care planning? a. Consider each disorder primary and provide simultaneous treatment. b. The person will benefit from treatment in a residential treatment facility. c. Withdraw the person from cannabis, and then treat the schizophrenia. d. Treat the schizophrenia first, and then establish the goals for the treatment of substance abuse.
A Dual diagnosis (co-occurring disorders) clinical practice guidelines for both outpatient and inpatient settings suggest that the substance disorder and the psychiatric disorder should both be considered primary and receive simultaneous treatments. Residential treatment may or may not be effective.
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 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 nurse with a history of narcotic abuse is found unconscious in the hospital locker room after overdosing. The nurse is transferred to an inpatient substance abuse unit for care. Which attitudes or behaviors by nursing staff may be enabling? a. Conveying understanding that pressures associated with nursing practice underlie substance abuse. b. Pointing out that work problems are the result, but not the cause, of substance abuse. c. Conveying empathy when the nurse discusses fears of disciplinary action by the state board of nursing. d. Providing health teaching about stress management.
A Enabling denies the seriousness of the patient's problem or supports the patient as he or she shifts responsibility from self to circumstances. The incorrect options are therapeutic and appropriate.
Which nursing intervention has the highest priority for a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa? a. Assist the patient to identify triggers to binge eating. b. Provide corrective consequences for weight loss. c. Explore patient needs for health teaching. d. Assess for signs of impulsive eating.
A For most patients with bulimia nervosa, certain situations trigger the urge to binge; purging then follows. The triggers are often anxiety-producing situations. Identifying these triggers makes it possible to break the binge-purge cycle. Because binge eating and purging directly affect physical status, the need to promote physical safety assumes the highest priority. The question calls for an intervention rather than an assessment.
In the emergency department, a patient's vital signs are: blood pressure (BP), 66/40 mm Hg; pulse (P), 140 beats per minute (bpm); and respirations (R), 8 breaths per minute and shallow. The patient overdosed on illegally obtained hydromorphone (Dilaudid). Select the priority outcome. a. Within 8 hours, vital signs will stabilize as evidenced by BP greater than 90/60 mm Hg, P less than 100 bpm, and respirations at or above 12 breaths per minute. b. The patient will be able to describe a plan for home care and achieve a drug-free state before being released from the emergency department. c. The patient will attend daily meetings of Narcotics Anonymous within 1 week of beginning treatment. d. The patient will identify two community resources for the treatment of substance abuse by discharge.
A Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) is an opiate drug. The correct answer is the only one that relates to the patient's physical condition. It is expected that vital signs will return to normal when the CNS depression is alleviated. The distractors are desired outcomes later in the plan of care.
Shortly after an adolescent's parents announce a plan to divorce, the teen stops participating in sports, sits alone at lunch, and avoids former friends. The adolescent says, "If my parents loved me, then they would work out their problems." What nursing diagnosis is most applicable? a. Ineffective coping b. Decisional conflict c. Chronic low self-esteem d. Disturbed personal identity
A Ineffective coping is evident in the adolescent's response to family stress and discord. Adolescents value peer interactions, and yet this child has eliminated that source of support. The distractors are not supported by the data in this scenario.
A patient in an alcohol treatment program says, "I have been a loser all my life. I'm so ashamed of what I have put my family through. Now, I'm not even sure I can succeed at staying sober." Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Chronic low self-esteem b. Situational low self-esteem c. Disturbed personal identity d. Ineffective health maintenance
A Low self-esteem is present when a patient sees himself or herself as inadequate. It is a chronic problem because it is a lifelong feeling for the patient. Data are not present to support the other options.
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. I'm 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 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.
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 nurse's 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 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 nurse's 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.
Which intervention is appropriate for a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? a. Refer the patient's requests and questions to the case manager. b. Explore the patient's feelings of fear and inferiority. c. Provide negative reinforcement for acting-out behavior. d. Ignore, rather than confront, inappropriate behavior.
A 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.
What assessment findings mark the prodromal stage of schizophrenia? a. Withdrawal, misinterpreting, poor concentration, and preoccupation with religion b. Auditory hallucinations, ideas of reference, thought insertion, and broadcasting c. Stereotyped behavior, echopraxia, echolalia, and waxy flexibility d. Loose associations, concrete thinking, and echolalia neologisms
A Withdrawal, misinterpreting, poor concentration, and preoccupation with religion are prodromal symptoms, which are the symptoms present before the development of florid symptoms. The incorrect options each list the positive symptoms of schizophrenia that are more likely to be apparent during the acute stage of the illness.
A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia regarding the importance of medication management. The patient repeatedly says, "I don't like taking pills." Which treatment strategy should the nurse discuss with the health care provider? a. Use of a long-acting antipsychotic injections b. Addition of a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan) c. Adjunctive use of an antidepressant, such as amitriptyline (Elavil) d. Inpatient hospitalization because of the high risk for exacerbation of symptoms
A Medications such as fluphenazine decanoate and haloperidol decanoate are long-acting forms of antipsychotic medications. They are administered by depot injection every 2 to 4 weeks, thus reducing daily opportunities for nonadherence. The incorrect options do not address the patient's dislike of taking pills.
Select the nursing intervention necessary after administering naloxone (Narcan) to a patient experiencing an opiate overdose. a. Monitor the airway and vital signs every 15 minutes. b. Insert a nasogastric tube and test gastric pH. c. Treat hyperpyrexia with cooling measures. d. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
A Narcotic antagonists such as naloxone quickly reverse CNS depression; however, because the narcotics have a longer duration of action than antagonists, the patient may lapse into unconsciousness or require respiratory support again. The incorrect options are measures unrelated to naloxone use.
A patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. A nurse asks, "Describe what you think about your present weight and how you look." Which response by the patient is most consistent with the diagnosis? a. "I am fat and ugly." b. "What I think about myself is my business." c. "I am grossly underweight, but that's what I want." d. "I am a few pounds overweight, but I can live with it."
A Patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa do not recognize their thinness. They perceive themselves to be overweight and unattractive. The patient with anorexia will usually disclose perceptions about self to others. The patient with anorexia will persist in trying to lose more weight.
What is the priority intervention for a nurse beginning a therapeutic relationship with a patient diagnosed with a schizotypal personality disorder? a. Respect the patient's need for periods of social isolation. b. Prevent the patient from violating the nurse's rights. c. Engage the patient in many community activities. d. Teach the patient how to match clothing.
A 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 nurse's rights or exploit the nurse.
In what significant ways is the therapeutic environment different for a patient who has ingested D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) than for a patient who has ingested phencyclidine (PCP)? a. For LSD ingestion, one person stays with the patient and provides verbal support. For PCP ingestion, a regimen of limited contact with staff members is maintained, and continual visual monitoring is provided. b. For PCP ingestion, the patient is placed on one-on-one intensive supervision. For LSD ingestion, a regimen of limited interaction and minimal verbal stimulation is maintained. c. For LSD ingestion, continual moderate sensory stimulation is provided. For PCP ingestion, continual high-level stimulation is provided. d. For LSD ingestion, the patient is placed in restraints. For PCP ingestion, seizure precautions are implemented.
A Patients who have ingested LSD respond well to being "talked down" by a supportive person. Patients who have ingested PCP are very sensitive to stimulation and display frequent, unpredictable, and violent behaviors. Although one person should perform care and talk gently to the patient, no one individual should be alone in the room with the patient. An adequate number of staff members should be gathered to manage violent behavior if it occurs.
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 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 a nurse most likely to hear from a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa? a. "I would be happy if I could lose 20 more pounds." b. "My parents don't pay much attention to me." c. "I'm thin for my height." d. "I have nice eyes."
A Patients with eating disorders have distorted body images and cognitive distortions. They see themselves as overweight even when their weight is subnormal. "I'm thin for my height" is therefore unlikely to be heard from a patient with anorexia nervosa. Poor self-image precludes making positive statements about self, such as "I have nice eyes." Many patients with eating disorders see supportive others as intrusive and out of tune with their needs.
A nurse assesses a patient diagnosed with functional neurological (conversion) disorder. Which comment is most likely from this patient? a. "Since my father died, I've been short of breath and had sharp pains that go down my left arm, but I think it's just indigestion." b. "I have daily problems with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. My skin is very dry and I think I'm getting seriously dehydrated." c. "Sexual intercourse is painful. I pretend as if I'm asleep so I can avoid it. I think it's starting to cause problems with my marriage." d. "I get choked very easily and have trouble swallowing when I eat. I think I might have cancer of the esophagus."
A Patients with functional neurologic (conversion) disorder often demonstrate a lack of concern regarding the seriousness of symptoms. This lack of concern is termed "la belle indifférence." In addition, a specific cause for the development of the symptoms is identifiable; in this instance, the death of a parent precipitates the stress. The incorrect options suggest other types of somatic symptom disorders.
One bed is available on the inpatient eating disorders unit. Which patient should be admitted? The patient whose weight dropped from: a. 150 to 100 pounds over a 4-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 35.9° C; pulse, 38 beats/min; blood pressure, 60/40 mm Hg b. 120 to 90 pounds over a 3-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 36° C; pulse, 50 beats/min; blood pressure, 70/50 mm Hg c. 110 to 70 pounds over a 4-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 36.5° C; pulse, 60 beats/min; blood pressure, 80/66 mm Hg d. 90 to 78 pounds over a 5-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 36.7° C; pulse, 62 beats/min; blood pressure, 74/48 mm Hg
A Physical criteria for hospitalization include weight loss of more than 30% of body weight within 6 months, temperature below 36° C (hypothermia), heart rate less than 40 beats/min, and systolic blood pressure less than 70 mm Hg
Physical assessment of a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa often reveals: a. prominent parotid glands. b. peripheral edema. c. thin, brittle hair. d. amenorrhea.
A Prominent parotid glands are associated with repeated vomiting. The other options are signs of anorexia nervosa and are not usually observed in bulimia.
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 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 parent diagnosed with schizophrenia and her 13-year-old child live in a homeless shelter. The child has formed a trusting relationship with a shelter volunteer. The child says, "My three friends and I got an A on our school science project." The nurse can assess that the child: a. displays resiliency. b. has a difficult temperament. c. is at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder. d. uses intellectualization to deal with problems.
A Resiliency enables a child to handle the stresses of a difficult childhood. Resilient children can adapt to changes in the environment, take advantage of nurturing relationships with adults other than parents, distance themselves from emotional chaos occurring within the family, learn, and use problem-solving skills.
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 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 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.
A 12-year-old child has been the neighborhood bully for several years. The parents say, "We can't believe anything our child says." Recently, the child shot a dog with a pellet gun and set fire to a trash bin outside a store. The child's behaviors are most consistent with: a. conduct disorder (CD). b. defiance of authority. c. anxiety over separation from a parent. d. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
A The behaviors mentioned are most consistent with the DSM-5 criteria for CD: aggression against people and animals; destruction of property; deceitfulness; rule violations; and impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning. The behaviors are not consistent with ADHD and separation anxiety and are more pervasive than defiance of authority.
A community mental health nurse wants to establish a relationship with a very withdrawn patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient lives at home with a supportive family. Select the nurse's best plan. a. Visit daily for 4 days, then visit every other day for 1 week; stay with the patient for 20 minutes; accept silence; state when the nurse will return. b. Arrange to spend 1 hour each day with the patient; focus on asking questions about what the patient is thinking or experiencing; avoid silences. c. Visit twice daily; sit beside the patient with a hand on the patient's arm; leave if the patient does not respond within 10 minutes. d. Visit every other day; remind the patient of the nurse's identity; encourage the patient to talk while the nurse works on reports.
A Severe constraints on the community mental health nurse's time will probably not allow more time than what is mentioned in the correct option, yet important principles can be used. A severely withdrawn patient should be met "at the patient's own level," with silence accepted. Short periods of contact are helpful to minimize both the patient's and the nurse's anxiety. Predictability in returning as stated will help build trust. An hour may be too long to sustain a home visit with a withdrawn patient, especially if the nurse persists in leveling a barrage of questions at the patient. Twice-daily visits are probably not possible, and leaving after 10 minutes would be premature. Touch may be threatening. Working on reports suggests the nurse is not interested in the patient.
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 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.
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 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 patient's 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 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 Sodium depletion and dehydration increase the chance for developing lithium toxicity. The incorrect options offer inappropriate information.
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 Some patients find that taking lithium with meals diminishes nausea. The incorrect options are less helpful.
Which assessment finding would cause the nurse to consider an 8-year-old child to be most at risk for the development of a psychiatric disorder? a. Being raised by a parent with chronic major depressive disorder b. Moving to three new homes over a 2-year period c. Not being promoted to the next grade d. Having an imaginary friend
A Statistics tell us that children raised by a depressed parent have a 30% to 50% chance of developing an emotional disorder. The chronicity of the parent's depression means it has been a consistent stressor. The other factors do not create ongoing stress.
The causes of somatic system disorders may be related to: a. faulty perceptions of body sensations. b. traumatic childhood events. c. culture-bound phenomena. d. mood instability.
A Structural or functional abnormalities of the brain have been suggested to lead to the somatic system disorders, resulting in disturbed processes of perception and interpretation of bodily sensations. Furthermore, cognitive theorists believe patients misinterpret the meaning of certain bodily sensations and then become excessively alarmed by them. Traumatic childhood events are related to the dissociative disorders. Culture-bound phenomena may explain the prevalence of some symptoms but cannot explain the cause. Somatic system disorders are not a facet of mood instability; however, depression may coexist with a somatic system disorder.
When working with a patient beginning treatment for alcohol abuse, what is the nurse's most therapeutic approach? a. Empathetic, supportive b. Strong, confrontational c. Skeptical, guarded d. Cool, distant
A Support and empathy assist the patient to feel safe enough to start looking at problems. Counseling during the early stage of treatment needs to be direct, open, and honest. The other approaches will increase patient anxiety and cause the patient to cling to defenses.
A patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa has a body mass index (BMI) of 14.8 kg/m2. Which assessment finding is most likely to accompany this value? a. Cachexia b. Leukocytosis c. Hyperthermia d. Hypertension
A The BMI value indicates extreme malnutrition. Cachexia is a hallmark of this problem. The patient would be expected to have leukopenia rather than leukocytosis. Hypothermia and hypotension are likely assessment findings.
Which documentation indicates that the treatment plan for a patient in an alcohol treatment program was effective? a. Is abstinent for 10 days and states, "I can maintain sobriety one day at a time." Spoke with employer, who is willing to allow the patient to return to work in three weeks. b. Is abstinent for 15 days and states, "My problems are under control." Plans to seek a new job where co-workers will not know history. c. Attends AA daily; states many of the members are "real" alcoholics and says, "I may be able to help some of them find jobs at my company." d. Is abstinent for 21 days and says, "I know I can't handle more than one or two drinks in a social setting."
A The answer reflects the AA beliefs. The incorrect options each contain a statement that suggests early relapse.
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 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.
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 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 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: "Let's 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 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.
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 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 16-year-old adolescent diagnosed with conduct disorder (CD) has been in a residential program for three months. Which outcome should occur before discharge? a. The teen and parents create and consent to a behavioral contract with rules, rewards, and consequences. b. The teen completes an application to enter a military academy for continued structure and discipline. c. The teen is temporarily placed with a foster family until the parents complete a parenting skills class. d. The teen has an absence of anger and frustration for 1 week.
A The patient and the parents must agree on a behavioral contract that clearly outlines rules, expected behaviors, and consequences for misbehavior. It must also include rewards for following the rules. The patient will continue to experience anger and frustration. The patient and parents must continue with family therapy to work on boundary and communication issues. Separating the patient from the family to work on these issues is not necessary, and separation is detrimental to the healing process.
An adolescent is arrested for prostitution and assault on a parent. The adolescent says, "I hate my parents. They focus all their attention on my brother, who's perfect in their eyes." Which nursing diagnosis is most applicable? a. Ineffective impulse control, related to seeking parental attention as evidenced by acting out b. Disturbed personal identity, related to acting out as evidenced by prostitution c. Impaired parenting, related to showing preference for one child over another d. Hopelessness, related to feeling unloved by parents
A The patient demonstrates an inability to control impulses and problem solve by using adaptive behaviors to meet life's demands and roles. The defining characteristics are not present for the other nursing diagnoses. The patient has never mentioned hopelessness, low self-esteem, or disturbed personal identity.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is dressed in a red leotard and brightly colored scarves. The patient says, "I'll punch you, munch you, crunch you," while twirling and shadowboxing. Then the patient says gaily, "Do you like my scarves? Here...they are my gift to you." How should the nurse document the patient's mood? a. Labile and euphoric b. Irritable and belligerent c. Highly suspicious and arrogant d. Excessively happy and confident
A 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 patient's mood. A high level of suspicion is not evident.
Which assessment finding best supports the diagnosis of dissociative amnesia with fugue? The patient states: a. "I cannot recall why I'm living in this town." b. "I feel as if I'm living in a fuzzy dream state." c. "I feel like different parts of my body are at war." d. "I feel very anxious and worried about my problems."
A The patient in a fugue state frequently relocates and assumes a new identity while not recalling his or her previous identity or places previously inhabited. The distractors are more consistent with depersonalization, generalized anxiety disorder, or dissociative identity disorder.
A patient was admitted last night with a hip fracture sustained in a fall while intoxicated. The patient points to the Buck's traction and screams, "Somebody tied me up with ropes." The patient is experiencing: a. an illusion. b. a delusion. c. hallucinations. d. hypnagogic phenomenon.
A The patient is misinterpreting a sensory perception when seeing a noose instead of traction. Illusions are common in early withdrawal from alcohol. A delusion is a fixed, false belief. Hallucinations are sensory perceptions occurring in the absence of a stimulus. Hypnagogic phenomena are sensory disturbances that occur between waking and sleeping.
Following a sexual assualt
A forensic examination is conducted and evidence is collected. The pt should be given medication to protect against STI's, tested for pregnancy, Hepatitus, syphilis, and given a tetanus shot if needed.
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. "Let's consider the advantages of being able to stop and think before acting." b. "It sounds as though you've developed some insight into your situation." c. "I'll bet you have some interesting stories to share about overreacting." d. "It's good that you're showing readiness for behavioral change."
A 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 patient tells a nurse, "I sometimes get into trouble because I make quick decisions and act on them." A therapeutic response would be: a. "Let's consider the advantages of being able to stop and think before acting." b. "It sounds as though you've developed some insight into your situation." c. "I'll bet you have some interesting stories to share about overreacting." d. "It's good that you're showing readiness for behavioral change."
A 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 patient with delusions of persecution about being poisoned has refused all hospital meals for 3 days. Which intervention is most likely to be acceptable to the patient? a. Allow the patient to have supervised access to food vending machines b. Allow the patient to telephone a local restaurant to deliver meals c. Offer to taste each portion on the tray for the patient d. Begin tube feedings or total parenteral nutrition
A The patient who is delusional about food being poisoned is likely to believe restaurant food might still be poisoned and to say that the staff member tasting the food has taken an antidote to the poison before tasting. Attempts to tube feed or give nutrition intravenously are considered aggressive and usually promote violence. Patients often perceive foods in sealed containers, packages, or natural shells as being safe.
An 11-year-old child, who has been diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), becomes angry over the rules at a residential treatment program and begins shouting at the nurse. Select the best method to defuse the situation. a. Assign the child to a short time-out. b. Administer an antipsychotic medication. c. Place the child in a therapeutic hold. d. Call a staff member to seclude the child
A Time-out is a useful strategy for interrupting the angry expression of feelings and allows the child an opportunity to exert self-control. This method is the least restrictive alternative of those listed and should be tried before resorting to more restrictive measures.
When a person first begins drinking alcohol, two drinks produce relaxation and drowsiness. After one year of drinking, four drinks are needed to achieve the same relaxed, drowsy state. Why does this change occur? a. Tolerance develops. b. The alcohol is less potent. c. Antagonistic effects occur. d. Hypomagnesemia develops.
A Tolerance refers to needing higher and higher doses of a drug to produce the desired effect. The potency of the alcohol is stable. Neither hypomagnesemia nor antagonistic effects would account for this change.
When a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia was discharged 6 months ago, haloperidol (Haldol) was prescribed. The patient now says, "I stopped taking those pills. They made me feel like a robot." What common side effects should the nurse validate with the patient? a. Sedation and muscle stiffness b. Sweating, nausea, and diarrhea c. Mild fever, sore throat, and skin rash d. Headache, watery eyes, and runny nose
A Typical antipsychotic drugs often produce sedation and extrapyramidal side effects such as stiffness and gait disturbance, effects the patient might describe as making him or her feel like a "robot." The side effects mentioned in the other options are usually not associated with typical antipsychotic therapy or would not have the effect described by the patient.
An outpatient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa has begun re-feeding. Between the first and second appointments, the patient gained 8 pounds. The nurse should: a. assess lung sounds and extremities. b. suggest the use of an aerobic exercise program. c. positively reinforce the patient for the weight gain. d. establish a higher goal for weight gain the next week.
A Weight gain of more than 2 to 5 pounds weekly may overwhelm the heart's capacity to pump, leading to cardiac failure. The nurse must assess for signs of pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure. The incorrect options are undesirable because they increase the risk for cardiac complications.
Which nursing intervention has the highest priority for a patient with bulimia nervosa? a. Assist the patient to identify triggers to binge eating. b. Provide corrective consequences for weight loss. c. Assess for signs of impulsive eating. d. Explore patient needs for health teaching.
A For most patients with bulimia nervosa, certain situations trigger the urge to binge; purging then follows. The triggers are often anxiety-producing situations. Identifying these triggers makes it possible to break the binge-purge cycle. Because binge eating and purging directly affect physical status, the need to promote physical safety assumes the highest priority.
One bed is available on the inpatient eating disorders unit. Which patient should be admitted? The patient whose weight dropped from: a. 150 to 100 pounds over a 4-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 35.9° C; pulse, 38 beats/min; blood pressure, 60/40 mm Hg b. 120 to 90 pounds over a 3-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 36° C; pulse, 50 beats/min; blood pressure, 70/50 mm Hg c. 110 to 70 pounds over a 4-month period. Vital signs: temperature 36.5° C; pulse, 60 beats/min; blood pressure, 80/66 mm Hg d. 90 to 78 pounds over a 5-month period. Vital signs: temperature, 36.7° C; pulse, 62 beats/min; blood pressure, 74/48 mm Hg
A Physical criteria for hospitalization include weight loss of more than 30% of body weight within 6 months, temperature below 36° C (hypothermia), heart rate less than 40 beats/ min, and systolic blood pressure less than 70 mm Hg.
A patient with borderline personality disorder has a history of selfmutilation 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 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. Lowdose 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.
.A patient with anorexia nervosa virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. A nurse asks, "Describe what you think about your present weight and how you look." Which response by the patient is most consistent with the diagnosis? a. "I'm fat and ugly." b. "What I think about myself is my business." c. "I'm grossly underweight, but that's what I want." d. "I'm a few pounds overweight, but I can live with it."
A Untreated patients with anorexia nervosa do not recognize their thinness. They perceive themselves to be overweight and unattractive. The patient with anorexia will usually tell others perceptions of self. The patient with anorexia will persist in trying to lose more weight.
A patient with anorexia nervosa virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. A nurse asks, "Describe what you think about your present weight and how you look." Which response by the patient is most consistent with the diagnosis? a. "I'm fat and ugly." b. "What I think about myself is my business." c. "I'm grossly underweight, but that's what I want." d. "I'm a few pounds overweight, but I can live with it."
A Untreated patients with anorexia nervosa do not recognize their thinness. They perceive themselves to be overweight and unattractive. The patient with anorexia will usually tell others perceptions of self. The patient with anorexia will persist in trying to lose more weight.
An outpatient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa has begun refeeding. Between the first and second appointments, the patient gained 8 pounds. The nurse should: a. assess lung sounds and extremities. b. suggest the use of an aerobic exercise program. c. positively reinforce the patient for the weight gain. d. establish a higher goal for weight gain the next week.
A Weight gain of more than 2 to 5 pounds weekly may overwhelm the heart's capacity to pump, leading to cardiac failure. The nurse must assess for signs of pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure. The incorrect options are undesirable because they increase the risk for cardiac complications.
Amygdala
A limbic system structure involved in memory and emotion, particularly fear and aggression and violence
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter associated with movement, attention and learning and the brain's pleasure and reward system. *cocaine interfers w/ reuptake allowing it to last longer in the body
Most import indicator of future aggressive episodes
A patients history
What is the partial hospitalization program?
A program that provides structured activities w/ nursing and medical supervision, intervention and treatment -patients are in the program about 6 hrs since they are partially hospitalized
Recovery Model
A social model of disability, focus shifts from one of illness and disease to an emphasis on rehabilitation and recovery
What is elder abuse?
A violation of human rights as well as significant cause of injury isolation and despair of the elderly population -Can include rape and sexual abuse
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is hospitalized after arguing with co-workers and threatening to harm them. The patient is aloof and suspicious and says, "Two staff members I saw talking were plotting to assault me." Based on data gathered at this point, which nursing diagnoses relate? Select all that apply. a. Risk for other-directed violence b. Disturbed thought processes c. Risk for loneliness d. Spiritual distress e. Social isolation
A, B Delusions of persecution and ideas of reference support the nursing diagnosis of Disturbed thought processes. Risk for other-directed violence is substantiated by the patient's paranoia and feeling endangered by persecutors. Fearful individuals may strike out at perceived persecutors or attempt self-harm to get away from persecutors. Data are not present to support the other diagnoses.
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, B, C 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 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, B, C 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
A nurse assesses a patient suspected to have somatic system disorder. Which findings support the diagnosis? Select all that apply. a. Female b. Reports frequent syncope c. Complains of heavy menstrual bleeding d. First diagnosed with psoriasis at 12 years of age e. Reports of back pain, painful urination, frequent diarrhea, and hemorrhoids
A, B, C, E No chronic disease explains the symptoms for patients with somatic system disorder. Patients report multiple symptoms; gastrointestinal, sexual, and pseudoneurological symptoms are common. This disorder is more common in women than in men.
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, B, D 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.
For which patients 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, B, D 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 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 patient's sleep patterns
A, B, E 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.
A patient tells the nurse, "I am so ashamed of being bipolar. When I'm manic, my behavior embarrasses my family. Even if I take my medication, there's no guarantee I won't 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, C Chronic low self-esteem and powerlessness are interwoven in the patient's statements. No data support the other diagnoses.
A patient referred to the eating disorders clinic has lost 35 pounds in 3 months and has developed amenorrhea. For which physical manifestations of anorexia nervosa should a nurse assess? Select all that apply. a. Peripheral edema b. Parotid swelling c. Constipation d. Hypotension e. Dental cariesf. Lanugo
A, C, D, FPeripheral edema is often present because of hypoalbuminemia. Constipation related to starvation is often present. Hypotension is often present because of dehydration. Lanugo is often present and is related to starvation. Parotid swelling is associated with bulimia. Dental caries are associated with bulimia.
A student nurse caring for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder reads in the patient's 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, C, D, F 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.
A nurse can assist a patient diagnosed with addiction and the patient's family in which aspects of relapse prevention? Select all that apply. a. Rehearsing techniques to handle anticipated stressful situations b. Advising the patient to accept residential treatment if relapse occurs c. Assisting the patient to identify life skills needed for effective coping d. Isolating self from significant others and social situations until sobriety is established e. Teaching the patient about the physical changes to expect as the body adapts to functioning without substances
A, C, E Nurses can be helpful as a patient assesses needed life skills and in providing appropriate referrals. Anticipatory problem solving and role playing are good ways of rehearsing effective strategies for handling stressful situations. The nurse can participate in role playing and help the patient evaluate the usefulness of new strategies. The nurse can also provide valuable information about the physiologic changes that can be expected and the ways in which to cope with these changes. Residential treatment is not usually necessary after relapse. Patients need the support of friends and family to establish and maintain sobriety.
The family members of a patient newly diagnosed with schizophrenia state that they do not understand what has caused the illness. The nurse's response should be based on which models? Select all that apply. a. Neurobiological b. Environmental c. Family theory d. Genetic e. Stress
A, D Compelling evidence exists that schizophrenia is a neurologic disorder probably related to neurochemical abnormalities, neuroanatomical disruption of brain circuits, and genetic vulnerability. Stress and family disruption may contribute but are not considered etiologic factors. Environmental factors are not recognized as causative variables in schizophrenia.
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, D, E 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.
A patient diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder says, "Why has God chosen me to be sick all the time and unable to provide for my family? The burden on my family is worse than the pain I bear." Which nursing diagnoses apply to this patient? Select all that apply. a. Spiritual distress b. Decisional conflict c. Adult failure to thrive d. Impaired social interaction e. Ineffective role performance
A, E The patient's verbalization is consistent with spiritual distress. Moreover, the patient's description of being unable to provide for and burdening the family suggests ineffective role performance. No data support diagnoses of adult failure to thrive, impaired social interaction, or decisional conflict.
Why do women stay w/abusive partners?
A. Fear that the attacks will become even more violent B. The woman and children may be murdered if found by the batterer C. Lack of financial support, being isolated, brainwashing through abuse, low self-esteem, children, believing they deserve the abuse, religious values
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 are early signs of lithium toxicity. Problems mentioned in the incorrect options are unrelated to lithium therapy.
As a patient admitted to the eating disorders unit undresses, a nurse observes that the patient's body is covered by fine, downy hair. The patient weighs 70 pounds and is 5 feet, 4 inches tall. Which term should be documented? a. Amenorrhea b. Alopecia c. Lanugo d. Stupor
C The fine, downy hair noted by the nurse is called lanugo. It is frequently seen in patients with anorexia nervosa. None of the other conditions can be supported by the data the nurse has gathered
Does a consent form need to be signed by the pt to collect forensic evidence
Yes
Which personality characteristic is a nurse most likely to assess in a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa? a. Carefree flexibility b. Rigidity, perfectionism c. Open displays of emotion d. High spirits and optimism
B Rigid thinking, inability to demonstrate flexibility, and difficulty changing cognitions are characteristic of patients diagnosed with eating disorders. The incorrect options are rare in a patient with anorexia nervosa. Inflexibility, controlled emotions, and pessimism are more the norm.
Is permission need to collect forensic data, taking photos, and doing a pelvic examination?
Yes. Confidentiality is stressed
Risk factor someone failing exams
Age
What is offering a "general lead" in therapeutic communication?
Allows the other person to take direction in the discussion. indicates that the nurse is interested in what comes next. Ex. "Go on" "And then?" "Tell me about it"
chronic stress
can have damaging effects on the body by lowering the resistance of the immune system and contributing to both physical illness and mental trauma
What is malpractice?
An act of omission to act that breaches the duty of due care and results in a patients injuries
GABA
An inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. *reduces anxiety, excitation, and aggression *anticonvulsant and muscle relaxing properties
Ketamine
Anesthetic frequently used in veterinary practices; also hallucinogenic substance related to PCP Onsets in 20 minutes and last 30-60 minutes causes a dreamlike state and amnesia street name- Special K, Vitamin K, bump, kitkat, purple, and Super C
Nursing Dx for Panic Level Anxiety
Anxiety r/t severe threat AEB verbal or physical acting out, extreme immobility, sense of impending doom, inability to differentiate reality and problem solve
When are seclusion and restraints used
As a last resort documentation of restraints is LAW
The 5 A's Process
Asking Acquiring Appraising Applying Assessing
Diet restrictions for MAO inhibitors
Avoid foods w/ a high Tyramine content Ex. chocolate, milk, beer, ginseng, fava beans, avocados
What behavior by a nurse caring for a patient with an eating disorder indicates the nurse needs supervision? a. The nurse's comments are nonjudgmental. b. The nurse uses an authoritarian manner when interacting with the patient. c. The nurse teaches the patient to recognize signs of increasing anxiety and ways to intervene. d. The nurse refers the patient to a self-help group for individuals with eating disorders.
B In the effort to motivate the patient and take advantage of the decision to seek help and be healthier, the nurse must take care not to cross the line toward authoritarianism and assume the role of a parent. The helpful nurse uses a problem-solving approach and focuses on the patient's feelings of shame and low self-esteem. Referral to a self-help group is an appropriate intervention.
Which commonality would be most applicable to the patient with a 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. 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 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.
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 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.
Which nursing intervention has priority as a patient with anorexia nervosa begins to gain weight? a. Assess for depression and anxiety. b. Observe for adverse effects of refeeding. c. Communicate empathy for the patient's feelings. d. Help the patient balance energy expenditure and caloric intak
B The nursing intervention of observing for adverse effects of refeeding most directly relates to weight gain and is a priority. Assessing for depression and anxiety and communicating empathy relate to coping. Helping the patient balance energy expenditure and caloric intake is an inappropriate intervention.
What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient 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 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 nurse counsels a patient diagnosed with body dysmorphic disorder. Which nursing diagnosis would be a priority for the plan of care? a. Anxiety b. Risk for suicide c. Disturbed body image d. Ineffective role performance
B A high risk of completed suicide exists in patients with body dysmorphic disorder. Safety is always a high priority for the nurse; in this instance, the plan of care should include an awareness of the risk for self-inflicted harm.
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 patient's feelings about cutting.
B 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.
Police bring a patient to the emergency department after an automobile accident. The patient is ataxic with slurred speech and mild confusion. The blood alcohol level is 400 mg/dl (0.40 mg %). Considering the relationship between behavior and blood alcohol level, which conclusion can the nurse draw? The patient: a. rarely drinks alcohol. b. has a high tolerance to alcohol. c. has been treated with disulfiram (Antabuse). d. has recently ingested both alcohol and sedative drugs.
B A nontolerant drinker would be in a coma with a blood alcohol level of 400 mg/dl (0.40 mg %). The fact that the patient is walking and talking shows a discrepancy between blood alcohol level and expected behavior. It strongly suggests that the patient's body has become tolerant to the drug. If disulfiram and alcohol are ingested together, then an entirely different clinical picture would result. The blood alcohol level gives no information about the ingestion of other drugs.
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder repeatedly tells staff members, "I have cancer. It's 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 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.
A patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa is resistant to weight gain. What is the rationale for establishing a contract with the patient to participate in measures designed to produce a specified weekly weight gain? a. Because severe anxiety concerning eating is expected, objective and subjective data must be routinely collected. b. Patient involvement in decision-making increases a sense of control and promotes compliance with the treatment. c. A team approach to planning the diet ensures that physical and emotional needs of the patient are met. d. Because of increased risk for physical problems with re-feeding, obtaining patient permission is required.
B A sense of control for the patient is vital to the success of therapy. A diet that controls weight gain can allay patient fears of a too-rapid weight gain. Data collection is not the reason for contracting. A team approach is wise but is not a guarantee that the patient's needs will be met. Permission for treatment is a separate issue. The contract for weight gain is an additional aspect of treatment.
A patient with a history of daily alcohol abuse was hospitalized at 0200 today. When would the nurse expect withdrawal symptoms to peak? a. Between 0800 and 1000 today (6 to 8 hours after drinking stopped) b. Between 0200 tomorrow and hospital day 2 (24 to 48 hours after drinking stopped) c. About 0200 on hospital day 3 (72 hours after drinking stopped) d. About 0200 on hospital day 4 (96 hours after drinking stopped)
B Alcohol withdrawal usually begins 6 to 8 hours after cessation or significant reduction of alcohol intake. It peaks between 24 and 48 hours, then resolves or progresses to delirium
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 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.
A patient says to the nurse, "My life does not have any happiness in it anymore. I once enjoyed holidays, but now they're just another day." How would the nurse document the complaint? a. Vegetative symptom b. Anhedonia c. Euphoria d. Anergia
B 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.
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 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.
When assessing a 2-year-old diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a nurse expects: a. hyperactivity and attention deficits. b. failure to develop interpersonal skills. c. history of disobedience and destructive acts. d. high levels of anxiety when separated from a parent.
B Autism spectrum disorder involves distortions in the development of social skills and language that include perception, motor movement, attention, and reality testing. Caretakers frequently mention the child's failure to develop interpersonal skills. The distractors are more relevant to ADHD, separation anxiety, and CD.
A person comes to the clinic reporting, "I wear a scarf across my lower face when I go out but because of my ugly appearance." Assessment reveals an average appearance with no actual disfigurement. Which problem is most likely? a. Dissociative identity disorder b. Body dysmorphi c disorderc. Pseudocyesis d. Malingering
B Body dysmorphic disorder involves a preoccupation with an imagined defect in appearance. Dissociative identity disorder involves the existence of two or more distinct subpersonalities, each with its own patterns of relating, perceiving, and thinking. Pseudocyesis is the false belief that one is pregnant. Malingering is intentionally producing symptoms for a personal gain.
Which nursing diagnosis would likely apply both to a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia as well as a patient diagnosed with amphetamine-induced psychosis? a. Powerlessness b. Disturbed thought processes c. Ineffective thermoregulation d. Impaired oral mucous membrane
B Both types of patients commonly experience paranoid delusions; thus, the nursing diagnosis of Disturbed thought processes is appropriate for both. The incorrect options are not specifically applicable to both.
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. "Let's 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 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's care plan includes monitoring for auditory hallucinations. Which assessment findings suggest the patient may be hallucinating? a. Aloofness, haughtiness, suspicion b. Darting eyes, tilted head, mumbling to self c. Elevated mood, hyperactivity, distractibility d. Performing rituals, avoiding open places
B Clues to hallucinations include looking around the room as though to find the speaker; tilting the head to one side as though intently listening; and grimacing, mumbling, or talking aloud as though responding conversationally to someone.
A college student observes a roommate going out wearing uncharacteristically seductive clothing, returning 12 to 24 hours later, and then sleeping for 8 to 12 hours. At other times, the roommate sits on the floor speaking like a young child. Which health problem should be considered? a. Functional neurological (conversion) disorder b. Dissociative identity disorder c. Dissociative amnesia d. Body dysmorphic disorder
B Dissociative identity disorder involves the existence of two or more distinct subpersonalities, each with its own patterns of relating, perceiving, and thinking. At least two of the subpersonalities take control of the person's behavior but leave the individual unable to remember the periods of time in which the subpersonality is in control.
During the third week of treatment, the spouse of a patient in an alcoholism rehabilitation program says, "After discharge, I'm sure everything will be just fine." Which remark by the nurse will be most helpful to the spouse? a. "It is good that you're supportive of your spouse's sobriety and want to help maintain it." b. "Although sobriety solves some problems, new ones may emerge as one adjusts to living without alcohol." c. "It will be important for you to structure life to avoid as much stress as possible. You will need to provide social protection." d. "Remember that alcoholism is a disorder of self-destruction. You will need to observe your spouse's behavior carefully."
B During recovery, patients identify and use alternative coping mechanisms to reduce their reliance on alcohol. Physical adaptations must occur. Emotional responses, formerly dulled by alcohol, are now fully experienced and may cause considerable anxiety. These changes inevitably have an effect on the spouse and children, who should be given anticipatory guidance and accurate information.
The spouse of a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder asks what evidence supports the possibility of genetic transmission of bipolar disorders. Select the nurse's 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 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.
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 High-calorie, high-protein food supplements will provide the additional calories needed to offset the patient's 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.
A newly admitted patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is hypervigilant and constantly scans the environment. The patient states, "I saw two doctors talking in the hall. They were plotting to kill me." The nurse may correctly assess this behavior as: a. echolalia. b. an idea of reference. c. a delusion of infidelity. d. an auditory hallucination.
B Ideas of reference are misinterpretations of the verbalizations or actions of others that give special personal meanings to these behaviors; for example, when seeing two people talking, the individual assumes they are talking about him or her. The other terms do not correspond with the scenario.
What behavior by a nurse caring for a patient diagnosed with an eating disorder indicates the nurse needs supervision? a. The nurse's comments are nonjudgmental. b. The nurse uses an authoritarian manner when interacting with the patient. c. The nurse teaches the patient to recognize signs of increasing anxiety and ways to intervene. d. The nurse refers the patient to a self-help group for individuals with eating disorders.
B In the effort to motivate the patient and take advantage of the decision to seek help and be healthier, the nurse must take care not to cross the line toward authoritarianism and assume the role of a parent. The helpful nurse uses a problem-solving approach and focuses on the patient's feelings of shame and low self-esteem. Referral to a self-help group is an appropriate intervention.
Which question has the highest priority when assessing a newly admitted patient with a history of alcohol abuse? a. "Have you ever had blackouts?" b. "When did you have your last drink?" c. "Has drinking caused you any problems?" d. "When did you decide to seek treatment?"
B Learning when the patient had the last drink is essential to knowing when to begin to observe for symptoms of withdrawal. The other questions are relevant but of lower priority
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins a new prescription for lurasidone HCl (Latuda). The patient is 5?2'6?3? tall and currently weighs 204 pounds. Which topic is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan related to this medication? a. How to recognize tardive dyskinesia b. Weight management strategies c. Ways to manage constipation d. Sleep hygiene measures
B Lurasidone HCl (Latuda) is an atypical antipsychotic medication. The incidence of weight gain, diabetes, and high cholesterol is high with this medication. The patient is overweight now, so weight management is especially important. The incidence of tardive dyskinesia is low with atypical antipsychotic medications. Constipation may occur, but it is less important than weight management. This drug usually produces drowsiness.
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 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 lithium's antimanic activity nor minimize the side effects. Lithium is used for long-term control.
During a psychiatric assessment, the nurse observes a patient's facial expressions that are without emotion. The patient says, "Life feels so hopeless to me. I've been feeling sad for several months." How should the nurse document the patient's 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 Mood is a person's self-reported emotional feeling state. Affect is the emotional feeling state that is outwardly observable by others.
A patient has smoked two packs of cigarettes daily for many years. When the patient does not smoke or tries to cut back, anxiety, craving, poor concentration, and headache result. What does this scenario describe? a. Substance abuse b. Substance addiction c. Substance intoxication d. Recreational use of a social drug
B Nicotine meets the criteria for a substance, the criterion for addiction (tolerance) is present, and withdrawal symptoms are noted with abstinence or a reduction of the dose. The scenario does not meet the criteria for substance abuse, intoxication, or recreational use of a social drug.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken a conventional antipsychotic medication for a year. Hallucinations are less intrusive but the patient continues to have apathy, poverty of thought, and social isolation. The nurse expects a change to which medication? a. haloperidol (Haldol) b. olanzapine (Zyprexa) c. chlorpromazine (Thorazine) d. diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
B Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication that targets both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Haloperidol and chlorpromazine are conventional antipsychotic agents that target only positive symptoms. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine.
An appropriate intervention for a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa who binges and purges is to teach the patient to: a. eat a small meal after purging. b. avoid skipping meals or restricting food. c. concentrate oral intake after 4 PM daily. d. understand the value of reading journal entries aloud to others.
B One goal of health teaching is the normalization of eating habits. Food restriction and skipping meals lead to rebound bingeing. Teaching the patient to eat a small meal after purging will probably perpetuate the need to induce vomiting. Teaching the patient to concentrate intake after 4 PM will lead to late-day bingeing. Journal entries are private.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has catatonia. The patient is stuporous, demonstrates little spontaneous movement, and has waxy flexibility. The patient's activities of daily living are severely compromised. An appropriate outcome is that the patient will: a. demonstrate increased interest in the environment by the end of week 1. b. perform self-care activities with coaching by the end of day 3. c. gradually take the initiative for self-care by the end of week 2. d. voluntarily accept tube feeding by day 2.
B Outcomes related to self-care deficit nursing diagnoses should deal with increasing the patient's ability to perform self-care tasks independently, such as feeding, bathing, dressing, and toileting. Performing the tasks with coaching by the nursing staff denotes improvement over the complete inability to perform the tasks. The incorrect options are not directly related to self-care activities; they are difficult to measure and are unrelated to maintaining nutrition.
Over the past year, a woman has cooked gourmet meals for her family but eats only tiny servings. She wears layered, loose clothing and now has amenorrhea. Her current weight is 95 pounds, a loss of 35 pounds. Which medical diagnosis is most likely? a. Binge eating disorder b. Anorexia nervosa c. Bulimia nervosa
B Overly controlled eating behaviors, extreme weight loss, amenorrhea, preoccupation with food, and wearing several layers of loose clothing to appear larger are part of the clinical picture of an individual with anorexia nervosa. The individual with bulimia usually is near normal weight. The binge eater is often overweight. Pica refers to eating nonfood items.
Which treatment modality should a nurse recommend to help a patient diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder cope more effectively? a. Flooding b. Relaxation c. Response prevention d. Systematic desensitization
B Pain, a common complaint in patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder, increases when the patient has muscle tension. Relaxation can diminish the patient's perceptions of the intensity of pain. The distractors are modalities useful in treating selected anxiety disorders.
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 nurse's 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. "It's unusual that the health care provider has not already stopped your medication."
B 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.
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 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 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 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 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 you're wearing." d. "You must be feeling better today."
B Patients with depression usually see the negative side of things. The meaning of compliments may be altered to "I didn't look nice yesterday" or "They didn't 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.
Which symptoms are expected for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who has disorganization? a. Extremes of motor activity, from excitement to stupor b. Social withdrawal and ineffective communication c. Severe anxiety with ritualistic behavior d. Highly suspicious, delusional behavior
B Patients with disorganization demonstrate the most regressed and socially impaired behaviors. Communication is often incoherent, with silly giggling and loose associations predominating. Highly suspicious, delusional behavior relates more to paranoia. Extremes of motor activity, from excitement to stupor, relate to catatonia. Severe anxiety and ritualistic behaviors relate to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
A patient reports fears of having cervical cancer and says to the nurse, "I've had Pap smears by six different doctors. The results are normal, but I'm sure that's because of errors in the laboratory." Which disorder would the nurse suspect? a. Functional neurologic (conversion) disorder b. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) c. Body dysmorphic disorder d. Dissociative amnesia with fugue
B Patients with illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) have fears of serious medical problems such as cancer or heart disease. These fears persist, despite medical evaluations, and interfere with daily functioning. No complaints of pain are made, and no evidence of dissociation or conversion exists. Body dysmorphic disorder involves a belief that one's appearance is flawed.
A person diagnosed with schizophrenia has had difficulty keeping a job because of arguing with co-workers and accusing them of conspiracy. Today the person shouts, "They're all plotting to destroy me." Select the nurse's most therapeutic response. a. "Everyone here is trying to help you. No one wants to harm you." b. "Feeling that people want to destroy you must be very frightening." c. "That is not true. People here are trying to help if you will let them." d. "Staff members are health care professionals who are qualified to help you."
B Resist focusing on content; instead, focus on the feelings the patient is expressing. This strategy prevents arguing about the reality of delusional beliefs. Such arguments increase patient anxiety and the tenacity with which the patient holds to the delusion. The other options focus on content and provide opportunity for argument.
Over the past year, a woman has cooked gourmet meals for her family but eats only tiny servings. This person wears layered loose clothing and now has amenorrhea. Her current weight is 95 pounds, a loss of 35 pounds. Which medical diagnosis is most likely? a. Binge eating b. Bulimia nervosa c. Anorexia nervosa d. Eating disorder not otherwise specified
B Patients with somatic system disorders go from physician to physician trying to establish a physical cause for their symptoms. When a psychological basis is suggested and a referral for counseling is offered, these patients reject both.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has catatonia. The patient has little spontaneous movement and waxy flexibility. Which patient needs are of priority importance? a. Psychosocial b. Physiologic c. Self-actualization d. Safety and security
B Physiologic needs must be met to preserve life. A patient who is catatonic may need to be fed by hand or tube, toileted, and given range-of-motion exercises to preserve physiologic integrity. The assessment findings do not suggest safety concerns. Higher level needs (psychosocial and self-actualization) are of lesser concern.
A patient has blindness related to a functional neurological (conversion) disorder but is unconcerned about this problem. Which understanding should guide the nurse's planning for this patient? The patient is: a. suppressing accurate feelings regarding the problem. b. relieving anxiety through the physical symptom. c. meeting needs through hospitalization. d. refusing to disclose genuine fears.
B Psychoanalytic theory suggests conversion reduces anxiety through the production of a physical symptom that is symbolically linked to an underlying conflict. Conversion, not suppression, is the operative defense mechanism in this disorder. The other distractors oversimplify the dynamics, suggesting that only dependency needs are of concern, or suggest conscious motivation (conversion operates unconsciously).
A patient says, "I know I have a brain tumor despite the results of the magnetic resonance image (MRI). The radiologist is wrong. People who have brain tumors vomit, and yesterday I vomited all day." Which response by the nurse fosters cognitive restructuring? a. "You do not have a brain tumor. The more you talk about it, the more it reinforces your illogical thinking." b. "Let's see whether any other explanations for your vomiting are possible." c. "You seem so worried. Let's talk about how you're feeling." d. "We should talk about something else."
B Questioning the evidence is a cognitive restructuring technique. Identifying causes other than the feared disease can be helpful in changing distorted perceptions. Distraction by changing the subject will not be effective.
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 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
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 nurse's 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 Situations such as this offer an opportunity to use the patient's distractibility to the staff's 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 patient's 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 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. You're terrible." This outburst can be assessed as: a. denial. b. splitting. c. reaction formation. d. separation-individuation strategies.
B 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.
A patient has taken trifluoperazine (Stelazine) 30 mg/day orally for 3 years. The clinic nurse notes that the patient grimaces and constantly smacks both lips. The patient's neck and shoulders twist in a slow, snakelike motion. Which problem would the nurse suspect? a. Agranulocytosis b. Tardive dyskinesia c. Tourette syndrome d. Anticholinergic effects
B Tardive dyskinesia is a neuroleptic-induced condition involving the face, trunk, and limbs. Involuntary movements such as tongue thrusting; licking; blowing; irregular movements of the arms, neck, and shoulders; rocking; hip jerks; and pelvic thrusts are observed. These symptoms are frequently not reversible, even when the drug is discontinued. The scenario does not present evidence consistent with the other disorders mentioned. Agranulocytosis is a blood disorder. Tourette syndrome is a condition in which tics are present. Anticholinergic effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, flushing, constipation, and dry eyes.
Select the most appropriate outcome for a patient completing the fourth alcohol detoxification program in one year. Before discharge, the patient will a. use rationalization in healthy ways. b. state, "I see the need for ongoing treatment." c. identify constructive outlets for expression of anger. d. develop a trusting relationship with one staff member.
B The answer refers to the need for ongoing treatment after detoxification and is the best goal related to controlling relapse. The scenario does not provide enough information to know whether anger has been identified as a problem. A trusting relationship, although desirable, would not help the patient maintain sobriety.
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 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 child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has hyperactivity, distractibility, and impaired play. The health care provider prescribed methylphenidate (Concerta). The desired behavior for which the nurse should monitor is: a. increased expressiveness in communicating with others. b. improved ability to participate in play with other children. c. ability to identify anxiety and implement self-control strategies. d. improved socialization skills with other children and authority figures.
B The goal is improvement in the child's hyperactivity, distractibility, and play. The incorrect options are more relevant for a child with a developmental or anxiety disorder.
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 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.
Assessing a patients nonverbal communication for depression
Body behaviors, facial expressions, eye cast, voice related behaviors, autonomic responses, personal appearance and physical characteristics
A nurse worked at a hospital for several months, resigned, and then took a position at another hospital. In the new position, the nurse often volunteers to be the medication nurse. After several serious medication errors, an investigation reveals that the nurse was diverting patient narcotics for self-use. What early indicator of the nurse's drug use was evident? a. Accepting responsibility for medication errors. b. Seeking to be assigned as a medication nurse. c. Frequent complaints of physical pain. d. High sociability with peers.
B The nurse intent on diverting drugs for personal use often attempts to isolate him- or herself from peers rather than being sociable. The person seeks access to medications. Usually, the person will blame errors on others rather than accepting responsibility.
Which nursing intervention has priority as a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa begins to gain weight? a. Assess for depression and anxiety. b. Observe for adverse effects of re-feeding. c. Communicate empathy for the patient's feelings. d. Help the patient balance energy expenditure and caloric intake.
B The nursing intervention of observing for adverse effects of re-feeding most directly relates to weight gain and is a priority. Assessing for depression and anxiety and communicating empathy relate to coping. Helping the patient balance energy expenditure and caloric intake is an inappropriate intervention.
A patient has blindness related to a functional neurological (conversion) disorder. To help the patient eat, the nurse should: a. establish a "buddy" system with other patients who can feed the patient at each meal. b. expect the patient to feed himself or herself after explaining the arrangement of the food on the tray. c. direct the patient to locate items on the tray independently and feed himself or herself unassisted. d. address the needs of other patients in the dining room, and then feed this patient.
B The patient is expected to maintain some level of independence by feeding himself or herself, whereas the nurse is supportive in a matter-of-fact way. The distractors support dependency or offer little support.
A patient with blindness related to a functional neurological (conversion) disorder says, "All the doctors and nurses in this hospital stop by often to check on me. Too bad people outside the hospital don't find me interesting." Which nursing diagnosis is most relevant? a. Social isolation b. Chronic low self-esteem c. Interrupted family processes d. Ineffective health maintenance
B The patient mentions that the symptoms make people more interested, which indicates that the patient believes he or she is uninteresting and unpopular without the symptoms, thus supporting the nursing diagnosis of Chronic low self-esteem. Defining characteristics for the other nursing diagnoses are not present in this scenario.
A patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder has the nursing diagnosis: Interrupted family processes, related to patient's disabling symptoms as evidenced by the spouse and children assuming roles and tasks that previously belonged to patient. An appropriate outcome is that the patient will: a. assume roles and functions of the other family members. b. demonstrate a resumption of former roles and tasks. c. focus energy on problems occurring in the family. d. rely on family members to meet his or her personal needs.
B The patient with a somatic symptom disorder has typically adopted a sick role in the family, characterized by dependence. Increasing independence and the resumption of former roles are necessary to change this pattern. The distractors are inappropriate outcomes.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder and who takes lithium telephones the nurse at the clinic to say, "I've 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 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 patient's symptoms. Restricting oral fluids will make the situation worse.
A child blurts out answers to questions before the questions are complete, demonstrates an inability to take turns, and persistently interrupts and intrudes in the conversations of others. Assessment data show these behaviors relate primarily to: a. intelligence. b. impulsivity. c. inattention. d. defiance.
B These behaviors demonstrate impulsivity. Intelligence refers to measurements of one's cognitive ability. Inattention is a failure to listen. Defiance is willfully doing what an authority figure has said not to do.
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 patient's behavior as necessary. c. Provide verbal instructions to the patient to remain calm. d. Restrain the patient to reduce hyperactivity and aggression.
B This intervention provides support through the nurse's presence and provides structure as necessary while the patient's 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.
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 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 nurse observes a patient who is diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient is standing immobile, facing the wall with one arm extended in a salute. The patient remains immobile in this position for 15 minutes, moving only when the nurse gently lowers the arm. What is the name of this phenomenon? a. Echolalia b. Waxy flexibility c. Depersonalization d. Thought withdrawal
B Waxy flexibility is the ability to hold distorted postures for extended periods, as though the patient were molded in wax. Echolalia is a speech pattern. Depersonalization refers to a feeling state. Thought withdrawal refers to an alteration in thinking.
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 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 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 patient's feelings about cutting.
B 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. All other options provide positive reinforcement of the behavior
A patient with anorexia nervosa is resistant to weight gain. What is the rationale for establishing a contract with the patient to participate in measures designed to produce a specified weekly weight gain? a. Because severe anxiety concerning eating is expected, objective and subjective data must be routinely collected. b. Patient involvement in decision-making increases a sense of control and promotes compliance with the treatment. c. A team approach to planning the diet ensures that physical and emotional needs are met. d. Because of increased risk of physical problems with refeeding, obtaining patient permission is essential.
B A sense of control for the patient is vital to the success of therapy. A diet that controls weight gain can allay patient fears of a too-rapid weight gain. Data collection is not the reason for contracting. A team approach is wise but is not a guarantee that needs will be met. Permission for treatment is a separate issue. The contract for weight gain is an additional aspect of treatment.
An appropriate intervention for a patient with bulimia nervosa who binges and purges is to teach the patient to: a. eat a small meal after purging. b. avoid skipping meals or restricting food. c. concentrate intake after 4 PM daily. d. understand the value of reading journal entries aloud to others.
B One goal of health teaching is the normalization of eating habits. Food restriction and skipping meals lead to rebound bingeing. Teaching the patient to eat a small meal after purging will probably perpetuate the need to induce vomiting. Teaching the patient to concentrate intake after 4 PM will lead to late-day bingeing. Journal entries are private
Which personality characteristic is a nurse most likely to assess in a patient with anorexia nervosa? a. Carefree flexibility b. Rigidity, perfectionism c. Open displays of emotion d. High spirits and optimism
B Rigid thinking, inability to demonstrate flexibility, and difficulty changing cognitions are characteristic of patients with eating disorders. The incorrect options are rare in a patient with an eating disorder. Inflexibility, controlled emotions, and pessimism are more the norm.
A nurse set limits for a patient 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. You're terrible." This outburst can be assessed as: a. denial. b. splitting. c. reaction formation. d. separation-individuation strategies.
B 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.
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 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 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, C 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.
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, D Individuals with antisocial personality disorders characteristically demonstrate manipulative, exploitative, aggressive, callous, and guilt-instilling behaviors. Individuals with antisocial personality disorders are more extroverted than reclusive, rarely show anxiety, and rarely demonstrate clinging or dependent behaviors. Individuals with antisocial personality disorders are more likely to be impulsive than to be perfectionists
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, D 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.
What are the primary distinguishing factors between the behavior of children diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and those diagnosed with conduct disorder (CD)? (Select all that apply.) The child diagnosed with: a. ODD relives traumatic events by acting them out. b. ODD tests limits and disobeys authority figures. c. ODD has difficulty separating from the parents. d. CD uses stereotypical or repetitive language. e. CD often violates the rights of others.
B, E Children with ODD are negativistic, disobedient, and defiant toward authority figures without seriously violating the basic rights of others, whereas children with CD frequently behave in ways that violate the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms. Reliving traumatic events occurs with post-traumatic stress disorder. Stereotypical language behaviors are observed in autistic children. Separation problems with resultant anxiety occur with separation anxiety disorder.
A nurse at the mental health clinic plans a series of psychoeducational groups for persons diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which two topics would take priority? a. How to complete an application for employment b. The importance of correctly taking your medication c. How to dress when attending community events d. How to give and receive compliments e. Ways to quit smoking
B, E Stabilization is maximized by the adherence to the antipsychotic medication regimen. Because so many patients with schizophrenia smoke cigarettes, this topic relates directly to the patients' physiologic well-being. The other topics are also important but are not priority topics.
A patient undergoing alcohol rehabilitation decides to accept disulfiram (Antabuse) therapy to avoid impulsively responding to drinking cues. Which information should be included in the discharge teaching for this patient? Select all that apply. a. Avoid aged cheeses. b. Read labels of all liquid medications. c. Wear sunscreen and avoid bright sunlight. d. Maintain an adequate dietary intake of sodium. e. Avoid breathing fumes of paints, stains, and stripping compounds.
B, E The patient must avoid hidden sources of alcohol. Many liquid medications, such as cough syrups, contain small amounts of alcohol that could trigger an alcohol-disulfiram reaction. Using alcohol-based skin products such as aftershave or cologne; smelling alcohol-laden fumes; and eating foods prepared with wine, brandy, beer, or spirits of any sort may also trigger reactions. The other options do not relate to hidden sources of alcohol.
How is a treatment plan formed?
Begins w/ a medical assessment, then comprehensive assessments are conducted by multidisciplinary team, and a plan of care is developed, monitored, evaluated, and refined.
What is an appropriate initial outcome for a patient 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 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. The patient will ideally 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.
The most challenging nursing intervention with patients 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 is by far the most difficult intervention because of the patient's 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.
Over the past year, a woman has cooked gourmet meals for her family but eats only tiny servings. This person wears layered loose clothing and now has amenorrhea. Her current weight is 95 pounds, a loss of 35 pounds. Which medical diagnosis is most likely? a. Binge eating b. Bulimia nervosa c. Anorexia nervosa d. Eating disorder not otherwise specified
C Overly controlled eating behaviors, extreme weight loss, amenorrhea, preoccupation with food, and wearing several layers of loose clothing to appear larger are part of the clinical picture of an individual with anorexia nervosa. The individual with bulimia usually is near normal weight. The binge eater is often overweight. The patient with an eating disorder not otherwise specified may be obese.
Consider these comments to three different nurses by a patient with an antisocial personality disorder: "You're a better nurse than the day shift nurse said you were"; "Another nurse said you don't do your job right"; "You think you're perfect, but I've seen you make three mistakes." Collectively, these interactions can be assessed as: a. Seductive b. Detached c. Manipulative d. Guilt producing
C 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.
A patient with borderline personality disorder and a history of selfmutilation has now begun dialectical behavior therapy on an outpatient basis. Counseling focuses on self-harm behavior management. Today the patient telephones to say, "I'm 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 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 patient's ability to weigh alternatives to mutilating behavior.
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 patient's 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 patient's behavior.
C 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.
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 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 who is referred to the eating disorders clinic has lost 35 pounds in the past 3 months. To assess the patient's oral intake, the nurse should ask: a. "Do you often feel fat?" b. "Who plans the family meals?" c. "What do you eat in a typical day?" d. "What do you think about your present weight?"
C Although all the questions might be appropriate to ask, only "What do you eat in a typical day?" focuses on the eating patterns. Asking if the patient often feels fat focuses on distortions in body image. Questions about family meal planning are unrelated to eating patterns. Asking for the patient's thoughts on present weight explores the patient's feelings about weight.
A woman wears a size 7 shoe. She says, "My feet are huge. I've asked three orthopedists to surgically reduce my feet." The patient tries to buy shoes to make her feet look smaller and, in social settings, conceals both feet under a table or chair. Which health problem is likely? a. Dissociative amnesia with fugue b. Illness anxiety disorder c. Body dysmorphic disorder d. Dissociative identity disorder
C Body dysmorphic disorder refers to a preoccupation with an imagined defect in appearance in a normal-appearing person. The patient's feet are proportional to the rest of her body. Dissociative amnesia with fugue is characterized by sudden, unexpected travel away from the customary locale and the inability to recall one's identity and information about some or all of the past. Illness anxiety disorder involves a belief that one has a serious, life-threatening illness when none exists. Dissociative identity disorder involves the existence of two or more personality states that take control of one's behavior.
A patient is admitted in a comatose state after ingesting 30 capsules of pentobarbital sodium. A friend of the patient says, "Often my friend drinks, along with taking more of the drug than is prescribed." What is the effect of the use of alcohol with this drug? a. The drug's metabolism is stimulated. b. The drug's effect is diminished. c. A synergistic effect occurs. d. There is no effect.
C Both pentobarbital and alcohol are CNS depressants and have synergistic effects. Taken together, the action of each would potentiate the other.
A 15-year-old adolescent has run away from home six times. After the adolescent was arrested for prostitution, the parents told the court, "We can't manage our teenager." The adolescent is physically abusive to the mother and defiant with the father. The adolescent's problem is most consistent with criteria for: a. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). b. childhood depression. c. conduct disorder (CD). d. autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
C CDs are manifested by a persistent pattern of behavior in which the rights of others and age-appropriate societal norms are violated. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) (DSM-5) identifies CDs as serious violations of rules. The patient's clinical manifestations do not coincide with the other disorders listed.
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 attempts to alter the patient's 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 patient diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder has been in treatment for 4 weeks. The patient says, "Although I'm still having pain, I notice it less and am able to perform more activities." The nurse should evaluate the treatment plan as: a. unsuccessful. b. minimally successful. c. partially successful. d. totally achieved.
C Decreased preoccupation with symptoms and an increased ability to perform activities of daily living suggest partial success of the treatment plan. Total success is rare because of patient resistance.
A newly hospitalized patient has needle tracks on both arms. A friend states that the patient uses heroin daily but has not used in the past 24 hours. The nurse should assess the patient for: a. slurred speech, excessive drowsiness, and bradycardia. b. paranoid delusions, tactile hallucinations, and panic. c. runny nose, yawning, insomnia, and chills. d. anxiety, agitation, and aggression.
C Early signs and symptoms of narcotic withdrawal resemble symptoms of onset of a flulike illness, but without temperature elevation. The incorrect options reflect signs of intoxication or CNS depressant overdose and CNS stimulant or hallucinogen use.
A patient was started on escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago and now says, "This medicine isn't working." The nurse's 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 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.
An adolescent was arrested for prostitution and assault on a parent. The adolescent says, "I hate my parents. They focus all their attention on my brother, who's perfect in their eyes." Which type of therapy might promote the greatest change in this adolescent's behavior? a. Bibliotherapy b. Play therapy c. Family therapy d. Art therapy
C Family therapy focuses on problematic family relationships and interactions. The patient has already identified problems within the family.
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 Frequent team meetings are held to counteract the effects of the patient's 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 behavior indicates that the treatment plan for a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder was effective? The child: a. plays with one toy for 30 minutes. b. repeats words spoken by a parent. c. holds the parent's hand while walking. d. spins around and claps hands while walking.
C Holding the hand of another person suggests relatedness. Usually, a child with autism would resist holding someone's hand and stand or walk alone, perhaps flapping arms or moving in a stereotypical pattern. The other options reflect behaviors that are consistent with autistic disorder.
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 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.
While providing health teaching for a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, a nurse should emphasize information about: a. self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake. b. establishing the desired daily weight gain. c. recognizing symptoms of hypokalemia. d. self-esteem maintenance.
C Hypokalemia results from potassium loss associated with vomiting. Physiologic integrity can be maintained if the patient can self-diagnose potassium deficiency and adjust the diet or seek medical assistance. Self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake is not useful if the patient purges. Daily weight gain may not be desirable for a patient with bulimia nervosa. Self-esteem is an identifiable problem but is of lesser priority than the risk for hypokalemia.
A patient who fears serious heart disease was referred to the mental health center by a cardiologist after diagnostic evaluation showed no physical illness. The patient says, "My heart misses beats. I'm frequently absent from work. I don't go out much because I need to rest." Which health problem is most likely? a. Body dysmorphic disorder b. Antisocial personality disorder c. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) d. Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
C Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) involves a preoccupation with fears of having a serious disease, even when evidence to the contrary is available. The preoccupation causes impairment in social or occupational functioning. Body dysmorphic disorder involves a preoccupation with one's perceived defective body parts or appearance. Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is a disorder of lowered mood. Antisocial disorder applies to a personality disorder in which the individual has little regard for the rights of others.
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 Limits must be set in areas in which the patient's 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.
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 is by far the most difficult intervention because of the patient's 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.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has auditory hallucinations, delusions of grandeur, poor personal hygiene, and motor agitation. Which assessment finding would the nurse regard as a negative symptom of schizophrenia? a. Auditory hallucinations b. Delusions of grandeur c. Poor personal hygiene d. Motor agitation
C Negative symptoms include apathy, anhedonia, poor social functioning, and poverty of thought. Poor personal hygiene is an example of poor social functioning. The distractors are positive symptoms of schizophrenia.
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 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.
Consider these comments made to three different nurses by a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder: "You're a better nurse than the day shift nurse said you were"; "Another nurse said you don't do your job right"; "You think you're perfect, but I've seen you make three mistakes." Collectively, these interactions can be assessed as: a. seductive. b. detached. c. manipulative. d. guilt producing.
C 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.
A patient experiencing acute mania undresses in the group room and dances. The nurse's first intervention would be to: a. quietly ask the patient, "Why don't 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 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.
The child most likely to receive propranolol (Inderal) to control aggression, deliberate self-injury, and temper tantrums is one diagnosed with: a. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). b. post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). c. autism spectrum disorder (ASD). d. separation anxiety.
C Propranolol is useful for controlling aggression, deliberate self-injury, and temper tantrums of some children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. It is not indicated in any of the other disorders.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken fluphenazine (Prolixin) 5 mg orally twice daily for 3 weeks. The nurse now assesses a shuffling, propulsive gait; a masklike face; and drooling. Which term applies to these symptoms? a. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome b. Hepatocellular effects c. Pseudoparkinsonism d. Akathisia
C Pseudoparkinsonism induced by antipsychotic medication mimics the symptoms of Parkinson disease. It frequently appears within the first month of treatment. Hepatocellular effects would produce abnormal liver test results. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by autonomic instability. Akathisia produces motor restlessness.
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, "I'll throw the pool balls if anyone comes near me." The nurse's 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 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.
A patient diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder says, "I have pain from an undiagnosed injury. I can't take care of myself. I need pain medicine six or seven times a day. I feel like a baby because my family has to help me so much." It is important for the nurse to assess: a. mood. b. cognitive style. c. secondary gains. d. identity and memory.
C Secondary gains should be assessed. The patient's dependency needs may be met through care from the family. When secondary gains are prominent, the patient is more resistant to giving up the symptom. The scenario does not allude to a problem of mood. Cognitive style and identity and memory assessment are of lesser concern because the patient's diagnosis has been established.
To assist a patient diagnosed with a somatic system disorder, a nursing intervention of high priority is to: a. imply that somatic symptoms are not real. b. help the patient suppress feelings of anger. c. shift the focus from somatic symptoms to feelings. d. investigate each physical symptom as soon as it is reported.
C Shifting the focus from somatic symptoms to feelings or to neutral topics conveys an interest in the patient as a person rather than as a condition. The need to gain attention with the use of symptoms is reduced over the long term. A desired outcome is that the patient expresses feelings, including anger, if it is present. Once physical symptoms have been investigated, they do not need to be reinvestigated each time the patient reports them.
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 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 newly admitted patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "The voices are bothering me. They yell and tell me I'm bad. I have got to get away from them." Select the nurse's most helpful reply. a. "Do you hear the voices often?" b. "Do you have a plan for getting away from the voices?" c. "I will stay with you. Focus on what we are talking about, not the voices." d. "Forget the voices. Ask some other patients to sit and talk with you."
C Staying with a distraught patient who is hearing voices serves several purposes: ongoing observation, the opportunity to provide reality orientation, a means of helping dismiss the voices, the opportunity of forestalling an action that would result in self-injury, and general support to reduce anxiety. Asking if the patient hears voices is not particularly relevant at this point. Asking if the patient plans to "get away from the voices" is relevant for assessment purposes but is less helpful than offering to stay with the patient while encouraging a focus on their discussion. Asking other patients to talk incorrectly shifts responsibility for intervention from the nurse to other patients.
A patient was admitted 48 hours ago for injuries sustained while intoxicated. The patient is shaky, irritable, anxious, and diaphoretic. The pulse rate is 130 beats per minute. The patient shouts, "Snakes are crawling on my bed. I've got to get out of here." What is the most accurate assessment of the situation? The patient: a. is attempting to obtain attention by manipulating staff. b. may have sustained a head injury before admission. c. has symptoms of alcohol withdrawal delirium. d. is having a recurrence of an acute psychosis.
C Symptoms of agitation, elevated pulse, and perceptual distortions point to alcohol withdrawal delirium, a medical emergency. The findings are inconsistent with manipulative attempts, head injury, or functional psychosis.
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 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.
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 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.
As a patient admitted to the eating disorders unit undresses, a nurse observes that the patient's body is covered by fine, downy hair. The patient weighs 70 pounds and is 5 feet, 4 inches tall. Which condition should be documented? a. Amenorrhea b. Alopecia c. Lanugo d. Stupor
C The fine, downy hair noted by the nurse is called lanugo. It is frequently seen in patients with anorexia nervosa. None of the other conditions can be supported by the data the nurse has gathered.
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. I'll take it when I finish combing my hair." What is the nurse's best response? a. Reinforce this assertive action by the patient. Leave the medication on the table as requested. b. Respond to the patient, "I'm 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 don't you want to take your medication now?"
C The individual with a borderline personality disorder characteristically demonstrates manipulative, splitting, and self-destructive behaviors. Consistent limit setting is vital for the patient's safety, as well as to prevent splitting other staff members. "Why" questions are not therapeutic.
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, "I'm 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 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 patient's ability to weigh alternatives to mutilating behavior.
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 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.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "My co-workers are out to get me. I also saw two doctors plotting to overdose me." How does this patient perceive the environment? a. Disorganized b. Unpredictable c. Dangerous d. Bizarre
C The patient sees the world as hostile and dangerous. This assessment is important because the nurse can be more effective by using empathy to respond to the patient. Data are not present to support any of the other options.
Shortly after a 15-year-old's parents announce a plan to divorce, the adolescent stops participating in sports, sits alone at lunch, and avoids former friends. The adolescent says, "All the other kids have families. If my parents loved me, then they would stay together." Which nursing intervention is most appropriate? a. Develop a plan for activities of daily living. b. Communicate disbelief relative to the adolescent's feelings. c. Assist the adolescent to differentiate reality from perceptions. d. Assess and document the adolescent's level of depression daily.
C The patient's perceptions that "all the other kids" are from two-parent households and that he or she is different are not based in reality. Assisting the patient to test the accuracy of the perceptions is helpful.
A patient's employment is terminated and major depressive disorder results. The patient says to the nurse, "I'm not worth the time you spend with me. I'm 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 The patient's 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 patient who was admitted for a heroin overdose received naloxone (Narcan), which improved the breathing pattern. Two hours later, the patient reports muscle aches, abdominal cramps, gooseflesh and says, "I feel terrible." Which analysis is correct? a. The patient is exhibiting a prodromal symptom of seizures. b. An idiosyncratic reaction to naloxone is occurring. c. Symptoms of opiate withdrawal are present. d. The patient is experiencing a relapse.
C The symptoms given in the question are consistent with narcotic withdrawal and result from administration of naloxone. Early symptoms of narcotic withdrawal are flulike in nature. Seizures are more commonly observed in alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
Which assessment findings best correlate to the withdrawal from central nervous system depressants? a. Dilated pupils, tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, elation b. Labile mood, lack of coordination, fever, drowsiness c. Nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, anxiety, tremors d. Excessive eating, constipation, headache
C The symptoms of withdrawal from various CNS depressants are similar. Generalized seizures are possible.
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 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.
A hospitalized patient, injured in a fall while intoxicated, believes spiders are spinning entrapping webs in the room. The patient is anxious, agitated, and diaphoretic. Which nursing intervention has priority? a. Check the patient every 15 minutes. b. Rigorously encourage fluid intake. c. Provide one-on-one supervision. d. Keep the room dimly lit.
C This patient is experiencing alcohol withdrawal delirium. One-on-one supervision is necessary to promote physical safety until sedation reduces the patient's feelings of terror. Checks every 15 minutes would not be sufficient to provide for safety. A dimly lit room promotes illusions. Oral fluids are important, but safety is a higher priority.
A patient admitted yesterday for injuries sustained while intoxicated believes the window blinds are snakes trying to get into the room. The patient is anxious, agitated, and diaphoretic. Which medication can the nurse anticipate the health care provider will prescribe? a. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor, such as phenelzine (Nardil) b. Phenothiazine, such as thioridazine (Mellaril) c. Benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan) d. Narcotic analgesic, such as morphine
C This patient is experiencing alcohol withdrawal delirium. Sedation allows for the safe withdrawal from alcohol. Benzodiazepines are the drugs of choice in most regions because of their high therapeutic safety index and anticonvulsant properties. Antidepressant, antipsychotic, and opioid medications will not relieve the patient's symptoms.
The parent of a child diagnosed with Tourette's disorder says to the nurse, "I think my child is faking the tics because they come and go." Which response by the nurse is accurate? a. "Perhaps your child was misdiagnosed." b. "Your observation indicates the medication is effective." c. "Tics often change frequency or severity. That does not mean they aren't real." d. "This finding is unexpected. How have you been administering your child's medication?"
C Tics are sudden, rapid, involuntary, repetitive movements or vocalizations characteristic of Tourette's disorder. They often fluctuate in frequency and severity and are reduced or absent during sleep.
When a 5-year-old child is disruptive, the nurse says, "You must take a time-out." The expectation is that the child will: a. go to a quiet room until called for the next meal. b. slowly count to 20 before returning to the group activity. c. sit on the edge of the activity until able to regain self-control. d. sit quietly on the lap of a staff member until able to apologize for the behavior.
C Time-out is designed so that staff can be consistent in their interventions. Time-out may require having the child sit on the periphery of an activity until he or she gains self-control and reviews the episode with a staff member. Time-out may not require having the child go to a designated room and does not involve special attention such as holding. Having the child count to 10 or 20 is not sufficient.
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 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.
When a patient with a personality disorder uses 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 patient's 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 patient's behavior.
C 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 patient who is referred to the eating disorders clinic has lost 35 pounds during 3 months. To assess eating patterns, the nurse should ask the patient: a. "Do you often feel fat?" b. "Who plans the family meals?" c. "What do you eat in a typical day?" d. "What do you think about your present weight?"
C Although all the questions might be appropriate to ask, only "What do you eat in a typical day?" focuses on the eating patterns. Asking if the patient often feels fat focuses on distortions in body image. Questions about family meal planning are unrelated to eating patterns. Asking for the patient's thoughts on present weight explores the patient's feelings about weight.
Which characteristic of individuals 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 Frequent team meetings are held to counteract the effects of the patient's 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.
While providing health teaching for a patient with binge-purge bulimia, a nurse should emphasize information about: a. self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake. b. establishing the desired daily weight gain. c. recognizing the symptoms of hypokalemia. d. self-esteem maintenance. a. self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake. b. establishing the desired daily weight gain. c. recognizing the symptoms of hypokalemia. d. self-esteem maintenance
C Hypokalemia results from potassium loss associated with vomiting. Physiologic integrity can be maintained if the patient can self-diagnose potassium deficiency and adjust the diet or seek medical assistance. Self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake is not useful if the patient purges. Daily weight gain may not be desirable for a patient with bulimia nervosa. Self-esteem is an identifiable problem but is of lesser priority than the risk for hypokalemia
A nurse reports to the interdisciplinary team that a patient with an antisocial personality disorder lies to other patients, verbally abuses a patient 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 Limits must be set in areas in which the patient's 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.
As a nurse prepares to administer a medication to a patient with a borderline personality disorder, the patient says, "Just leave it on the table. I'll take it when I finish combing my hair." What is the nurse's best response? a. Reinforce this assertive action by the patient. Leave the medication on the table as requested. b. Respond to the patient, "I'm worried that you might not take it. I'll come back later." c. Say to the patient, "I must watch you take the medication. Please take it now." d. Ask the patient, "Why don't you want to take your medication now?"
C The individual with a borderline personality disorder characteristically demonstrates manipulative, splitting, and self-destructive behaviors. Consistent limit setting is vital for the patient's safety, as well as to prevent splitting other staff members. "Why" questions are not therapeutic
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, D, E 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.
A patient's roommate has observed the patient behaving in uncharacteristic ways, but the patient cannot remember the episodes. Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is suspected. Which questions are most relevant to the assessment of this patient? Select all that apply. a. "Are you sexually promiscuous?" b. "Do you think you need an antidepressant medication?" c. "Have you ever found yourself someplace and did not know how you got there?" d. "Are your memories of childhood clear and complete, or do you have blank spots?" e. "Have you ever found new things in your belongings that you can't remember buying?"
C, D, E Asking, "Are you sexually promiscuous?" would probably produce defensiveness on the part of the patient. If a subpersonality acts out sexually, the main personality is probably not aware of the behavior. "Do you think you need an antidepressant medication?" is a premature question and not in the nurse's scope of practice. All of the other questions are pertinent.
A nurse prepares the plan of care for a 15-year-old adolescent diagnosed with moderate intellectual developmental disorder (IDD). What are the highest outcomes that are realistic for this person? (Select all that apply.) Within 5 years, the person will: a. live unaided in an apartment. b. complete high school or earn a general equivalency diploma (GED). c. independently perform his or her own personal hygiene. d. obtain employment in a local sheltered workshop. e. correctly use public buses to travel in the community.
C, D, E Individuals with moderate intellectual developmental disorder progress academically to about a second grade level. These people can learn to travel in familiar areas and perform unskilled or semiskilled work. With supervision, they can function in the community, but independent living is not likely.
A patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa is hospitalized for treatment. What features should the milieu provide? Select all that apply. a. Flexible mealtimes b. Unscheduled weight checks c. Adherence to a selected menu d. Observation during and after meals e. Monitoring during bathroom tripsf. Privileges correlated with emotional expression
C, D, E Priority milieu interventions support the restoration of weight and a normalization of eating patterns. These goals require close supervision of the patient's eating habits and the prevention of exercise, purging, and other activities. Menus are strictly adhered to. Patients are observed during and after meals to prevent them from throwing away food or purging. All trips to the bathroom are monitored. Mealtimes are structured, not flexible. Weighing is performed on a regular schedule. Privileges are correlated with weight gain and treatment plan compliance
How to reframe
Change the way we look at and feel about things( see the glass half full) Reassess the situation "What would you do different next time?" "What did you learn in this situation?" Consider things from another person point of view
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "Everyone has skin lice that jump on you and contaminate your blood." Which problem is evident? a. Poverty of content b. Concrete thinking c. Neologisms d. Paranoia
D The patient's unrealistic fear of contamination indicates paranoia. Neologisms are invented words. Concrete thinking involves literal interpretation. Poverty of content refers to an inadequate fund of information.
Outpatient treatment is planned for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Select the most important desired outcome related to the nursing diagnosis: Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements. Within 1 week, the patient will: a. Weigh self accurately using balanced scales. b. Limit exercise to less than 2 hours daily. c. Select clothing that fits properly. d. Gain 1 to 2 pounds.
D Only the outcome of a gain of 1 to 2 pounds can be accomplished within 1 week when the patient is an outpatient. The focus of an outcome is not on the patient weighing self. Limiting exercise and selecting proper clothing are important, but weight gain takes priority.
Which assessment finding for a patient with an eating disorder meets a criterion for hospitalization? a. Urine output: 40 ml/hr b. Pulse rate: 58 beats/min c. Serum potassium: 3.4 mEq/L d. Systolic blood pressure: 62 mm Hg
D Systolic blood pressure less than 70 mm Hg is an indicator for inpatient care. Many people without eating disorders have bradycardia (pulse less than 60 beats/min). Urine output should be more than 30 ml/hr. A potassium level of 3.4 mEq/L is within the normal range.
A psychiatric clinical nurse specialist uses cognitive therapy techniques with a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Which statement by the staff nurse supports this type of therapy? a. "What are your feelings about not eating the food that you prepare?" b. "You seem to feel much better about yourself when you eat something." c. "It must be difficult to talk about private matters to someone you just met." d. "Being thin doesn't seem to solve your problems. You're thin now but still unhappy."
D The correct response is the only strategy that attempts to question the patient's distorted thinking.
A patient being admitted to the eating disorders unit has a yellow cast to the skin and fine, downy hair covering the body. The patient weighs 70 pounds; height is 5 feet, 4 inches. The patient is quiet and says only, "I won't eat until I look thin." What is the priority initial nursing diagnosis? a. Anxiety, related to fear of weight gain b. Disturbed body image, related to weight loss c. Ineffective coping, related to lack of conflict resolution skills d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to self-starvation
D The physical assessment shows cachexia, which indicates imbalanced nutrition. Addressing the patient's self-starvation is the priority.
When a nurse finds a patient with anorexia nervosa vigorously exercising before gaining the agreed-upon weekly weight, the nurse should state: a. "You and I will have to sit down and discuss this problem." b. "It bothers me to see you exercising. You'll lose more weight." c. "Let's discuss the relationship between exercise and weight loss and how that affects your body." d. "According to our agreement, no exercising is permitted until you have gained a specific amount of weight
D A matter-of-fact statement that the nurse's perceptions are different helps avoid a power struggle. Treatment plans have specific goals for weight restoration. Exercise is limited to promote weight gain. Patients must be held accountable for required behaviors
When a nurse finds a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa vigorously exercising before gaining the agreed-upon weekly weight, the nurse should state: a. "You and I will have to sit down and discuss this problem." b. "It bothers me to see you exercising. You'll lose more weight." c. "Let's discuss the relationship between exercise and weight loss and how that affects your body." d. "According to our agreement, no exercising is permitted until you have gained a specific amount of weight."
D A matter-of-fact statement that the nurse's perceptions are different helps avoid a power struggle. Treatment plans have specific goals for weight restoration. Exercise is limited to promote weight gain. Patients must be held accountable for required behaviors.
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 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.
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 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 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 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 health care provider considers which antipsychotic medication to prescribe for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who has auditory hallucinations and poor social functioning. The patient is also overweight and has hypertension. Which drug should the nurse advocate? a. clozapine (Clozaril) b. ziprasidone (Geodon) c. olanzapine (Zyprexa) d. aripiprazole (Abilify)
D Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication that is effective against both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. It causes little or no weight gain and no increase in glucose, high- or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, or triglycerides, making it a reasonable choice for a patient with obesity or heart disease. Clozapine may produce agranulocytosis, making it a poor choice as a first-line agent. Ziprasidone may prolong the QT interval, making it a poor choice for a patient with cardiac disease. Olanzapine fosters weight gain.
A parent diagnosed with schizophrenia and 13-year-old child live in a homeless shelter. The child has formed a trusting relationship with a volunteer. The teen says, "I have three good friends at school. We talk and sit together at lunch." What is the nurse's best suggestion to the treatment team? a. Suggest foster home placement. b. Seek assistance from an intimate partner violence program. c. Make referrals for existing and emerging developmental problems. d. Foster healthy characteristics and existing environmental supports.
D Because the teenager shows no evidence of poor mental health, the best action would be to foster existing healthy characteristics and environmental supports. No other option is necessary or appropriate under the current circumstances.
Disturbed body image is the nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with an eating disorder. Which outcome indicator is most appropriate to monitor? a. Weight, muscle, and fat are congruent with height, frame, age, and sex. b. Calorie intake is within the required parameters of the treatment plan. c. Weight reaches the established normal range for the patient. d. Patient expresses satisfaction with body appearance.
D Body image disturbances are considered improved or resolved when the patient is consistently satisfied with his or her own appearance and body function. This consideration is subjective. The other indicators are more objective but less related to the nursing diagnosis.
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 patient's family? a. Decreasing physical activity b. Increasing food and fluids c. Meeting self-care needs d. Psychoeducation
D 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.
A nurse conducting group therapy on the eating disorders unit schedules the sessions immediately after meals for the primary purpose of: a. maintaining patients' concentration and attention. b. shifting the patients' focus from food to psychotherapy. c. focusing on weight control mechanisms and food preparation. d. processing the heightened anxiety associated with eating.
D Eating produces high anxiety for patients with eating disorders. Anxiety levels must be lowered if the patient is to be successful in attaining therapeutic goals. Shifting the patients' focus from food to psychotherapy and focusing on weight control mechanisms and food preparation are not desirable. Maintaining patients' concentration and attention is important, but not the primary purpose of the schedule.
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 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 woman in the last trimester of pregnancy drinks 8 to 12 ounces of alcohol daily. The nurse plans for the delivery of an infant who is: a. jaundiced. b. dependent on alcohol. c. healthy but underweight. d. microcephalic and cognitively impaired.
D Fetal alcohol syndrome is the result of alcohol's inhibiting fetal development in the first trimester. The fetus of a woman who drinks that much alcohol will probably have this disorder. Alcohol use during pregnancy is not likely to produce the findings listed in the distractors.
A 15-year-old adolescent is referred to a residential program after an arrest for theft and running away from home. At the program, the adolescent refuses to participate in scheduled activities and pushes a staff member, causing a fall. Which approach by the nursing staff would be most therapeutic? a. Neutrally permit refusals b. Coax to gain compliance c. Offer rewards in advance d. Establish firm limits
D Firm limits are necessary to ensure physical safety and emotional security. Limit setting will also protect other patients from the teenager's thoughtless or aggressive behavior. Permitting refusals to participate in the treatment plan, coaxing, and bargaining are strategies that do not help the patient learn to abide by rules or structure.
When assessing a patient who has ingested flunitrazepam (Rohypnol), the nurse would expect: a. acrophobia. b. hypothermia. c. hallucinations. d. anterograde amnesia.
D Flunitrazepam is known as the date rape drug. It produces disinhibition and a relaxation of voluntary muscles, as well as anterograde amnesia for events that occur. The other options do not reflect symptoms commonly observed after use of this drug.
When group therapy is to be used as a treatment modality, the nurse should suggest placing a 9-year-old in a group that uses: a. play activities exclusively. b. group discussion exclusively. c. talk focused on a specific issue. d. play then talk about the play activity.
D Group therapy for young children takes the form of play. For elementary school children, therapy combines play and talk about the activity. For adolescents, group therapy involves more talking.
Which assessment findings will the nurse expect in an individual who has just injected heroin? a. Anxiety, restlessness, paranoid delusions b. Heightened sexuality, insomnia, euphoria c. Muscle aching, dilated pupils, tachycardia d. Drowsiness, constricted pupils, slurred speech
D Heroin, an opiate, is a CNS depressant. Blood pressure, pulse, and respirations are decreased, and attention is impaired. The incorrect options describe behaviors consistent with amphetamine use, symptoms of narcotic withdrawal, and cocaine abuse.
Which assessment findings support a nurse's suspicion that a patient has been using inhalants? a. Pinpoint pupils and respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute b. Perforated nasal septum and hypertension c. Drowsiness, euphoria, and constipation d. Confusion, mouth ulcers, and ataxia
D Inhalants are usually CNS depressants, giving rise to confusion and ataxia. Mouth ulcers come from the irritation of buccal mucosa by the inhalant. The incorrect options relate to cocaine snorting and opioid abuse.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has auditory hallucinations. The patient anxiously tells the nurse, "The voice is telling me to do things." Select the nurse's priority assessment question. a. "How long has the voice been directing your behavior?" b. "Do the messages from the voice frighten you?" c. "Do you recognize the voice speaking to you?" d. "What is the voice telling you to do?"
D Learning what a command hallucination is telling the patient to do is important; the command often places the patient or others at risk for harm. Command hallucinations can be terrifying and may pose a psychiatric emergency. The incorrect questions are of lesser importance than identifying the command.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "High heat. Last time here. Did you get a coat?" What type of verbalization is evident? a. Neologism b. Idea of reference c. Thought broadcasting d. Associative looseness
D Looseness of association refers to jumbled thoughts incoherently expressed to the listener. Neologisms are newly coined words. Ideas of reference are a type of delusion. Thought broadcasting is the belief that others can hear one's thoughts.
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 tead. Milk
D Milk is the only beverage listed that provides protein, fat, and carbohydrates. In addition, milk is fortified with vitamins.
A patient admitted to an alcoholism rehabilitation program says, "I'm just a social drinker. I usually have a drink or two at brunch, a few cocktails in the afternoon, wine at dinner, and several drinks during the evening." The patient is using which defense mechanism? a. Rationalization b. Introjection c. Projection d. Denial
D Minimizing one's drinking is a form of denial of alcoholism. The patient's own description indicates that "social drinking" is not an accurate name for the behavior. Projection involves blaming another for one's faults or problems. Rationalization involves making excuses. Introjection involves taking a quality into one's own system.
Which medication is the nurse most likely to see prescribed as part of the treatment plan for both a patient in an alcoholism treatment program and a patient in a program for the treatment of opioid addiction? a. methadone (Dolophine) b. bromocriptine (Parlodel) c. disulfiram (Antabuse) d. naltrexone (Revia)
D Naltrexone is useful for treating both opioid and alcohol addictions. As an opioid antagonist, it blocks the action of opioids. Because it blocks the mechanism of reinforcement, it also reduces or eliminates alcohol craving.
Select the correct etiology to complete this nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder: Disturbed personal identity, related to: a. obsessive fears of harming self or others. b. poor impulse control and lack of self-confidence. c. depressed mood secondary to nightmares and intrusive thoughts. d. cognitive distortions associated with unresolved childhood abuse issues.
D Nearly all patients with dissociative identity disorder have a history of childhood abuse or trauma. None of the other etiology statements is relevant.
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 Nonverbal communication is usually considered more powerful than verbal communication. Downward-casted eyes suggest feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness.
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 Nurses may have expectations for self and patients that are not wholly realistic, especially regarding the patient's 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 patient comes to an outpatient appointment obviously intoxicated. The nurse should: a. explore the patient's reasons for drinking today. b. arrange admission to an inpatient psychiatric unit. c. coordinate emergency admission to a detoxification unit. d. tell the patient, "We cannot see you today because you've been drinking."
D One cannot conduct meaningful therapy with an intoxicated patient. The patient should be taken home to recover and then make another appointment. Hospitalization is not necessary.
Outpatient treatment is planned for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Select the most important outcome related to the nursing diagnosis: Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements. Within 1 week, the patient will: a. weigh self accurately using balanced scales. b. limit exercise to less than 2 hours daily. c. select clothing that fits properly. d. gain 1 to 2 pounds.
D Only the outcome of a gain of 1 to 2 pounds can be accomplished within 1 week when the patient is an outpatient. The focus of an outcome is not on the patient weighing self. Limiting exercise and selecting proper clothing are important, but weight gain takes priority.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has paranoid thinking. The patient angrily tells a nurse, "You are mean and nasty. No one trusts you or wants to be around you." Select the most likely analysis. The patient: a. is trying to manipulate the nurse by using negative comments. b. is likely to experience disorganization and catatonia in the near future. c. is jealous of the nurse's position of power in the relationship. d. may be identifying another person's shortcomings in order to preserve his or her own self-esteem.
D Patients with paranoid ideation often use disparaging comments to preserve one's own self-esteem. There is no evidence the patient is trying to manipulate the nurse or is jealous. This behavior is not predictive of catatonia or disorganization.
A nurse is called to the home of a neighbor and finds an unconscious person still holding a medication bottle labeled "pentobarbital sodium." What is the nurse's first action? a. Test reflexes b. Check pupils c. Initiate vomiting d. Establish a patent airway
D Pentobarbital sodium is a barbiturate. Maintaining a patent airway is the priority when the patient is unconscious. Assessing neurologic function by testing reflexes and checking pupils can wait. Vomiting should not be induced when a patient is unconscious because of the danger of aspiration.
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 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 patient's remarks cannot be assessed as shameful. Lack of trust or concern that others are determined to cause harm is not evident.
The nursing care plan for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa includes the intervention "Monitor for complications of re-feeding." Which body system should a nurse closely monitor for dysfunction? a. Renal b. Endocrine c. Central nervous d. Cardiovascular
D Re-feeding resulting in a too-rapid weight gain can overwhelm the heart, resulting in cardiovascular collapse. Focused assessment becomes a necessity to ensure patient physiologic integrity. The other body systems are not initially involved in the re-feeding syndrome.
Which is an important nursing intervention when giving care to a patient withdrawing from a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant? a. Make physical contact by frequently touching the patient. b. Offer intellectual activities requiring concentration. c. Avoid manipulation by denying the patient's requests. d. Observe for depression and suicidal ideation.
D Rebound depression occurs with the withdrawal from CNS stimulants, probably related to neurotransmitter depletion. Touch may be misinterpreted if the patient is experiencing paranoid tendencies. Concentration is impaired during withdrawal. Denying requests is inappropriate; maintaining established limits will suffice.
A nursing care plan for a patient with anorexia nervosa includes the intervention "monitor for complications of refeeding." Which system should a nurse closely monitor for dysfunction? a. Renal b. Endocrine c. Central nervous d. Cardiovascular
D Refeeding resulting in a too-rapid weight gain can overwhelm the heart, resulting in cardiovascular collapse. Focused assessment becomes a necessity to ensure patient physiologic integrity. The other body systems are not initially involved in the refeeding syndrome.
Which treatment approach is most appropriate for a patient with antisocial tendencies who has been treated several times for substance addiction but has relapsed? a. One-week detoxification program b. Long-term outpatient therapy c. Twelve-step self-help program d. Residential program
D Residential programs and therapeutic communities have goals of complete change in lifestyle, abstinence from drugs, elimination of criminal behaviors, development of employable skills, self-reliance, and honesty. Residential programs are more effective than outpatient programs for patients with antisocial tendencies.
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. "I'm 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 Seeking a staff member instead of impulsively self-mutilating shows an adaptive coping strategy. The incorrect responses demonstrate idealization, devaluation, and wishful thinking.
A 4-year-old child cries and screams from the time the parents leave the child at preschool until the child is picked up 4 hours later. The child is calm and relaxed when the parents are present. The parents ask, "What should we do?" What is the nurse's best recommendation? a. "Send a picture of yourself to school to keep with the child." b. "Arrange with the teacher to let the child call home at playtime." c. "Talk with the school about withdrawing the child until maturity increases." d. "Talk with your health care provider about a referral to a mental health professional."
D Separation anxiety disorder becomes apparent when the child is separated from the attachment figure. Often, the first time separation occurs is when the child goes to kindergarten or nursery school. Separation anxiety may be based on the child's fear that something will happen to the attachment figure. The child needs professional help.
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been stable for a year; however, the family now reports the patient is tense, sleeps 3 to 4 hours per night, and has difficulty concentrating. The patient says, "Demons are in the basement and they can come through the floor." The nurse can correctly assess this information as an indication of: a. need for psychoeducation b. medication noncompliance c. chronic deterioration d. relapse
D Signs of potential relapse include feeling tense, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, increased withdrawal, and increased bizarre or magical thinking. Medication noncompliance may not be implicated. Relapse can occur even when the patient is regularly taking his or her medication. Psychoeducation is more effective when the patient's symptoms are stable. Chronic deterioration is not the best explanation.
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. I'm 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. "I'll sit with you for 10 minutes now and return for 10 minutes at lunchtime and again at 2:30 this afternoon."
D 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.
Which child shows behaviors indicative of mental illness? a. 4-year-old who stuttered for 3 weeks after the birth of a sibling b. 9-month-old who does not eat vegetables and likes to be rocked c. 3-month-old who cries after feeding until burped and sucks a thumb d. 3-year-old who is mute, passive toward adults, and twirls while walking
D Symptoms consistent with an autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) are evident in the correct answer. The behaviors of the other children are within normal ranges.
Which assessment finding for a patient diagnosed with an eating disorder meets a criterion for hospitalization? a. Urine output: 40 ml/hr b. Pulse rate: 58 beats/min c. Serum potassium: 3.4 mEq/L d. Systolic blood pressure: 62 mm Hg
D Systolic blood pressure less than 70 mm Hg is an indicator for inpatient care. Many people without eating disorders have bradycardia (pulse less than 60 beats/min). Urine output should be more than 30 ml/hr. A potassium level of 3.4 mEq/L is within the normal range.
A patient receiving risperidone (Risperdal) reports severe muscle stiffness at 10:30 AM. By noon, the patient is diaphoretic, drooling, and has difficulty swallowing. By 4:00 PM, vital signs are body temperature, 102.8° F; pulse, 110 beats per minute; respirations, 26 breaths per minute; and blood pressure, 150/90 mm Hg. Select the nurse's best analysis and action. a. Agranulocytosis. Institute reverse isolation. b. Tardive dyskinesia. Withhold the next dose of medication. c. Cholestatic jaundice. Begin a high-protein, low fat diet. d. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Immediately notify the health care provider.
D Taking an antipsychotic medication coupled with the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms, such as severe muscle stiffness and difficulty swallowing, hyperpyrexia, and autonomic symptoms (pulse elevation), suggest neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a medical emergency. The symptoms given in this scenario are not consistent with the medical problems listed in the incorrect options.
A patient diagnosed with depersonalization disorder tells the nurse, "It's starting again. I feel as though I'm going to float away." The nurse should help the patient by: a. encouraging meditation. b. administering an anxiolytic medication. c. helping the patient visualize a pleasant scene. d. helping the patient focus on the here and now.
D Talking with someone who can help the patient focus on reality allows the patient to interrupt the stimulus to dissociate. The incorrect options foster detachment.
Which patient diagnosed with schizophrenia would be expected to have the lowest level of overall functioning? a. 39 years old; paranoid ideation since age 35 years b. 32 years old; isolated episodes of catatonia since age 24 years; stable for 3 years c. 19 years old; diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder 6 months ago d. 40 years old; frequent relapses since age 18; often does not take medication as prescribed
D The 40-year-old patient who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia since 18 years of age could logically be expected to have the lowest overall level of functioning secondary to deterioration associated with frequent relapses. The 39-year-old patient who has had paranoid ideation since 35 years of age could be expected to have a higher level because schizophrenia of short duration may be less impairing than other types. The patient who has had episodes of catatonia since the age of 24 years has been stable for more than 3 years, suggesting a higher functional ability. The 19-year-old patient diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder has been ill for only 6 months, and disability is likely to be minimal.
For a patient diagnosed with dissociative amnesia, complete this outcome: "Within 4 weeks, the patient will demonstrate an ability to execute complex mental processes by: a. functioning independently." b. verbalizing feelings of safety." c. regularly attending diversional activities." d. describing previously forgotten experiences."
D The ability to recall previously repressed or dissociated material is an indication that the patient is integrating identity and memory. A patient may verbalize feeling safe but may be disoriented and have memory deficits. A patient may be able to function independently on a basic level without being able to remember significant information. Attending activities is possible without being able to remember antecedent events.
A new patient in an alcoholism rehabilitation program says, "I'm just a social drinker. I usually have a drink or two at brunch, a few cocktails in the afternoon, wine at dinner, and a few drinks in the evening." Which response by the nurse will help the patient view the drinking more honestly? a. "I see," and use interested silence. b. "I think you may be drinking more than you report." c. "Being a social drinker involves having a drink or two once or twice a week." d. "You describe drinking steadily throughout the day and evening. Am I correct?"
D The answer summarizes and validates what the patient reported but is accepting rather than strongly confrontational. Defenses cannot be removed until healthier coping strategies are in place. Strong confrontation does not usually take place so early in treatment.
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 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.
What is the primary difference between somatic system disorders and dissociative disorders? a. Somatic system disorders are under voluntary control, whereas dissociative disorders are unconscious and automatic .b. Dissociative disorders are precipitated by psychological factors, whereas somatic system disorders are related to stress. c. Dissociative disorders are individually determined and related to childhood sexual abuse, whereas somatic system disorders are culture bound. d. Dissociative disorders entail stress-related disruptions of memory, consciousness, or identity, whereas somatic system disorders involve the expression of psychological stress through somatic symptoms.
D The correct response is the only fully accurate statement. Somatic system disorders are not under voluntary control and are not culture bound.
A psychiatric clinical nurse specialist uses cognitive therapy techniques with a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Which statement by the staff nurse supports this type of therapy? a. "What are your feelings about not eating the food that you prepare?" b. "You seem to feel much better about yourself when you eat something." c. "It must be difficult to talk about private matters to someone you just met." d. "Being thin does not seem to solve your problems. You are thin now but still unhappy."
D The correct response is the only strategy that attempts to question the patient's distorted thinking.
A 5-year-old child moves and talks constantly, is easily distracted, and does not listen to the parents. The child awakens before the parents every morning. The child attended kindergarten, but the teacher could not handle the behavior. What is this child's most likely problem? a. Tic disorder b. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) c. Intellectual development disorder (IDD) d. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
D The excessive motion, distractibility, and excessive talkativeness suggest ADHD. Tic disorder is associated with stereotypical, rapid, and involuntary motor movements. Developmental delays would be observed if intellectual development disorder was present. ODD includes serious violations of the rights of others.
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 The impulsive individual acts in haste without taking time to consider the consequences of the action. None of the other options describes impulsivity.
A patient with a history of daily alcohol abuse says, "Drinking helps me cope with being a single parent." Which response by the nurse would help the individual conceptualize the drinking more objectively? a. "Sooner or later, alcohol will kill you. Then what will happen to your children?" b. "I hear a lot of defensiveness in your voice. Do you really believe this?" c. "If you were coping so well, why were you hospitalized again?" d. "Tell me what happened the last time you drank."
D The individual is rationalizing. The correct response will help the patient see alcohol as a cause of the problems, not the solution. This approach can also help the patient become receptive to the possibility of change. The incorrect responses directly confront and attack defenses against anxiety that the patient still needs. They reflect the nurse's frustration with the patient.
A nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa is: Ineffective coping, related to feelings of loneliness as evidenced by overeating to comfort self, followed by self-induced vomiting. The best outcome related to this diagnosis is, "Within 2 weeks the patient will: a. appropriately express angry feelings." b. verbalize two positive things about self." c. verbalize the importance of eating a balanced diet." d. identify two alternative methods of coping with loneliness."
D The outcome of identifying alternative coping strategies is most directly related to the diagnosis of Ineffective coping. Verbalizing positive characteristics of self and verbalizing the importance of eating a balanced diet are outcomes that might be used for other nursing diagnoses. Appropriately expressing angry feelings is not measurable.
A nurse assessing a patient diagnosed with a somatic system disorder is most likely to note that the patient: a. readily sees a relationship between symptoms and interpersonal conflicts. b. rarely derives personal benefit from the symptoms. c. has little difficulty communicating emotional needs. d. has unmet needs related to comfort and activity.
D The patient diagnosed with a somatic system disorder frequently has altered comfort and activity needs. In addition, hygiene, safety, and security needs may also be compromised. The patient is rarely able to see a relation between symptoms and events in his or her life, which is readily discernible to health professionals. Patients with somatic system disorders often derive secondary gain from their symptoms and/or have considerable difficulty identifying feelings and conveying emotional needs to others.
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 nurse's best intervention? a. Educate the patient about the proper ways to perform personal hygiene and coordinate clothing. b. Continue to monitor and document the patient's 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 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 diagnosed with schizophrenia anxiously says, "I can see the left side of my body merging with the wall, then my face appears and disappears in the mirror." While listening, the nurse should: a. sit close to the patient. b. place an arm protectively around the patient's shoulders. c. place a hand on the patient's arm and exert light pressure. d. maintain a normal social interaction distance from the patient.
D The patient is describing phenomena that indicate personal boundary difficulties. The nurse should maintain an appropriate social distance and not touch the patient, because the patient is anxious about the inability to maintain ego boundaries and merging with or being swallowed by the environment. Physical closeness or touch could precipitate panic.
A nurse sits with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient starts to laugh uncontrollably, although the nurse has not said anything funny. Select the nurse's best response. a. "Why are you laughing?" b. "Please share the joke with me." c. "I don't think I said anything funny." d. "You are laughing. Tell me what's happening."
D The patient is likely laughing in response to inner stimuli such as hallucinations or fantasy. Focusing on the hallucinatory clue (i.e., the patient's laughter) and then eliciting the patient's observation is best. The incorrect options are less useful in eliciting a response; no joke may be involved, "Why" questions are difficult to answer, and the patient is probably not focusing on what the nurse has said in the first place.
An adult in the emergency department states, "I feel restless. Everything I look at wavers. Sometimes I'm outside my body looking at myself. I hear colors. I think I'm losing my mind." Vital signs are slightly elevated. The nurse should suspect a: a. cocaine overdose. b. schizophrenic episode. c. phencyclidine (PCP) intoxication. d. D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) ingestion.
D The patient who has ingested LSD often experiences synesthesia (visions in sound), depersonalization, and concerns about going "crazy." Synesthesia is not common in schizophrenia. CNS stimulant overdose more commonly involves elevated vital signs and assaultive, grandiose behaviors. PCP use commonly causes bizarre or violent behavior, nystagmus, elevated vital signs, and repetitive jerking movements.
A person's 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. "I've done some stupid things in my life, but I've learned a lesson." c. "I'm feeling terrible about the way my behavior has hurt my family." d. "I hit because I'm tired of being nagged. My spouse deserved the beating."
D 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.
Which nursing diagnosis is more applicable for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa who restricts intake and is 20% below normal weight than for a 130-pound patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa who purges? a. Powerlessness b. Ineffective coping c. Disturbed body image d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
D The patient with bulimia nervosa usually maintains a close to normal weight, whereas the patient with anorexia nervosa may approach starvation. The incorrect options may be appropriate for patients with either anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Lithium is prescribed for a new patient. Which information from the patient's 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 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 patient was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. The history shows the patient virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. The patient's current serum potassium is 2.7 mg/dl. Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss b. Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia c. Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to malnutrition as evidenced by loss of 25% of body weight and hypokalemia
D The patient's history and laboratory results support the correct nursing diagnosis. Available data do not confirm that the patient uses laxatives, induces vomiting, or exercises excessively. The patient has hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia.
Community Mental Health Center Act 1963
Reflects a shift in emphasis from state or institutional care of the mentally ill to community based care. Emphasized use of psychotropic drugs and awareness
A patient being admitted to the eating disorders unit has a yellow cast to the skin and fine, downy hair covering the body. The patient weighs 70 pounds; height is 5 feet, 4 inches. The patient is quiet and says only, "I won't eat until I look thin." What is the priority initial nursing diagnosis? a. Anxiety, related to fear of weight gain b. Disturbed body image, related to weight loss c. Ineffective coping, related to lack of conflict resolution skills d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to self-starvation
D The physical assessment shows cachexia, which indicates imbalanced nutrition. Addressing the patient's self-starvation is the priority above the incorrect responses.
A 5-year-old child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) bounces out of a chair in the waiting room, runs across the room, and begins to slap another child. What is the nurse's best action? a. Call for emergency assistance from another staff member. b. Instruct the parents to take the child home immediately. c. Direct this child to stop, and then comfort the other child. d. Take the child into another room with toys to act out feelings.
D The use of play to express feelings is appropriate; the cognitive and language abilities of the child may require the acting out of feelings if verbal expression is limited. The incorrect options provide no outlet for feelings or opportunity to develop coping skills.
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 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 diagnosed with schizophrenia tells the nurse, "I eat skiller. Tend to end. Easter. It blows away. Get it?" Select the nurse's best response. a. "Nothing you are saying is clear." b. "Your thoughts are very disconnected." c. "Try to organize your thoughts, and then tell me again." d. "I am having difficulty understanding what you are saying."
D When a patient's speech is loosely associated, confused, and disorganized, pretending to understand is useless. The nurse should tell the patient that he or she is having difficulty understanding what the patient is saying. If a theme is discernible, ask the patient to talk about the theme. The incorrect options tend to place blame for the poor communication with the patient. The correct response places the difficulty with the nurse rather than being accusatory.
Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia who are suspicious and withdrawn: a. universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. b. are socially disabled by the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. c. exhibit a high degree of hostility as evidenced by rejecting behavior. d. avoid relationships because they become anxious with emotional closeness.
D When an individual is suspicious and distrustful and perceives the world and the people in it as potentially dangerous, withdrawal into an inner world can be a defense against uncomfortable levels of anxiety. When someone attempts to establish a relationship with such a patient, the patient's anxiety rises until trust is established. No evidence suggests that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. In most cases, it is not considered true that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia are socially disabled by the positive symptoms of schizophrenia or exhibit a high degree of hostility by demonstrating rejecting behavior.
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 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.
A patient admitted yesterday for injuries sustained in a fall while intoxicated believes snakes are crawling on the bed. The patient is anxious, agitated, and diaphoretic. What is the priority nursing diagnosis? a. Disturbed sensory perception b. Ineffective coping c. Ineffective denial d. Risk for injury
D clouded sensorium, agitation, sensory perceptual distortions, and poor judgment increase the risk for injury. Disturbed sensory perception is an applicable diagnosis, but safety has a higher priority. The scenario does not provide data to support the other diagnoses.
To plan effective care for patients diagnosed with somatic system disorders, the nurse should understand that patients have difficulty giving up the symptoms because the symptoms: a. are generally chronic in nature. b. have a physiological basis. c. can be voluntarily controlled. d. provide relief from health anxiety.
D the unconscious level, the patient's primary gain from the symptoms is anxiety relief. Considering that the symptoms actually make the patient more psychologically comfortable and may also provide a secondary gain, patients frequently and fiercely cling to the symptoms. The symptoms tend to be chronic; however, this does not explain why they are difficult to give up. The symptoms are not under voluntary control or physiologically based.
When preparing to interview a patient with narcissistic personality disorder, a nurse can anticipate the assessment findings will include: a. preoccupation with minute details; perfectionist. b. charm, drama, seductiveness; seeking admiration. c. difficulty being alone; indecisive, submissiveness. d. grandiosity, self-importance, and a sense of entitlement.
D According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fourth edition, text revision) (DSM-IV-TR), the characteristics of grandiosity, self-importance, and a sense of entitlement are consistent with narcissistic personality disorder. Charm, drama, seductiveness, and admiration seeking are observed in patients with histrionic personality disorder. Preoccupation with minute details and perfectionism are observed in individuals with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. Patients with dependent personality disorder often express difficulty being alone and are indecisive and submissive
Disturbed body image is the nursing diagnosis for a patient with an eating disorder. Which outcome indicator is most appropriate to monitor? a. Weight, muscle, and fat are congruent with height, frame, age, and sex. b. Calorie intake is within the required parameters of the treatment plan. c. Weight reaches the established normal range for the patient. d. Patient expresses satisfaction with body appearance.
D Body image disturbances are considered improved or resolved when the patient is consistently satisfied with his or her own appearance and body function. This consideration is subjective. The other indicators are more objective but less related to the nursing diagnosis.
A nurse conducting group therapy on the eating disorders unit schedules the sessions immediately after meals for the primary purpose of: a. Maintaining patients' concentration and attention. b. Shifting the patients' focus from food to psychotherapy. c. Focusing on weight control mechanisms and food preparation. d. Processing the heightened anxiety levels associated with eating.
D Eating produces high anxiety for patients with eating disorders. Anxiety levels must be lowered if the patient is to be successful in attaining therapeutic goals. Shifting the patients' focus from food to psychotherapy and focusing on weight control mechanisms and food preparation are not desirable. Maintaining patients' concentration and attention is important, but not the primary purpose of the schedule.
A patient 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 is a central theme for most patients with borderline personality disorder. This fear is often exacerbated when patients with borderline personality disorder experience success or growth.
A physical therapist recently convicted of multiple counts of Medicare fraud says to a nurse, "Sure I overbilled. Why not? Everyone takes advantage of the government. They have so many rules; no one can follow them." These statements show: a. shame. b. suspiciousness. c. superficial remorse. d. lack of guilt feelings.
D 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 patient's remarks cannot be assessed as shameful. Lack of trust or concern that others are determined to cause harm is not evident.
Which statement made by a patient with borderline personality disorder indicates the treatment plan is effective? a. "I think you are the best nurse on the unit." b. "I'm 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 Seeking a staff member instead of impulsively self-mutilating shows an adaptive coping strategy. The incorrect responses demonstrate idealization, devaluation, and wishful thinking.
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 The impulsive individual acts in haste without taking time to consider the consequences of the action. None of the other options describes impulsivity.
A nursing diagnosis for a patient with bulimia nervosa is: Ineffective coping, related to feelings of loneliness as evidenced by overeating to comfort self, followed by self-induced vomiting. The best outcome related to this diagnosis is that within 2 weeks the patient will: a. appropriately express angry feelings. b. verbalize two positive things about self. c. verbalize the importance of eating a balanced diet. d. identify two alternative methods of coping with loneliness.
D The outcome of identifying alternative coping strategies is most directly related to the diagnosis of Ineffective coping. Verbalizing positive characteristics of self and verbalizing the importance of eating a balanced diet are outcomes that might be used for other nursing diagnoses. Appropriately expressing angry feelings is not measurable
A patient's spouse filed charges of battery. The patient says, "I'm sorry for what I did. I need psychiatric help." The patient has a long history of acting-out behaviors and several arrests. Which statement by the patient suggests an antisocial personality disorder? a. "I have a quick temper, but I can usually keep it under control." b. "I've done some stupid things in my life, but I've learned a lesson." c. "I'm feeling terrible about the way my behavior has hurt my family." d. "I hit because I'm tired of being nagged. My spouse deserves the beating."
D 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.
Which nursing diagnosis is more applicable to a patient with anorexia nervosa who restricts intake and is 20% below normal weight than for a 130-pound patient with bulimia nervosa who purges? a. Powerlessness b. Ineffective coping c. Disturbed body image d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
D The patient with bulimia nervosa usually maintains a close to normal weight, whereas the patient with anorexia nervosa may approach starvation. The incorrect options may be appropriate for patients with either anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
A patient has anorexia nervosa. The history shows the patient virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. The serum potassium is 2.7 mg/dl. Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss b. Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia c. Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to reduced oral a. Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss b. Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia c. Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to reduced oral intake as evidenced by loss of 25% of body weight and hypokalemia
D The patient's history and laboratory results support the fourth nursing diagnosis. Available data do not confirm that the patient uses laxatives, induces vomiting, or exercises excessively. The patient has hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia
A patient has anorexia nervosa. The history shows the patient virtually stopped eating 5 months ago and has lost 25% of body weight. The serum potassium is 2.7 mg/dl. Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss b. Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia c. Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to reduced oral a. Adult failure to thrive, related to abuse of laxatives as evidenced by electrolyte imbalances and weight loss b. Disturbed energy field, related to physical exertion in excess of energy produced through caloric intake as evidenced by weight loss and hyperkalemia c. Ineffective health maintenance, related to self-induced vomiting as evidenced by swollen parotid glands and hyperkalemia d. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements, related to reduced oral intake as evidenced by loss of 25% of body weight and hypokalemia
D The patient's history and laboratory results support the fourth nursing diagnosis. Available data do not confirm that the patient uses laxatives, induces vomiting, or exercises excessively. The patient has hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia
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 This 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 at least two other 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.
While caring for a patient with a methamphetamine overdose, which tasks are the priorities of care? Select all that apply. a. Administration of naloxone (Narcan) b. Vitamin B12 and folate supplements c. Restoring nutritional integrity d. Prevention of seizurese. Reduction of fever
D, E Hyperpyrexia and convulsions are common when a patient has overdosed on a CNS stimulant. These problems are life threatening and take priority. Naloxone (Narcan) is administered for opiate overdoses. Vitamin B12 and folate may be helpful for overdoses from solvents, gases, or nitrates. Nutrition is not a priority in an overdose situation.
Severe Anxiety
Difficulty noticing events occurring in the environment Learning and Problem solving are not possible Dazed and confused Increased severity of somatic symptoms
How to help alleviate anxiety
Explanations of all interventions or procedures are provided to the patient before they are performed
The second part of the fight or flight response is caused by the :
HPA Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cortex which activates the response.
Interpersonal Theory
Harry Stack Sullivan (1953) believed that individual behavior and personality development are the direct result of interpersonal relationships. Human beings are driven by the need for interaction
When to assess for the use of a date rape drug
If the description of the event includes loss of consciousness, vomiting.. Obtain a urine sample
Democratic form of self government in milieu therapy
Includes those hospitalized and activities that promote recovery. Patients Rights *Environment in which holistic treatment occurs
Cardinal signs of PTSD
Intrusive reexperiencing of the initial trauma (flashback) Avoidance Persistent negative alterations in cognitions and mood Alterations and arousal and activity ( Irritable, angry)
Used to stabilize mania
Lithium and Anticonvulsants they take 5-10 days to reach therapeutic levels
What is the last thing we use regarding restraint and seclusion?
Mechanical restraint and seclusion
Mentally Healthy Behavior-Mental Illness
Medical conditions that affect a persons thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning
Stress reduction techniques
Meditation, prayer , mindfulness Physical Activity Seek Social support
Who has 1 in 3 chances of being raped
Native Americans and Alaskan Native Americans 2.5 times more likely to be raped or sexually assaulted
What are therapeutic Forms of Touch?
Normally perceived as a gesture of warmth and friendship ex. holding a patients hand: geared towards Hispanics
Adventitious Crisis
Not a common part everyday life unplanned and tend to be catastrophic or violent in nature Ex. Natural disasters, war, school shooting, rape, spousal abuse
Have a higher rate of sexual victimization
People ages 16 to 19 Children between the ages of 8 and 12
5 kinds of elder abuse
Physical Abuse Psychological Abuse Financial or Exploitation Neglect Sexual Abuse
Cholinergics: Acetylcholine
Plays a role in learning and memory Stimulates parasympathetic nervous system regulates mood
Rohypnol (flunitrazepam)
Potent benzodiazepine; 10 times stronger than diazepam Impact within 10-30 minutes and last 2-12 hours More potent w/ alcohol Cause dizziness, amnesia, lack of motor coordination, confusion, nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression, and blackout episodes lasting 8-24 hrs Illegal in the US and can be detected in urine for up to 72 hours Street names- "forget drug", roofie, club drug, roachies, rophies, and Mexican Valium
Stages of the Violence Cycle
Pre-assaultive stage: De-escalation approaches Assaultive stage: Medication, seclusion, restraint Post-assaultive stage: Seclusion and restraint
Highest Priority w/ Spousal trauma murder
Priority is safety by assessing the patients potential for suicide or homicide
Among the most underreported crimes are:
Rape and child molestation
PTSD medications
SSRIS, antidepressants, buspirone (flashbacks, avoidance, numbing) Antidepressants, Benzodiazepines (Hyperarousal) Low-Dose Antipsychotics (transient psychosis) Prazosin-Minipress (Nightmares) Antidepressants (depression) MAO Inhibitors (Panic Attacks)
Priority in monitoring suicidal self restraint
Safety
Why do we use SSRis over other antidepressants?
Selectively results in fewer side effects: SSRis don't inhibit receptors for other neurotransmitters, only serotonin
True Crisis State
Self-limiting and is usually resolved within 4 to 6 weeks
SANE
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner assess the patient, collect data, and provide information and referrals for pts before they leave the ED forensic nurses who have been certified to work w/ victims of sexual violence
SARTS
Sexual Assault Response Team help victims of sexual violence cope w/ present and the aftermath of the sexual violence
A sexual assault victim in the ED
Should be treated as a priority and not left alone
Mentally Healthy Behavior
Successful function mentally when it comes to happiness, control over behavior, appraisal of reality, effectiveness in work , healthy self-concept, satisfying relationships, effective coping strategies
What are you more at risk for w/ a serotonin deficiency?
Suicide
How would you reflect a patients behavior back to them?
Take the form of a question or a simple statement that conveys the nurses observations of the patient during sensitive issues. Ex. "You look like you're upset"?
Contact with the sexual assault patient usually take place in
The ED
forensic evidence
evidence that can be used in court for future prosecution
Nursing care plan w/ TGAs
a. Anticholinergic effects risk for falls cardiotoxicity
What are some non-therapeutic techniques?
a. Asking excessive questions b. Giving approval or disapproval c. Advising d. Asking "why" questions
Inpatient facility
The most intensive care for acutely ill people -provides 24-hr nursing care in a safe and structured setting
What needs to be assessed when talking to an older client and assessing their understanding?
The nurse should be aware of physical limitations, sensory conditions, motor conditions, and medical conditions
Intervention phase of the nursing process
The step which involves action or doing and the actual carrying out of nursing interventions outlined in the plan of care
What type of communication is listening silence and reflection?
Therapeutic techniques
What is the duty to rewarn-rule
a. Based on the case Tarasoff vs. regents of University of California, ruled that a psychotherapists has a duty to warn a patients potential victim of potential harm
restraint
any manual method, physical or mechanical device, material, or equipment that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a patient to move his or her arms, legs, body, or head freely
Assessment in the nursing care plan
Use a holistic approach, collect comprehensive data, involve patient, family and other health care providers
How are personal values used in therapeutic or nontherapeutic technique?
Values are standards and represent an ideal positive or negative. They are usually culturally oriented. We have to be aware of our own values so that we don't let them interfere in the care of a patient.
Rape-trauma syndrome
Variant of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is a common sequela of psychologic trauma. There is an acute phase and a long term phase
Nontherapeutic forms of touch
Varies among different cultures. Touch might easily be experienced as intrusive, aggressive or sexually inviting Ex.Japanese handshake is okay, patting on the back is not
When talking to someone suicidal, what do you assess for?
Verbal and behavioral clues Ex. "I can't take it anymore" "I wont be a problem much longer" "writing farewell notes"
Hierarchy of Interventions for coping w/ aggression
Verbal intervention Trauma-specific interventions psychopharmacology seclusion Restraint
Applying Evidence-Based Practice
What do you already know from experience? What does the literature say? What does the patient want?
Reflection of a patient statement empathetic response
When a nurse tries to be sympathetic, they project their own feelings onto those of the patient Empathetic response: How
Rationalization
a form of self-deception
sexual violence
a sexual act committed against someone without that person's freely given consent. Related to teen pregnancy, STI's and HIV Sexual harassment to rape
comfort room
a special room where a person can go voluntarily to self-manage anxiety and distress
Documentation in the health record
a. Considered 7th step of the nursing process b. Legal documentation c. Is the responsibility of the entire mental health team d. Communicates information to the rest of the team on the patients progress and employs communication technologies to coordinate care for patients
Reflecting: Giving of Information. What does it do for the patient? (SATA)
a. Encourages the patient to accept his or her own ideas and feelings b. Acknowledges the patients rights to have opinions and make decisions c. Encourages the patient to think of self as a capable person
How do you inform or reassure patients about their privacy?
a. Ensure that the patient receives a copy of the HIPAA privacy rule guidelines (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
Protecting a patient who is suicidal
a. Family and community supoprt b. Clinical care c. Restricted access to highly lethal methods of suicide d. Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide e. Cognitive behavioral theory
Examples of the nontherapeutic technique of "Giving advice" or "Approval"
a. Giving advice- assumes the nurse knows best and the patient can't think for themselves Ex. "get out of the situation immediately" b. Giving approval- Implies that the patient is doing the right thing and that not doing it is wrong. Ex. I agree with your decision
Examples of blurring the line of a therapeutic relationship?
a. Overhelping- doing for patients what they can do for themselves or going beyond the needs of the patient b. controlling- assuming control of patients "for their own good" c. Narcissism-finding weakness in patients to feel like you are being helpful
What are the rights of involuntary admission?
a. Patient retains freedom from unreasonable bodily restraints: the right to informed consent, refusal of medications
Who attends disciplinary team meetings
a. Psychitrists, Psychologists, social workers, licensed professional counselors
Informed Consent
a. based on a persons right to self-discrimination b. For consent to be effective legally it must be informed, obtained by the physician and patient must be informed of nature of the problem
How is trust fostered in building of nurse patient relationship?
a. can be nurtured by demonstrating genuineness and empathy, developing positive regard showing consistency, offering assistance in problem solving and support.
Neuroeptic Malignant syndrome
a. caused by an acute reduction in brain dopamine activity b. characterized by low level of consciousness, Increased muscle tone, autonomic dysfunction (tachycardia etc)
Major drug classes used w/ schizophrenia
a. second-generation (SGA) or Atypical Antipsychotic Agents
Criteria for admission into mental health facility
a. well-defined psychiatric problem must be established based on DSM-5 b. Present illness should also be an immediate crisis situation
Sexual Assault
an act of violence, power, and hate. It most often results in severe and long-term trauma
PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
an anxiety disorder characterized by haunting memories, nightmares, social withdrawal, jumpy anxiety, and/or insomnia that lingers for four weeks or more after a traumatic experience
Trauma informed care
an approach to treatment that acknowledges the role that trauma can have on the mental health of individuals *recognizes that various traumas contribute to mental illness and substance abuse.
male rape victims
are more likely to commit suicide and to become infected with HIV
Situational Crisis
arises from an external source and is frequently unanticipated Ex. Loss of job, death of loved one, unwanted pregnancy etc.
lateral bullying
bullying by a person of equal status
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid)
central nervous system depressant Onset is 10-20 minutes and last 1-4 hours Needs 12 hours to be excreted from the body Difficult to detect in ED and used to treat narcolepsy Street name- liquid ecstasy, scoop, homeboy, salty water, and grievous bodily harm
The strongest predictor of adult violence is
childhood aggression
Mental Health Facility
community based facilities provide comprehensive services to prevent and treat mental illness * services include -assessment counseling medication management, and education
Stages of greiving
denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance
personality development
development involving the ways that the enduring characteristics that differentiate one person from another change over the life span- Freud
Nurses in the ED
experience the highest rate of on the job violence
Clinical psychologists
expertise lies in Evaluation, psychological testing, psychotherapy, and counseling
Reframing
finding a new or creative way to think about a stressor that reduces its threat
What should be given before discharge from the ED?
follow up counseling, support groups, referrals to effective legal attorneys, and told what kind of reactions are commonly experienced following a crisis
Low central serotonin (5-HT
has been correlated w/ impulsive aggression as well as suicide
IPV
intimate partner violence
tardive dyskinesia
involuntary movements of the facial muscles, tongue, and limbs; a possible neurotoxic side effect of long-term use of antipsychotic drugs that target certain dopamine receptors
Role blurring
is often a result of unrecognized transference or countertransference
Rationalization
justification of behaviors in a manner that is acceptable to the self and society Ex: Everybody cheats so why shouldn't I ?
The Long-Term Phase/ Delayed- Organized phase
may not occur until months or years after the events characterized by flashbacks PTSD is the long term consequence
Superego
our conscious/moral and ethical stances
Acute/disorganization phase of rape trauma syndrome
physical reactions such as generalized pain throughout the body, eating and sleeping disturbances, and emotional reaction such as fear, anxiety, guilt, humiliation, embarrassment, self-blame, and mood swings
A victim of sexual assault should be provided
pregnancy prophylaxis
Mentally Healthy Behavior- Global Assessment of Function (GAF) score
rated on a scale of 1 to 100 and indicates the patients level of functioning. The higher the score the higher the level of functioning
catastrophic reaction
reacting to something in an unreasonable, exaggerated way
autonomic nervous system
reacts w/ fight or flight response
EGO
sense of self; Intermediary between ID and World
Maturational Crisis
specific tasks that must be monitored throughout development until maturity is reached Ex. Marriage, child birth, retirement
seclusion
the involuntary confinement of a person in a room or area where the person is physically prevented from leaving
Medication refusal
the notion of refusing treatment becomes important if considered to be a "chemical restraint"
I.D
the primitive, instinctive component of personality that operates according to the pleasure principle
bullying
the use of threats or physical force to intimidate and control another person
Long term goals after rape
to have enjoyable sex become a survivor return to precrisis level of functioning
Anger
usually a response to something that is happening or has happened it varies in intensity Its an unplanned reaction to a stressor
Document finding and observations using
verbatim statements