mh 1 pt 2
The nurse is conducting group therapy for geriatric patients. The nurse gives instructions to the patients, "Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful scene, you are very comfortable, nothing is there to disturb you." What feedback given by the patients after the therapy indicates effective therapy? The patients Report relief from pain Are able to remain calm and silent Are able to acknowledge their feelings Are able to empathize with their peers
Report relief from pain
What is the term used to describe the psychological or physical stimuli that are incompatible with the current functioning of an individual and require adaptation in the human body? Endorphins Cytokines Stressors Hormones
Stressors
Which comment by a patient who recently experienced a myocardial infarction indicates use of maladaptive, ineffective coping strategies? a. "My employer should have paid for a health club membership for me." b. "My family will see me through this. It won't be easy, but I will never be alone." c. "My heart attack was no fun, but it showed me up the importance of a good diet and more exercise." d. "I accept that I have heart disease. Now I need to decide if I will be able to continue my work daily."
a. "My employer should have paid for a health club membership for me."
A nurse assesses a patient diagnosed with conversion (functional neurological) 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. "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."
Which assessment question could a nurse ask to help identify secondary gains associated with a somatic symptom disorder? a. "What are you unable to do now but were previously able to do?" b. "How many doctors have you seen in the last year?" c. "Who do you talk to when you're upset?" d. "Did you experience abuse as a child?"
a. "What are you unable to do now but were previously able to do?"
During a psychiatric assessment, the nurse observes a patient's facial expression is without emotion. The patient says, "Life feels so hopeless to me. I've been feeling sad for several months." How will the nurse document the patient's affect and mood? a. Affect depressed; mood flat b. Affect labile; mood euphoric c. Affect flat; mood depressed d. Affect and mood are incongruent.
ANS: C Mood refers to a person's self-reported emotional feeling state. Affect is the emotional feeling state that is outwardly observable by others. When there is no evidence of emotion in a person's expression, the affect is flat. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257-258 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A nurse instructs a patient taking a medication that inhibits the action of monoamine oxidase (MAO) to avoid certain foods and drugs because of the risk of: a. hypotensive shock. b. cardiac dysrhythmia. c. hypertensive crisis. d. cardiogenic shock.
ANS: C Patients taking MAO-inhibiting drugs 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 266 (Table 14-6) | Page 268-269 | Page 270 (Table 14-8) TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A patient diagnosed with major depression says, "No one cares about me anymore. I'm not worth anything." Today the patient is wearing a new shirt and has neat, clean hair. Which remark by the nurse supports building a positive self-esteem for this patient? a. "You look nice this morning." b. "I like the shirt you are wearing." c. "You're wearing a new shirt." d. "You must be feeling better today."
ANS: C 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 making an observation avoid negative interpretations. Saying, "You look nice" or "I like your shirt" gives approval (non-therapeutic techniques). Saying "You must be feeling better today" is an assumption, which is non-therapeutic. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient diagnosed with major depression received six electroconvulsive therapy sessions and aggressive doses of antidepressant medication. 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. Antidepressant medications alter catecholamine levels, which impairs decision-making abilities. b. Antidepressant medications may cause confusion related to limitation of tyramine in the diet. c. Temporary memory impairments and confusion may occur with electroconvulsive therapy. d. The patient needs time to readjust to a pressured work schedule.
ANS: C Recent memory impairment and/or confusion is often present during and for a short time after electroconvulsive therapy. An inappropriate business decision might be made because of forgotten important details. The rationales are untrue statements in the incorrect responses. The patient needing time to reorient to a pressured work schedule is less relevant than the correct rationale. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
A patient diagnosed with depression begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. The nurse should provide information to the patient and family about: a. restricting sodium intake to 1 gram daily. b. minimizing exposure to bright sunlight. c. reporting increased suicidal thoughts. d. maintaining a tyramine-free diet
ANS: C 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 268 (Box 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A patient being treated for depression 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 will advise the patient to: a. "Go to the nearest emergency department immediately." b. "Do not to be alarmed. Take two aspirin and drink plenty of fluids." c. "Take a dose of your antidepressant now and come to the clinic to see the health care provider." d. "Resume taking your antidepressants for 2 more weeks and then discontinue them again."
ANS: 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
The plan of care for a patient in the manic state of bipolar disorder should include which inter-ventions? Select all that apply. c. Provide a structured environment for the patient. d. Ensure that the patient's nutritional needs are met.
ANS: C, D People with mania are hyperactive, grandiose, and distractible. It's most important to ensure the patient receives adequate nutrition. Structure will support a safe environment. Touching the patient may precipitate aggressive behavior. Leading a community meeting would be appropriate when the patient's behavior is less grandiose. Activities that require concentration will produce frustration.
The admission note indicates a patient diagnosed with major depression 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
ANS: C, D, E Anergia refers to a lack of energy. 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 lack of energy, not excessive energy. Anhedonia does not necessarily imply the presence of guilty ruminations. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 257 | Page 261 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
21. Which behavior shows that a nurse values autonomy? The nurse: a. sets limits on a patient's romantic overtures toward the nurse. b. suggests one-on-one supervision for a patient who is suicidal. c. informs a patient that the spouse will not be in during visiting hours. d. discusses available alternatives and helps the patient weigh the consequences.
ANS: D A high level of valuing is acting on one's belief. Autonomy is supported when the nurse helps a patient weigh alternatives and their consequences before the patient makes a decision. Autonomy or self-determination is not the issue in any of the other behaviors.
A patient with acute mania has disrobed in the hall three times in 2 hours. The nurse should: d. arrange for one-on-one supervision.
ANS: 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 proven successful, considering the behavior has continued. Asking if 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.
To plan effective care for patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorders, the nurse should understand that patients have difficulty giving up the symptoms because the symptoms: a.are generally chronic. b. have a physiological basis. c. can be voluntarily controlled. d. provide relief from health anxiety.
ANS: D At 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 secondary gain, patients frequently fiercely cling to the symptoms. The symptoms tend to be chronic, but that does not explain why they are difficult to give up. The symptoms are not under voluntary control or physiologically based. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325-326 | Page 338 (Nursing Care Plan 17-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
When a nurse asks a newly admitted patient to describe social supports, the patient says, "My parents died last year and I have no family. I am newly divorced, and my former in-laws blame me. I don't have many friends because most people my age just want to go out drinking." Which action will the nurse apply? a. Advise the patient that being so particular about potential friends reduces social contact. b. Suggest using the Internet as a way to find supportive others with similar values. c. Encourage the patient to begin dating again, perhaps with members of the church. d. Discuss how divorce support groups could increase coping and social support.
ANS: D High-quality social support enhances mental and physical health and acts as a significant buffer against distress. Low-quality support relationships affect a person's coping negatively. Resuming dating soon after a divorce could place additional stress on the patient rather than helping her cope with existing stressors. Developing relationships on the Internet probably would not substitute fully for direct contact with other humans and could expose her to predators misrepresenting themselves to take advantage of vulnerable persons.
A patient with fears of serious heart disease was referred to the mental health center by a cardiologist. Extensive diagnostic evaluation showed no physical illness. The patient says, "My chest is tight, and my heart misses beats. I'm often absent from work. I don't go out much because I need to rest." Which health problem is most likely? a. Dysthymic disorder b. Somatic symptom disorder c. Antisocial personality disorder d. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)
ANS: D Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) involves 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. Somatic symptom disorder involves fewer symptoms. Dysthymic disorder 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. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient tells the nurse, "I know that I should reduce the stress in my life, but I have no idea where to start." What would be the best initial nursing response? a. "Physical exercise works to elevate mood and reduce anxiety." b. "Reading about stress and how to manage it might be a good place to start." c. "Why not start by learning to meditate? That technique will cover everything." d. "Let's talk about what is going on in your life and then look at possible options."
ANS: D In this case, the nurse lacks information about what stressors the patient is coping with or about what coping skills are already possessed. Further assessment is indicated before potential solutions can be explored. Suggesting exploration of the stress facing the patient is the only option that involves further assessment rather than suggesting a particular intervention.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder has rapidly changing mood cycles. The health care provider prescribes an anticonvulsant medication. To prepare teaching materials, which drug should the nurse anticipate will be prescribed? d. carbamazepine (Tegretol)
ANS: D Some patients with bipolar disorder, especially those who have only short periods between episodes, have a favorable response to the anticonvulsants carbamazepine and valproate. Carbamazepine seems to work better in patients with rapid cycling and in severely paranoid, angry manic patients. Phenytoin is also an anticonvulsant but not used for mood stabilization. Risperidone is not an anticonvulsant. See relationship to audience response question.
Which experiences are most likely to precipitate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Select all that apply. a. A young adult bungee jumped from a bridge with a best friend. b. An 8-year-old child watched an R-rated movie with both parents. c. An adolescent was kidnapped and held for 2 years in the home of a sexual predator. d. A passenger was in a bus that overturned on a sharp curve and tumbled down an embankment. e. An adult was trapped for 3 hours at an angle in an elevator after a portion of the supporting cable breaks.
C, D, E PTSD usually occurs after a traumatic event that is outside the range of usual experience. Examples are childhood physical abuse, torture/kidnap, military combat, sexual assault, and natural disasters, such as floods, tornados, earthquakes, tsunamis; human disasters, such as a bus or elevator accident; or crime-related events, such being taken hostage. The common element in these experiences is the individuals extraordinary helplessness or powerlessness in the face of such stressors. Bungee jumps by adolescents are part of the developmental task and might be frightening, but in an exhilarating way rather than a harmful way. A child may be disturbed by an R-rated movie, but the presence of the parents would modify the experience in a positive way.
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity MULTIPLE RESPONSE 1. The admission note indicates a patient diagnosed with major depression 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 Anergia refers to a lack of energy. 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 lack of energy, not excessive energy. Anhedonia does not necessarily imply the presence of guilty ruminations. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 257 | Page 261 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
The adult child of a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder asks, "Do you think depression and physical illness are connected? Since my father's death, my mother has had shingles and the flu, but she's usually not one who gets sick." Which answer by the nurse best reflects current knowledge? a. "It is probably a coincidence. Emotions and physical responses travel on different tracts of the nervous system." b. "You may be paying more attention to your mother since your father died and noticing more things such as minor illnesses." c. "So far, research on emotions or stress and becoming ill more easily is unclear. We do not know for sure if there is a link." d. "Negative emotions and prolonged stress interfere with the body's ability to protect itself and can increase the likelihood of illness."
ANS: D The correct answer best explains the research. Research supports a link between negative emotions and/or prolonged stress and impaired immune system functioning. Activation of the immune system sends proinflammatory cytokines to the brain, and the brain in turn releases its own cytokines that signal the central nervous system to initiate myriad responses to stress. Prolonged stress suppresses the immune system and lowers resistance to illness. Although the adult child may be more aware of issues involving the mother, the pattern of illnesses described may be an increase from the mother's baseline.
20. During the first interview, a nurse notices that the patient does not make eye contact. The nurse can correctly analyze that: a. the patient is not truthful. b. the patient is feeling sad. c. the patient has a poor self-concept. d. more information is needed to draw conclusion.
ANS: D The data are insufficient to draw a conclusion. The nurse must continue to assess.
What is an essential difference between somatic symptom disorders and factitious disorders? a. Somatic symptom disorders are under voluntary control, whereas factitious disorders are unconscious and automatic. b. Factitious disorders are precipitated by psychological factors, whereas somatic symptom disorders are related to stress. c. Factitious disorders are individually determined and related to childhood sexual abuse, whereas somatic symptom disorders are culture bound. d. Factitious disorders are under voluntary control, whereas somatic symptom disorders involve expression of psychological stress through somatization.
ANS: D The key is the only fully accurate statement. Somatic symptom disorders involve expression of stress through bodily symptoms and are not under voluntary control or culture bound. Factitious disorders are under voluntary control. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325-326 | Page 337-338 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
15. A nurse caring for a withdrawn, suspicious patient recognizes the development of feelings of anger toward the patient. The nurse should: a. suppress the angry feelings. b. express the anger openly and directly with the patient. c. tell the nurse manager to assign the patient to another nurse. d. discuss the anger with a clinician during a supervisory session.
ANS: D The nurse is accountable for the relationship. Objectivity is threatened by strong positive or negative feelings toward a patient. Supervision is necessary to work through a countertransference of feelings.
A nurse assessing a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder is most likely to note that the patient: a.sees a relationship between symptoms and interpersonal conflicts. b. has little difficulty communicating emotional needs to others. c. rarely derives personal benefit from the symptoms. d. has altered comfort and activity needs.
ANS: D The patient frequently has altered comfort and activity needs associated with the symptoms displayed (fatigue, insomnia, weakness, tension, pain, etc.). 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 symptom disorders often derive secondary gain from their symptoms and/or have considerable difficulty identifying feelings and conveying emotional needs to others. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325-326 | Page 338 (Nursing Care Plan 17-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient with diagnosed bipolar disorder was hospitalized 7 days ago and has been taking lithium 600 mg tid. Staff observes increased agitation, pressured speech, poor personal hygiene, and hyperactivity. Which action demonstrates that the nurse understands the most likely cause of the patient's behavior? d. Consider the need to check the lithium level. The patient may not be swallowing medications.
ANS: D The patient is continuing to exhibit manic symptoms. The lithium level may be low from "cheeking" (not swallowing) the medication. The prescribed dose is high, so one would not expect a need for the dose to be increased. Monitoring the patient does not address the problem.
A newly diagnosed patient is prescribed lithium. Which information from the patient's history indicates that monitoring of serum concentrations of the drug will be challenging and critical? d. Heart failure
ANS: 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.
A patient is brought to the Emergency Department after a motorcycle accident. The patient is alert, responsive, and diagnosed with a broken leg. The patient's vital signs are pulse (P) 72 and respiration (R) 16. After being informed surgery is required for the broken leg, which vital sign readings would be expected? a. P 64, R 14 b. P 68, R 12 c. P 72, R 16 d. P 80, R 20
ANS: D The patient would experience stress associated with anticipation of surgery. In times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system takes over (fight or flight response) and sends signals to the adrenal glands, thereby releasing norepinephrine. The circulating norepinephrine increases the heart rate. Respirations increase, bringing more oxygen to the lungs.
A client is displaying symptomatology reflective of a panic attack. In order to help the client regain control, the nurse responds: A. "You need to calm yourself." B. "What is it that you would like me to do to help you?" C. "Can you tell me what you were feeling just before your attack?" D. "I will get you some medication to help calm you."
C. "Can you tell me what you were feeling just before your attack?" A response that helps the client identify the precipitant stressor is most therapeutic.
12. Which remark by a patient indicates passage from the orientation phase to the working phase of a nurse-patient relationship? a. "I don't have any problems." b. "It is so difficult for me to talk about my problems." c. "I don't know how talking about things twice a week can help." d. "I want to find a way to deal with my anger without becoming violent."
ANS: D Thinking about a more constructive approach to dealing with anger indicates a readiness to make a behavioral change. Behavioral change is associated with the working phase of the relationship. Denial is often seen in the orientation phase. It is common early in the relationship, before rapport and trust are firmly established, for a patient to express difficulty in talking about problems. Stating skepticism about the effectiveness of the nurse-patient relationship is more typically a reaction during the orientation phase.
18. A patient says, "People should be allowed to commit suicide without interference from others." A nurse replies, "You're wrong. Nothing is bad enough to justify death." What is the best analysis of this interchange? a. The patient is correct. b. The nurse is correct. c. Neither person is totally correct. d. Differing values are reflected in the two statements.
ANS: D Values guide beliefs and actions. The individuals stating their positions place different values on life and autonomy. Nurses must be aware of their own values and be sensitive to the values of others.
5. A nurse is talking with a patient, and 5 minutes remain in the session. The patient has been silent for most of the session. Another patient comes to the door of the room, interrupts, and says to the nurse, "I really need to talk to you." The nurse should: a. say to the interrupting patient, "I am not available to talk with you at the present time." b. end the unproductive session with the current patient and spend time with the patient who has just interrupted. c. invite the interrupting patient to join in the session with the current patient. d. tell the patient who has interrupted, "This session is 5 more minutes; then I will talk with you."
ANS: D When a specific duration for a session has been set, the nurse must adhere to the schedule. Leaving the first patient would be equivalent to abandonment and would destroy any trust the patient had in the nurse. Adhering to the contract demonstrates that the nurse can be trusted and that the patient and the sessions are important. The incorrect responses preserve the nurse-patient relationship with the silent patient but may seem abrupt to the interrupting patient, abandon the silent patient, or fail to observe the contract with the silent patient.
A patient diagnosed with depression is receiving imipramine (Tofranil) 200 mg qhs. 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. Nasal congestion c. Blurred vision d. Urinary retention
ANS: 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 269 (Box 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
Which nursing diagnosis would be most useful for clients with anxiety disorders? A. Excess fluid volume B. Disturbed body image C. Ineffective role performance D. Disturbed personal identity
C. Ineffective role performance Anxiety disorders often interfere with the usual role performance of clients. Consider the client with agoraphobia who cannot go to work, or the client with obsessive-compulsive disorder who devotes time to the ritual rather than to parenting.
A patient diagnosed with major depression refuses solid foods. In order to meet nutritional needs, which beverage will the nurse offer to this patient? a. Tomato juice b. Hot tea c. Orange juice d. Milk
ANS: D Milk is the only beverage listed that provides protein, fat, and carbohydrates. In addition, milk is fortified with vitamins. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A nurse is caring for a patient with low self-esteem. Which nonverbal communication should the nurse anticipate from this patient? a. Arms crossed b. Smiling inappropriately c. Staring at the nurse d. Eyes pointed downward
ANS: D Nonverbal communication is usually considered more powerful than verbal communication. Downward casted eyes suggest feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 260 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A nurse worked with a patient diagnosed with major depression, severe withdrawal, and psychomotor retardation. After 3 weeks, the patient did not improve. The nurse is most at risk for feelings of: a. guilt and despair. b. interest and pleasure. c. over-involvement. d. ineffectiveness and frustration.
ANS: 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. Nurses rarely become over-involved with patients with depression because of the patient's resistance. Guilt and despair might be seen when the nurse experiences the patient's feelings because of empathy. Interest is possible, but not the most likely result. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 260-261 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
The plan of care for a client who has elaborate washing rituals specifies that response prevention is to be used. Which scenario is an example of response prevention? A. Having the client repeatedly touch "dirty" objects B. Not allowing the client to seek reassurance from staff C. Not allowing the client to wash hands after touching a "dirty" object D. Telling the client that he or she must relax whenever tension mounts
C. Not allowing the client to wash hands after touching a "dirty" object Response prevention is a technique by which the client is prevented from engaging in the compulsive ritual. A form of behavior therapy, response prevention is never undertaken without physician approval.
A nurse provided medication education for a patient diagnosed with major depression who began a new prescription for phenelzine (Nardil). 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. can identify foods with high selenium content that should be avoided. d. confers with a pharmacist when selecting over-the-counter medications.
ANS: D 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 268-269 (Table 14-7) TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A patient became severely depressed when the last of the family's 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. "Our staff members care about you and want to try to help you get better." c. "It is difficult for others to care about you when you repeatedly say the same negative things." d. "I'll sit with you for 10 minutes now and 10 minutes after lunch to help you feel that I care about you."
ANS: D Spending time with the patient at intervals throughout the day shows acceptance by the nurse and will help the patient establish a relationship with the nurse. The therapeutic technique is "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 trust building. The incorrect responses would be difficult for a person with profound depression to believe, provide false reassurance, and are counterproductive. The patient is unable to say positive things at this point. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Lana is out of surgery and on the medical-surgical unit for recovery. You visit her the day after her surgical procedure. While you are in the room, Lana becomes visibly anxious and short of breath, and she states, "I feel so anxious! Something is wrong!" Your best action is to: A. reassure Lana that she is experiencing normal anxiety and do deep breathing exercises with her. B. use the call light to inquire whether Lana has any prn anxiety medication. C. call for help and assess Lana's vital signs. D. tell Lana you will stay with her until the anxiety subsides.
C. call for help and assess Lana's vital signs. In anxiety caused by a medical condition, the individual's symptoms of anxiety are a direct physiological result of a medical condition, such as hyperthyroidism, pulmonary embolism, or cardiac dysrhythmias. In this case Lana is postoperative and could be experiencing a pulmonary embolism, as evidenced by the shortness of breath and anxiety. She needs immediate evaluation for any serious medical condition. The other options would all be appropriate after it has been determined that no serious medical condition is causing the anxiety.
A Gulf War veteran is entering treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. An important facet of assessment is to: A. ascertain how long ago the trauma occurred. B. find out if the client uses acting-out behavior. C. determine use of chemical substances for anxiety relief. D. establish whether the client has chronic hypertension related to high anxiety.
C. determine use of chemical substances for anxiety relief. Substance abuse often coexists with post-traumatic stress disorder. It is often the client's way of self-medicating to gain relief of symptoms.
A disheveled patient with severe depression and psychomotor retardation has not showered for several days. The nurse will: a. bring up the issue at the community meeting. b. calmly tell the patient, "You must bathe daily." c. avoid forcing the issue in order to minimize stress. d. firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering.
ANS: D When patients are unable to perform self-care activities, staff 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study/Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance
A diagnosis of chronic stress is supported by which assessment finding? Select all that apply. Amenorrhea Loss of appetite History of panic attacks Insulin-resistant diabetes Recent treatment for blood clots
Amenorrhea History of panic attacks Insulin-resistant diabetes
What should the nurse do for a patient who is experiencing the alarm stage of stress? Assess for a dry mouth Determine the blood pressure Check oxygen saturation level Assess for signs of depression
Assess for a dry mouth
Panic attacks in Latin American individuals often involve: A. repetitive involuntary actions. B. blushing. C. fear of dying. D. offensive verbalizations.
C. fear of dying. Panic attacks in Latin Americans and Northern Europeans often involve sensations of choking, smothering, numbness or tingling, as well as fear of dying.
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 21. A patient diagnosed with depression repeatedly tells staff, "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 diagnosed 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 255 | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 260 TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 7. A patient says to the nurse, "My life doesn't have any happiness in it anymore. I once enjoyed holidays, but now they're just another day." The nurse documents this report as an example of: a. dysthymia. c. euphoria. b. anhedonia. d. anergia.
B Anhedonia is a common finding in many types of depression. It refers to feelings of a loss of pleasure in formerly pleasurable activities. Dysthymia is a diagnosis. Euphoria refers to an elated mood. Anergia means "without energy." PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 250 | Page 264 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 5. Priority interventions for a patient diagnosed with major depression and feelings of worthlessness should include: a. distracting the patient from self-absorption. b.careful unobtrusive observation around the clock. c.allowing the patient to spend long periods alone in meditation. d.opportunities 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. Regular planned observations of the patient diagnosed with depression may prevent a suicide attempt on the unit. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-3) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 10. A patient diagnosed with major depression tells the nurse, "Bad things that happen are always my fault." Which response by the nurse will best assist the patient to reframe this overgeneralization? 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 extremely hard on yourself. Try to have a positive focus." d."Are you saying that you don't have any good things happen?"
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 cast doubt but do not require the patient to evaluate the statement. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 14. What is the focus of priority nursing interventions for the period immediately after electroconvulsive therapy treatment? a. Nutrition and hydration b. Supporting physiological stability c. Reducing disorientation and confusion d. Assisting the patient to identify and test negative thoughts
B During the immediate post-treatment period, the patient is recovering from general anesthesia; hence, the priority need is to establish and support physiological stability. 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 23. During a psychiatric assessment, the nurse observes a patient's facial expression is without emotion. The patient says, "Life feels so hopeless to me. I've been feeling sad for several months." How will 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 refers to a person's self-reported emotional feeling state. Affect is the emotional feeling state that is outwardly observable by others. When there is no evidence of emotion in a person's expression, the affect is flat. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257-258 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
If a client's record mentions that the client habitually relies on rationalization, the nurse might expect the client to: A. make jokes to relieve tension. B. miss appointments. C. justify illogical ideas and feelings. D. behave in ways that are the opposite of his or her feelings.
C. justify illogical ideas and feelings. Rationalization involves justifying illogical or unreasonable ideas or feelings by developing logical explanations that satisfy the teller and the listener.
Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance 28. A nurse instructs a patient taking a medication 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 MAO-inhibiting drugs 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 266 (Table 14-6) | Page 268-269 | Page 270 (Table 14-8) TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 3. A patient diagnosed with major depression says, "No one cares about me anymore. I'm not worth anything." Today the patient is wearing a new shirt and has neat, clean hair. Which remark by the nurse supports building a positive self-esteem for this patient? a."You look nice this morning." c."I like the shirt you are wearing." b."You're wearing a new shirt." 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 making an observation avoid negative interpretations. Saying, "You look nice" or "I like your shirt" gives approval (non-therapeutic techniques). Saying "You must be feeling better today" is an assumption, which is non-therapeutic. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 13. A nurse taught a patient about a tyramine-restricted diet. Which menu selection would the nurse approve? a. Macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, banana bread, caffeinated coffee b. Mashed potatoes, ground beef patty, corn, green beans, apple pie c. Avocado salad, ham, creamed potatoes, asparagus, chocolate cake d. Noodles with cheddar cheese sauce, smoked sausage, lettuce salad, yeast rolls
B The correct answer describes a meal that contains little tyramine. Vegetables and fruits contain little or no tyramine. Fresh ground beef and apple pie are safe. The other meals contain various amounts of tyramine-rich foods or foods that contain vasopressors: avocados, ripe bananas (banana bread), sausages/hot dogs, smoked meat (ham), cheddar cheese, yeast, caffeine drinks, and chocolate. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14?6) | Page 268-269 (Table 14-7) TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 29. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TCM) is scheduled for a patient diagnosed with major depression. Which comment by the patient indicates teaching about the procedure was effective? a."They will put me to sleep during the procedure so I won't know what is happening." b."I might be a little dizzy or have a mild headache after each procedure." c."I will be unable to care for my children for about 2 months." d."I will avoid eating foods that contain tyramine."
B Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TCM) treatments take about 30 minutes. Treatments are usually 5 days a week. Patients are awake and alert during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience a headache and lightheadedness. No neurological deficits or memory problems have been noted. The patient will be able to care for children. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
A young adult applying for a position is mildly tense but eager to begin the interview. This can be assessed as showing: A. denial. B. compensation. C. normal anxiety. D. selective inattention.
C. normal anxiety. Normal anxiety is a healthy life force needed to carry out the tasks of living and striving toward goals. It prompts constructive actions.
A person who recently gave up smoking and now talks constantly about how smoking fouls the air, causes cancer, and "burns" money that could be better spent to feed the poor is demonstrating: A. projection. B. rationalization. C. reaction formation. D. undoing.
C. reaction formation. Reaction formation keeps unacceptable feelings or behaviors out of awareness by developing the opposite behavior or emotion.
A client frantically reports to the nurse that "You have got to help me! Something terrible is happening. I can't think. My heart is pounding, and my head is throbbing." The nurse should assess the client's level of anxiety as: A. mild. B. moderate. C. severe. D. panic.
C. severe. Severe anxiety is characterized by feelings of falling apart and impending doom, impaired cognition, and severe somatic symptoms such as headache and pounding heart.
When prescribed lorazepam (Ativan) 1 mg po qid for 1 week for generalized anxiety disorder, the nurse should: A. question the physician's order because the dose is excessive. B. explain the long-term nature of benzodiazepine therapy. C. teach the client to limit caffeine intake. D. tell the client to expect mild insomnia.
C. teach the client to limit caffeine intake. Caffeine is an antagonist of antianxiety medication.
A nurse teaches a patient a technique for examining negative thoughts and restating them in positive ways. This technique is called Guided imagery Wishful thinking Cognitive reframing Confrontational assertion
Cognitive reframing cognitive reframing calls for changing the viewpoint of a situation and replacing it with another viewpoint that fits the facts but is less negative
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 9. A patient diagnosed with depression is receiving imipramine (Tofranil) 200 mg qhs. 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 269 (Box 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 22. A patient diagnosed with major depression refuses solid foods. In order to meet nutritional needs, which beverage will the nurse offer to this patient? a. Tomato juice b. Orange juice c. Hot tea d. Milk
D Milk is the only beverage listed that provides protein, fat, and carbohydrates. In addition, milk is fortified with vitamins. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 26. A nurse is caring for a patient with low self-esteem. Which nonverbal communication should the nurse anticipate from this patient? 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 260 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 11. A nurse worked with a patient diagnosed with major depression, severe withdrawal, and psychomotor retardation. After 3 weeks, the patient did not improve. The nurse is most at risk for feelings of: a. guilt and despair. b. over-involvement. 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. Nurses rarely become over-involved with patients with depression because of the patient's resistance. Guilt and despair might be seen when the nurse experiences the patient's feelings because of empathy. Interest is possible, but not the most likely result. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 260-261 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 15. A nurse provided medication education for a patient diagnosed with major depression who began a new prescription for phenelzine (Nardil). 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. can identify foods with high selenium content that should be avoided. d. confers with a pharmacist when selecting over-the-counter medications.
D 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 268-269 (Table 14-7) TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
Which of the following is true of the relationship between bipolar disorder and suicide? Patients need to be monitored only in the depressed phase because this is when suicides occur. Suicide is a serious risk because nearly 20% of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder commit suicide. Patients with bipolar disorder are not considered high risk for suicide. As long as patients with bipolar disorder adhere to their medication regimen, there is little risk for suicide.
Suicide is a serious risk because nearly 20% of those diagnosed with bipolar disorder commit suicide. Mortality rates for bipolar disorder are severe because 25% to 60% of individuals with bipolar disorder will make a suicide attempt at least once in their lifetime, and nearly 20% of all deaths among this population are from suicide. Suicides occur in both the depressed and the manic phase. Bipolar patients are always considered high risk for suicide because of impulsivity while in the manic phase and hopelessness when in the depressed phase. Although staying on medications may decrease risk, there is no evidence to suggest that only patients who stop medications commit suicide.Cognitive Level: Apply (Application)Nursing Process: PlanningNCLEX: Safe and Effective Care EnvironmentText page: 228
Chapter 14: Depressive Disorders MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. A patient became severely depressed when the last of the family's 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."Our staff members care about you and want to try to help you get better." c."It is difficult for others to care about you when you repeatedly say the same negative things." d."I'll sit with you for 10 minutes now and 10 minutes after lunch to help you feel that I care about you."
D Spending time with the patient at intervals throughout the day shows acceptance by the nurse and will help the patient establish a relationship with the nurse. The therapeutic technique is "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 trust building. The incorrect responses would be difficult for a person with profound depression to believe, provide false reassurance, and are counterproductive. The patient is unable to say positive things at this point. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 24. A disheveled patient with severe depression and psychomotor retardation has not showered for several days. The nurse will: a. bring up the issue at the community meeting. b. calmly tell the patient, "You must bathe daily." c. avoid forcing the issue in order to minimize stress. d. firmly and neutrally assist the patient with showering.
D When patients are unable to perform self-care activities, staff 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study/Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Which medication is FDA approved for treatment of anxiety in children? A. Lorazepam (benzodiazepine) B. Fluoxetine (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) C. Clomipramine (tricyclic antidepressant) D. None of the above
D. None of the above There are no medications with FDA approval for children with anxiety disorders; however, medications approved for other age groups are often prescribed. None of the other options are FDA approved to treat anxiety in children (see the previous sentence).
Which assessment data would help the health care team distinguish symptoms of conversion (functional neurological) disorder from symptoms of illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)? a. Voluntary control of symptoms b. Patient's style of presentation c. Results of diagnostic testing d. The role of secondary gains
B- patients style of presentation
An important question to ask during the assessment of a client diagnosed with anxiety disorder is: A. "How often do you hear voices?" B. "Have you ever considered suicide?" C. "How long has your memory been bad?" D. "Do your thoughts always seem jumbled?"
B. "Have you ever considered suicide?" The presence of anxiety may cause an individual to consider suicide as a means of finding comfort and peace. Suicide assessment is appropriate for any client with higher levels of anxiety.
What can be said about the comorbidity of anxiety disorders? A. Anxiety disorders generally exist alone. B. A second anxiety disorder may coexist with the first. C. Anxiety disorders virtually never coexist with mood disorders. D. Substance abuse disorders rarely coexist with anxiety disorders.
B. A second anxiety disorder may coexist with the first. In many instances, when one anxiety disorder is present, a second one coexists. Clinicians and researchers have clearly shown that anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with other psychiatric problems. Major depression often co-occurs and produces a greater impairment with poorer response to treatment.
Studies of clients diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder suggest that the stress response of which of the following is considered abnormal? A. Brainstem B. Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal system C. Frontal lobe D. Limbic system
B. Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal system Studies of clients with posttraumatic stress disorder suggest that the stress response of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal system is abnormal.
Jerry is a 72-year-old patient with Parkinson's disease and anxiety. He is living by himself and has had several falls lately. His provider orders lorazepam, 1 mg PO bid, for anxiety. You question this order because: A. Jerry may become addicted faster than younger patients. B. Jerry is at risk for falls. C. Jerry has a history of nonadherence with medications. D. Jerry should be treated with cognitive therapies rather than medication because of his advanced age.
B. Jerry is at risk for falls. An important nursing intervention is to monitor for side effects of the benzodiazepines, including sedation, ataxia, and decreased cognitive function. In a patient who has a history of falls, lorazepam would be contraindicated because it may cause sedation and ataxia leading to more falls. There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients become addicted faster than younger patients. A history of nonadherence would not lead to you to question this drug order. Medication and other therapies are used congruently with all age levels.
Which therapeutic intervention can the nurse implement personally to help a client diagnosed with a mild anxiety disorder regain control? A. Flooding B. Modeling C. Thought stopping D. Systematic desensitization
B. Modeling Modeling calm behavior in the face of anxiety or unafraid behavior in the presence of a feared stimulus are interventions that can be independently used. The other options require agreement of the treatment team.
The nurse is caring for a 35-year-old female patient who reports occasional panic attacks, fatigue, and amenorrhea. What can the nurse infer about this patient? The patient has acute stress. The patient has chronic stress. The patient has a normal response to stress. The patient has a fight-or-flight reaction to stress.
The patient has chronic stress.
A bipolar client whose continuing phase treatment consists of lithium therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy may become noncompliant with medication. Which factor would be of least concern to the nurse developing a psychoeducation plan to foster compliance? The side-effects are unpleasant. The voices tell the client to stop taking it. The client prefers to feel "high" and energetic. The client feels well and denies the possibility of recurrence.
The voices tell the client to stop taking it. Manic clients may hallucinate during the delirious state but generally do not hear voices. Psychoeducation would not be going on during the time the client is delirious.REF: Page 228
A patient scheduled for surgery seems to be anxious. The nurse teaches the patient to practice deep breathing exercises. What is the most appropriate reason for teaching deep breathing exercises to the patient? To help the patient prevent postoperative complications. To prevent preoperative risk of respiratory complications. To dampen the cognitive process involved in anxiety reactions. To promote lung expansion during administration of anesthesia.
To dampen the cognitive process involved in anxiety reactions.
Which behavior would be characteristic of an individual who is displacing anger? A. Lying B. Stealing C. Slapping D. Procrastinating
D. Procrastinating A passive-aggressive person deals with emotional conflict by indirectly and unassertively expressing aggression toward others. Procrastination is an expression of resistance.
Which nursing intervention would be helpful when caring for a client diagnosed with an anxiety disorder? A. Express mild amusement over symptoms. B. Arrange for client to spend time away from others. C. Advise client to minimize exercise to conserve endorphins. D. Reinforce use of positive self-talk to change negative assumptions.
D. Reinforce use of positive self-talk to change negative assumptions. This technique is a variant of cognitive restructuring. "I can't do that" is changed to "I can do it if I try."
An obsession is defined as: A. thinking of an action and immediately taking the action. B. a recurrent, persistent thought or impulse. C. an intense irrational fear of an object or situation. D. a recurrent behavior performed in the same manner.
B. a recurrent, persistent thought or impulse. Obsessions are thoughts, impulses, or images that persist and recur so that they cannot be dismissed from the mind.
The nurse anticipates that the nursing history of a client diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) will reveal: A. a history of childhood trauma. B. a sibling with the disorder. C. an eating disorder. D. a phobia as well.
B. a sibling with the disorder. Research shows that first-degree biological relatives of those with OCD have a higher frequency of the disorder than exists in the general population.
Stella brings her mother, Dorothy, to the mental health outpatient clinic. Dorothy has a history of anxiety. Stella and Dorothy both give information for the assessment interview. Stella states, "My mother lives with me since my dad died 6 months ago. For the past couple of months, every time I need to leave the house for work or anything else, Mom becomes extremely anxious and cries that something terrible is going to happen to me. She seems OK except for these times, but it's affecting my ability to go to work." You suspect: A. panic disorder. B. adult separation anxiety disorder. C. agoraphobia. D. social anxiety disorder.
B. adult separation anxiety disorder. People with separation anxiety disorder exhibit developmentally inappropriate levels of concern over being away from a significant other. There may also be fear that something horrible will happen to the other person. Adult separation anxiety disorder may begin in childhood or adulthood. The scenario doesn't describe panic disorder. Agoraphobia is characterized by intense, excessive anxiety or fear about being in places or situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing or in which help might not be available. Social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, is characterized by severe anxiety or fear provoked by exposure to a social or a performance situation that will be evaluated negatively by others.
The defense mechanisms that can only be used in healthy ways include: A. suppression and humor. B. altruism and sublimation. C. idealization and splitting. D. reaction formation and denial.
B. altruism and sublimation. Altruism and sublimation are known as mature defenses. They cannot be used in unhealthy ways. Altruism results in resolving emotional conflicts by meeting the needs of others, and sublimation substitutes socially acceptable activity for unacceptable impulses.
The initial nursing action for a newly admitted anxious client is to: A. assess the client's use of defense mechanisms. B. assess the client's level of anxiety. C. limit environmental stimuli. D. provide antianxiety medication.
B. assess the client's level of anxiety. The priority nursing action is the assessment of the client's anxiety level.
It can be said that the onset of most anxiety disorders occurs: A. before the age of 20 years. B. before the age of 40 years. C. after the age of 40 years. D. scattered throughout the life span.
B. before the age of 40 years. Epidemiology reports indicate that the onset of most anxiety disorders occurs before age 40 years.
A client is diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The nursing assessment supports this diagnosis when the client reports: A. that his symptoms started right after he was robbed at gunpoint. B. being so worried he hasn't been able to work for the last 12 months. C. that eating in public makes him extremely uncomfortable. D. repeatedly verbalizing his prayers helps him feel relaxed.
B. being so worried he hasn't been able to work for the last 12 months. GAD is characterized by symptomatology that lasts 6 months or longer.
A man continues to speak of his wife as though she were still alive, 3 years after her death. This behavior suggests the use of: A. altruism. B. denial. C. undoing. D. suppression.
B. denial. Denial involves escaping unpleasant reality by ignoring its existence.
Selective inattention is first noted when experiencing anxiety that is: A. mild. B. moderate. C. severe. D. panic.
B. moderate. When moderate anxiety is present, the individual's perceptual field is reduced and the client is not able to see the entire picture of events.
A teenager changes study habits to earn better grades after initially failing a test. This behavioral change is likely a result of: A. a rude awakening. B. normal anxiety. C. trait anxiety. D. altruism.
B. normal anxiety. Normal anxiety is a healthy life force needed to carry out the tasks of living and striving toward goals. It prompts constructive actions.
A 20-year-old was sexually molested at age 10, but he can no longer remember the incident. The ego defense mechanism in use is: A. projection. B. repression. C. displacement. D. reaction formation.
B. repression. Repression is a defense mechanism that excludes unwanted or unpleasant experiences, emotions, or ideas from conscious awareness.
A patient diagnosed with hypertension uses an automatic cycling blood pressure cuff with audible changing tones. The patient uses relaxation techniques to lower blood pressure and is informed of ongoing success by the tone. This process describes Biofeedback Guided imagery Therapeutic touch Assertiveness training
Biofeedback
Which approach to reducing patient stress is most effective in people with low to moderate hypnotic ability? Meditation Biofeedback Journal keeping Breathing exercises
Biofeedback
A nurse advises a stressed patient to perform meditation to decrease stress levels. How does meditation help in relieving stress? By creating a hypometabolic state of quieting the sympathetic nervous system. By allowing switching from the sympathetic mode to the parasympathetic mode. By dampening the cognitive processes likely to induce stress and anxiety reactions. By eliminating muscle contraction and decreasing the related anxiety levels.
By creating a hypometabolic state of quieting the sympathetic nervous system. Meditation helps to elicit relaxation by creating a hypometabolic state of quieting the sympathetic nervous system. A decreased activation of the sympathetic nervous system reduces the stress responses and promotes relaxation. A relaxation response allows switching from the sympathetic mode to the parasympathetic mode. Techniques like deep breathing exercises help to dampen the cognitive processes likely to induce stress and anxiety reactions. Progressive muscle relaxation helps to eliminate muscle contraction and decrease the related anxiety levels. p. 166
Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment 6. When counseling patients diagnosed with major depression, 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 between nerve cells in the brain and that it is at least as effective as medication. Evidence is not present to support superior outcomes for the other psychotherapeutic modalities mentioned. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
The nurse caring for a client experiencing a panic attack anticipates that the psychiatrist would order a stat dose of: A. standard antipsychotic medication. B. tricyclic antidepressant medication. C. anticholinergic medication. D. a short-acting benzodiazepine medication.
D. a short-acting benzodiazepine medication. A short-acting benzodiazepine is the only type of medication listed that would lessen the client's symptoms of anxiety within a few minutes. Anticholinergics do not lower anxiety; tricyclic antidepressants have very little antianxiety effect and have a slow onset of action; and a standard antipsychotic medication will lower anxiety but has a slower onset of action and the potential for more side effects.
Working to help the client view an occurrence in a more positive light is called: A. flooding. B. desensitization. C. response prevention. D. cognitive restructuring.
D. cognitive restructuring. The purpose of cognitive restructuring is to change the individual's negative view of an event or a situation to a view that remains consistent with the facts but that is more positive.
The primary purpose of performing a physical examination before beginning treatment for any anxiety disorder is to: A. protect the nurse legally. B. establish the nursing diagnoses of priority. C. obtain information about the client's psychosocial background. D. determine whether the anxiety is primary or secondary in origin.
D. determine whether the anxiety is primary or secondary in origin. The symptoms of anxiety can be caused by a number of physical disorders or are said to be caused by an underlying physical disorder. The treatment for secondary anxiety is treatment of the underlying cause.
A symptom commonly associated with panic attacks is: A. obsessions. B. apathy. C. fever. D. fear of impending doom.
D. fear of impending doom. The feelings of terror present during a panic attack are so severe that normal function is suspended, the perceptual field is severely limited, and misinterpretation of reality may occur.
The major distinction between fear and anxiety is that fear: A. is a universal experience; anxiety is neurotic. B. enables constructive action; anxiety is dysfunctional. C. is a psychological experience; anxiety is a physiological experience. D. is a response to a specific danger; anxiety is a response to an unknown danger.
D. is a response to a specific danger; anxiety is a response to an unknown danger. Fear is a response to an objective danger; anxiety is a response to a subjective danger.
You are providing teaching to Lana, a preoperative patient just before surgery. She is becoming more and more anxious as you talk. She begins to complain of dizziness and heart pounding, and she is trembling. She seems confused. Your best response is to: A. reinforce the preoperative teaching by restating it slowly. B. have Lana read the teaching materials instead of verbal instruction. C. have a family member read the preoperative materials to Lana. D. not attempt any teaching at this time.
D. not attempt any teaching at this time. Patients experiencing severe anxiety, as the symptoms suggest, are unable to learn or solve problems. The other options would not be effective because you are still attempting to teach someone who has a severe level of anxiety.
Delusionary thinking is a characteristic of: A. chronic anxiety. B. acute anxiety. C. severe anxiety. D. panic level anxiety.
D. panic level anxiety. Panic level anxiety is the most extreme level and results in markedly disturbed thinking.
A client is running from chair to chair in the solarium. He is wide-eyed and keeps repeating, "They are coming! They are coming!" He neither follows staff direction nor responds to verbal efforts to calm him. The level of anxiety can be assessed as: A. mild. B. moderate. C. severe. D. panic.
D. panic. Panic-level anxiety results in markedly disorganized, disturbed behavior, including confusion, shouting, and hallucinating. Individuals may be unable to follow directions and may need external limits to ensure safety.
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 8. A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking a tricyclic antidepressant 1 week ago. Today 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 will: a. limit the patient's activities to those that can be performed in a sitting position. b. withhold the drug, force oral fluids, and notify the health care provider. c. teach the patient strategies to manage postural hypotension. d. update the patient's mental status examination.
C 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 this information may convince the patient to continue the medication. Activity is an important aspect of the patient's treatment plan and should not be limited to activities that can be done in a sitting position. Withholding the drug, forcing oral fluids, and notifying the health care provider are unnecessary actions. Independent nursing action is called for. Updating a mental status examination is unnecessary. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 269 (Box 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Health Promotion and Maintenance 25. A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago. The patient 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 increase the dose. 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 symptoms of improvement.
C Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. One to three weeks of treatment is usually necessary before symptom relief occurs. This information is important to share with patients. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266 (Table 14-6) | Page 268 (Box 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 27. A patient diagnosed with major depression received six electroconvulsive therapy sessions and aggressive doses of antidepressant medication. 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. Antidepressant medications alter catecholamine levels, which impairs decision-making abilities. b. Antidepressant medications may cause confusion related to limitation of tyramine in the diet. c. Temporary memory impairments and confusion may occur with electroconvulsive therapy. d. The patient needs time to readjust to a pressured work schedule.
C Recent memory impairment and/or confusion is often present during and for a short time after electroconvulsive therapy. An inappropriate business decision might be made because of forgotten important details. The rationales are untrue statements in the incorrect responses. The patient needing time to reorient to a pressured work schedule is less relevant than the correct rationale. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 12. A patient diagnosed with depression begins selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant therapy. The nurse should provide information to the patient and family about: a. restricting sodium intake to 1 gram daily. b. minimizing exposure to bright sunlight. c. reporting increased suicidal thoughts. d. maintaining a tyramine-free diet.
C 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 268 (Box 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Tyler is being discharged home to his family. Which of the following is important teaching to include for the patient and the family to recognize possible signs of impending mania? Increased appetite Decreased social interaction Increased attention to bodily functions Decreased sleep
Decreased sleep Changes in sleep patterns are especially important because they usually precede mania. Even a single night of unexplainable sleep loss can be taken as an early warning of impending mania. The other options do not indicate impending mania.Cognitive Level: Apply (Application)Nursing Process: ImplementationNCLEX: Physiological IntegrityText page: 245
An effective stress-reduction technique a nurse might teach an individual with performance anxiety is Assertiveness Journal keeping Deep breathing Restructuring and setting priorities
Deep breathing
What is the psychological state that results in anxiety, depression, confusion, helplessness, hopelessness, and fatigue? Distress Eustress Fight-or-flight response General adaption syndrome
Distress Distress is the result of a negative perception toward a stressor such as a death in the family, financial overload, and school or work demands. Eustress is a positive, beneficial energy that motivates and results in feelings of happiness, hopefulness, and purposeful movement. Fight-or-flight response is a pathway of the response to stress. General adaption syndrome is a theory that shows that different types of stressors bring about different patterns of responses and that it is the degree of stress that is important. p. 159
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 18. A patient being treated for depression 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 will advise the patient to: a."Go to the nearest emergency department immediately." b."Do not to be alarmed. Take two aspirin and drink plenty of fluids." c."Take a dose of your antidepressant now and come to the clinic to see the health care provider." d."Resume taking your antidepressants for 2 more weeks and then discontinue them 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 16. Major depression resulted after a patient's employment was terminated. The patient now says to the nurse, "I'm not worth the time you spend with me. I am 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 lead to other diagnoses. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 250-251 | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 259 TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis
Which assessment question focuses on determining the resilience of a preteen child? Select all that apply. "Do you like playing video games?" "How do you and your friends have fun?" "How are you adjusting to your new school?" "What would you do if you forgot your homework?" "What job would you like when you grow up?"
"How do you and your friends have fun?" "How are you adjusting to your new school?" "What would you do if you forgot your homework?" "What job would you like when you grow up?"
A manic client tells a nurse "Bud. Crud. Dud. I'm a real stud! You'd like what I have to offer. Let's go to my room." The best approach for the nurse to use would be "What an offensive thing to suggest!" "I don't have sex with clients." "It's time to work on your art project." "Let's walk down to the seclusion room."
"It's time to work on your art project." Distractibility works as the nurse's friend. Rather than discuss the invitation, the nurse may be more effective by redirecting the client.REF: Page 234-235
The nurse teaches a patient with anxiety about stress and triggers. Which statement made by the patient indicates the teaching was effective? "Stress is a negative response." "Eustress is resistance to stress." "People can have good and bad stress." "People with stress are always in distress."
"People can have good and bad stress."
During a home visit, the nurse finds that an adolescent is upset after failing a midterm exam at school. What positive statement does the nurse use to comfort the adolescent? "Do you feel like you should have studied more?" "You should not be upset for such a small reason." "This probably just isn't your best subject, and you should focus on your stronger subjects." "You can learn from this experience and refocus your attention to improve your future performance."
"You can learn from this experience and refocus your attention to improve your future performance."
When discussing the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the nurse correctly states: 1. "The symptoms can occur almost immediately or can take years to manifest." 2. "PTSD causes agitation and hypervigilance, but rarely chronic depression." 3. "PTSD is an emotional response that does not cause significant changes in brain chemistry." 4. "When experiencing a flashback, the patient generally experiences a slowing of responses."
1. "The symptoms can occur almost immediately or can take years to manifest."
When a toddler's mother is hospitalized for several months, the nursing diagnosis risk for impaired parent/child attachment is related to prolonged separation, which has been included in the child's plan of care. The most appropriate outcome would be that: 1. Mother and child show signs of healthy bonding 2. The father is able to assume the mother's role in her absence 3. The mother is discharged and returned home as soon as possible 4. The child is able to transfer nurturing needs to another available adult
1. Mother and child show signs of healthy bonding
Which behavior best supports the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a 4-year-old child? 1. Overeating 2. Hypervigilance 3. A drive to be perfect 4. Passivity
2. Hypervigilance
A child who is able to regain mental stability after a traumatic event is said to be: 1. Mature. 2. Resilient. 3. Autonomous. 4. Independent.
2. Resilient.
Which statement concerning syndromes seen in other cultures, such as piblokto, Navajo frenzy witchcraft, and amok, is true? 1. They are physical disorders, not mental disorders. 2. They are culture-bound syndromes that are not dissociative disorders. 3. They are dissociative disorders, such as dissociative identity disorders. 4. They are myths or rumors, because they have not been sufficiently studied to be classified as real.
2. They are culture-bound syndromes that are not dissociative disorders.
A man was killed during a robbery 10 days ago. His widow, who has a long history of mental illness, cries spontaneously when talking to the nurse about her loss. What is the nurse's most therapeutic response? 1. "This loss is harder to accept because you have mental illness. Try to focus on other activities." 2. "I'm concerned that you are crying so much. Your grief over your husband's death has gone on too long." 3. "The sudden death of your husband is hard to accept. I am glad you are able to tell me about how you are feeling." 4. "Your tears let me know you are not coping appropriately with your loss. Let's make an appointment with your health care provider."
3. "The sudden death of your husband is hard to accept. I am glad you are able to tell me about how you are feeling."
Which child is at greatest risk for developing attachment problems as a result of a neurobiological development? 1. A 7-year-old male 2. A 13-year-old male 3. A 4-year-old female 4. A 10-year-old female
3. A 4-year-old female
According to attachment theory, relationship disorders are related to trauma associated with: 1. Culture or religion 2. Siblings or strangers 3. Caregivers or parents 4. Insufficient food or shelter
3. Caregivers or parents
Parents express concern when their 5-year-old child, who is receiving treatment for cancer, keeps referring to an imaginary friend, Candy. The nurse explains that: 1. Children this age usually have imaginary friends 2. The child needs more of their one-on-one attention 3. The imaginary friend is a coping mechanism the child is using 4. It is nothing to worry about unless the child starts to isolate socially
3. The imaginary friend is a coping mechanism the child is using
A nurse conducts an initial interview with a veteran of two tours in the war with Afghanistan. The veteran says, "Sometimes I still hear explosions but I know I am safe in my home." What is the nurse's best response? 1. "Your description of flashbacks commonly is associated with acute stress disorder. You need to have additional treatment." 2. "Exposure to intermittent explosive devices often damages a person's ears. Let's arrange for some tests of your hearing and balance." 3. "Your experience in the war ended over two years ago. It is time for you to recognize that experience is over and you should move on with your life." 4. "You are describing flashbacks. These often happen after traumatic events such as war. I'd like to arrange for you to talk more about your feelings and reactions."
4. "You are describing flashbacks. These often happen after traumatic events such as war. I'd like to arrange for you to talk more about your feelings and reactions."
A patient says to the nurse, "Sometimes I feel like I'm floating above my body, watching it from the outside." When documenting this observation, which term applies? 1. Fugue 2. Amnesia 3. Derealization 4. Depersonalization
4. Depersonalization
Which statement about dissociative disorders is true? 1. Dissociative symptoms are always negative. 2. Dissociative symptoms are usually a cry for attention. 3. Dissociative symptoms are under the person's conscious control. 4. Dissociative symptoms are not under the person's conscious control.
4. Dissociative symptoms are not under the person's conscious control.
Empathetic listening is therapeutic because it focuses on: 1. Reducing anxiety 2. Encouraging resilience 3. Enhancing self-esteem 4. Lessening feelings of isolation
4. Lessening feelings of isolation
Dissociative identity disorder is characterized by: 1. The inability to recall important information 2. Recurring feelings of detachment from one's body or mental processes 3. Sudden, unexpected travel away from home and inability to remember the past 4. The existence of two or more subpersonalities, each with its own patterns of thinking
4. The existence of two or more subpersonalities, each with its own patterns of thinking
Which statement about structural dissociation of the personality is true? 1. An organic basis exists for this type of disorder. 2. Nurses perceive patients with this disorder as easy to care for. 3. No known link exists between this disorder and early childhood loss or trauma. 4. This disorder results in a split in the personality, causing a lack of integration.
4. This disorder results in a split in the personality, causing a lack of integration.
A patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder shows little symptom improvement after being prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The nurse expects that the next medication to be prescribed will be a 1. Sedative 2. Barbiturate 3. Beta blocker 4. Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
4. Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA)
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 2. A patient became depressed after the last of the family's six children moved out of the home 4 months ago. Select the best 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.agree to take an 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Outcomes Identification
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 17. A patient diagnosed with major depression 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. Which communication technique will be effective? 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 for answers on the patient. 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 dialogue. Platitudes are never acceptable. They minimize patient feelings and can increase feelings of worthlessness. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 261-263 (Table 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
Client Needs: Physiological Integrity 19. Which documentation for a patient diagnosed with major depression indicates the treatment plan 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 with a group, and anticipating an event are all positive events. All the other options show at least one negative finding. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274-275 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 4. An adult diagnosed with major depression 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 c.Desensitization techniques b.Relaxation training classes d.Use of complementary therapy
A Social skill 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 development of a patient's support system. Use of complementary therapy refers to adjunctive therapies such as herbals, which would be less helpful than social skill training. Assertiveness would be of greater value than relaxation training because passivity was a concern. Desensitization is used in treatment of phobias. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 259 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 20. A patient was diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During which month would this patient's symptoms be most acute? a. January c. June b. April d. September
A The days are short in January, so the patient would have the least exposure to sunlight. Seasonal affective disorder is associated with disturbances in circadian rhythm. Days are longer in spring, summer, and fall. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
Which room placement would be best for a client experiencing a manic episode of bipolar disorder? A shared room with a client with dementia A single room near the unit activities area A single room near the nurses' station A shared room away from the unit entrance
A single room near the nurses' station The room placement that provides a nonstimulating environment is best. Nearness to the nurses' station means close supervision can be provided.REF: 244-245
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 3. A patient diagnosed with major depression 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 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. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257 | Page 260-261 (Table 14-2) | Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation
A 10-year-old child was placed in a foster home after being removed from parental contact because of abuse. The child has apprehension, tremulousness, and impaired concentration. The foster parent also reports the child has an upset stomach, urinates frequently, and does not understand what has happened. What helpful measures should the nurse suggest to the foster parents? The nurse should recommend: (select all that apply) a. conveying empathy and acknowledging the child's distress. b. explaining and reinforcing reality to avoid distortions. c. using a calm manner and low, comforting voice. d. avoiding repetition in what is said to the child. e. staying with the child until the anxiety decreases. f. minimizing opportunities for exercise and play.
A, B, C, E The childs symptoms and behavior suggest that he is exhibiting posttraumatic stress disorder. Interventions appropriate for this level of anxiety include using a calm, reassuring tone, acknowledging the childs distress, repeating content as needed when there is impaired cognitive processing and memory, providing opportunities for comforting and normalizing play and physical activities, correcting any distortion of reality, and staying with the child to increase his sense of security
The nurse interviewing a patient with suspected posttraumatic stress disorder should be alert to findings indicating the patient: (select all that apply) a. avoids people and places that arouse painful memories. b. experiences flashbacks or reexperiences the trauma. c. experiences symptoms suggestive of a heart attack. d. feels driven to repeat selected ritualistic behaviors. e. demonstrates hypervigilance or distrusts others. f. feels detached, estranged, or empty inside.
A, B, C, E, F These assessment findings are consistent with the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder. Ritualistic behaviors are expected in obsessive-compulsive disorder.
A young adult says, "I was sexually abused by my older brother. During those assaults, I went somewhere else in my mind. I don't remember the details. Now, I often feel numb or unreal in romantic relationships, so I just avoid them." Which disorders should the nurse suspect based on this history? Select all that apply. a. Acute stress disorder b. Depersonalization disorder c. Generalized anxiety disorder d. Posttraumatic stress disorder e. Reactive attachment disorder f. Disinhibited social engagement disorder
A, B, D Acute stress disorder, depersonalization disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder can involve dissociative elements, such as numbing, feeling unreal, and being amnesic for traumatic events. All three disorders are also responses to acute stress or trauma, which has occurred here. The distracters are disorders not evident in this patients presentation. Generalized anxiety disorder involves extensive worrying that is disproportionate to the stressors or foci of the worrying. Reactive attachment disorder and disinhibited social engagement disorder are problems of childhood.
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 2. A student nurse caring for a patient diagnosed with depression 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 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 diagnoses associated with feelings about self. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257-261 (Table 14-2) | Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis
Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity 4. A patient being treated with paroxetine (Paxil) 50 mg po daily for depression reports to the clinic nurse, "I took a few extra tablets earlier today and now I feel bad." Which assessments are most critical? Select all that apply. a. Vital signs b. Urinary frequency c. Psychomotor retardation 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. The patient may have urinary retention, but frequency would not be expected. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 265-268 (Box 14-2) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment
A client who is demonstrating a moderate level of anxiety tells the nurse, "I am so anxious, and I do not know what to do." A helpful response for the nurse to make would be: A. "What things have you done in the past that helped you feel more comfortable?" B. "Let's try to focus on that adorable little granddaughter of yours." C. "Why don't you sit down over there and work on that jigsaw puzzle?" D. "Try not to think about the feelings and sensations you're experiencing."
A. "What things have you done in the past that helped you feel more comfortable?" Because the client is not able to think through the problem and arrive at an action that would lower anxiety, the nurse can assist by asking what has worked in the past. Often what has been helpful in the past can be used again.
Which of the following describe the symptoms of the manic phase of bipolar disorder? (select all that apply): Excessive energy Fatigue and increased sleep Low self-esteem Pressured speech Purposeless movement Racing thoughts Withdrawal from environment Distractibility
Excessive energy Pressured speech Purposeless movement Racing thoughts Distractibility All these options describe mania. The other options more aptly describe the opposite of what happens in mania. Cognitive Level: Apply (Application)Nursing Process: AssessmentNCLEX: Psychosocial IntegrityText page: 228
A possible outcome criterion for a client diagnosed with anxiety disorder is: A. Client demonstrates effective coping strategies. B. Client reports reduced hallucinations. C. Client reports feelings of tension and fatigue. D. Client demonstrates persistent avoidance behaviors.
A. Client demonstrates effective coping strategies. Option A is the only desirable outcome listed.
Which side effects of lithium can be expected at therapeutic levels? Fine hand tremor and polyuria Nausea and thirst Coarse hand tremor and gastrointestinal upset Ataxia and hypotension
Fine hand tremor and polyuria The fact that fine hand tremor and polyuria are present at therapeutic levels is quite annoying to some clients. These and other side effects are factors in noncompliance.REF: Page 240 (Table 13-3)
Tyler's nursing care plan has several nursing diagnoses listed. List the nursing diagnosis to the level of priority (1 to 4): self-care deficient, bathing and hygiene deficient knowledge risk for injury non-adherence
First priority: Risk for injury Second priority: Self-care deficit, bathing and hygiene Third priority: Knowledge, deficient Fourth priority: Nonadherence
One effect of stress can be attributed to the stimulation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cortex, causing a short-term increase in Heart rate Triglycerides Gluconeogenesis Brain norepinephrine
Gluconeogenesis
Which behavior would be most characteristic of a client during a manic episode of bipolar disorder? Going rapidly from one activity to another Taking frequent rest periods and naps during the day Being unwilling to leave home to see other people Watching others intently and talking little
Going rapidly from one activity to another Hyperactivity and distractibility are basic to manic episodes.REF: 232-233
Which interventions will the nurse include in the plan of care of a patient diagnosed with generalized anxiety syndrome (GAS) resulting from stress? Select all that apply. Getting up 30 minutes later each morning. Going to sleep 30 minutes earlier than usual. Listening to soothing music to increase relaxation. Including 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine three days a week. Including some form of exercise about 30 minutes before going to bed.
Going to sleep 30 minutes earlier than usual. Listening to soothing music to increase relaxation. Including 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine three days a week.
Tyler is a 31-year-old patient admitted with acute mania. He tells the staff and the other patients that he is on a secret mission given to him by the President of the United States to monitor citizens for terrorist activity. He states, "I am the only one he trusts, because I am the best!" For documentation purposes you know that this behavior is referred to as: unpredictability. rapid cycling. grandiosity. flight of ideas.
Grandiosity
Generally, ego defense mechanisms: A. often involve some degree of self-deception. B. are rarely used by mentally healthy people. C. seldom make the person more comfortable. D. are usually effective in resolving conflicts.
A. often involve some degree of self-deception. Most ego defense mechanisms, with the exception of the mature defenses, alter the individual's perception of reality to produce varying degrees of self-deception.
Inability to leave one's home because of avoidance of severe anxiety suggests the anxiety disorder of: A. panic attacks with agoraphobia. B. obsessive-compulsive disorder. C. posttraumatic stress response. D. generalized anxiety disorder.
A. panic attacks with agoraphobia. Panic disorder with agoraphobia is characterized by recurrent panic attacks combined with agoraphobia. Agoraphobia involves intense, excessive anxiety about being in places or situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing or in which help might not be available if a panic attack occurred.
A potential problem for a client diagnosed with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder is: A. sleep disturbance. B. excessive socialization. C. command hallucinations. D. altered state of consciousness.
A. sleep disturbance. Clients who must engage in compulsive rituals for anxiety relief are rarely afforded relief for any prolonged period. The high anxiety level and need to perform the ritual may interfere with sleep.
A cultural characteristic that may be observed in a teenage, female Hispanic client in times of stress is to: A. suddenly tremble severely. B. exhibit stoic behavior. C. report both nausea and vomiting. D. laugh inappropriately.
A. suddenly tremble severely. Ataque de nervios (attack of the nerves) is a culture-bound syndrome that is seen in undereducated, disadvantaged females of Hispanic ethnicity.
A client is experiencing a panic attack. The nurse can be most therapeutic by: A. telling the client to take slow, deep breaths. B. verbalizing mild disapproval of the anxious behavior. C. asking the client what he means when he says "I am dying." D. offering an explanation about why the symptoms are occurring
A. telling the client to take slow, deep breaths. Slow diaphragmatic breathing can induce relaxation and reduce symptoms of anxiety. Often the nurse has to tell the client to "breathe with me" and keep the client focused on the task. The slower breathing also reduces the threat of hypercapnia with its attendant symptoms.
A nurse's neighbor says, "I saw a news story about a man without any known illness who died suddenly after his ex-wife committed suicide. Was that a coincidence, or can emotional shock be fatal?" The nurse should respond by noting that some serious medical conditions may be complicated by emotional stress, including: (select all that apply) a. cancer. b. hip fractures. c. hypertension. d. immune disorders. e. cardiovascular disease.
A< C, D, E
A nurse leads a psychoeducational group for patients experiencing depression. The nurse plans to implement an exercise regime for each patient. The rationale to use when presenting this plan to the treatment team is that exercise a. has an antidepressant effect comparable to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. b. prevents damage from overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. c. detoxifies the body by removing metabolic wastes and other toxins. d. improves mood stability for patients with bipolar disorders.
ANS: A -Endorphins produced during exercise result in improvement in mood and lowered anxiety. The other options are not accurate.
4. A patient says, "Please don't share information about me with the other people." How should the nurse respond? a. "I won't share information with your family or friends without your permission, but I will share information about you with other staff members." b. "A therapeutic relationship is just between the nurse and the patient. It's up to you to tell others what you want them to know." c. "It really depends on what you choose to tell me. I will be glad to disclose at the end of each session what I will report to others." d. "I cannot tell anyone about you. It will be as though I am talking about my own problems, and we can help each other by keeping it between us."
ANS: A A patient has the right to know with whom the nurse will share information and that confidentiality will be protected. Although the relationship is primarily between the nurse and patient, other staff members need to know pertinent data. The other incorrect responses promote incomplete disclosure on the part of the patient, require daily renegotiation of an issue that should be resolved as the nurse-patient contract is established, and suggest mutual problem solving. The relationship must be patient centered.
24. A community mental health nurse has worked with a patient for 3 years but is moving out of the city and terminates the relationship. A new nurse who begins work with this patient will: a. begin at the orientation phase. b. resume the working relationship. c. enter into a social relationship. d. return to the emotional catharsis phase.
ANS: A After the termination of a long-term relationship, the patient and new nurse usually have to begin at ground zero, the orientation phase, to build a new relationship. If termination is successfully completed, then the orientation phase sometimes progresses quickly to the working phase. Other times, even after successful termination, the orientation phase may be prolonged.
A patient diagnosed with acute mania has distributed pamphlets about a new business venture on a street corner for 2 days. Which nursing diagnosis has priority? a. Risk for injury
ANS: A Although each of the nursing diagnoses listed is appropriate for a patient having a manic episode, the priority lies with the patient's physiological safety. Hyperactivity and poor judgment put the patient at risk for injury.
17. A patient says, "I've done a lot of cheating and manipulating in my relationships." Select a nonjudgmental response by the nurse. a. "How do you feel about that?" b. "It's good that you realize this." c. "That's not a good way to behave." d. "Have you outgrown that type of behavior?"
ANS: A Asking a patient to reflect on feelings about his or her actions does not imply any judgment about those actions, and it encourages the patient to explore feelings and values. The remaining options offer negative judgments.
Four new patients were admitted to the behavioral health unit in the past 12 hours. The nurse directs a psychiatric technician to monitor these patients for safety. Which patient will need the most watchful supervision? A patient diagnosed with: a. bipolar I disorder
ANS: A Bipolar I is a mood disorder characterized by excessive activity and energy. Psychosis (hallucinations, delusions, and dramatically disturbed thoughts) may occur during manic episodes. A patient with bipolar I disorder is more unstable than a patient diagnosed with bipolar II, cyclothymic disorder, or dysthymic disorder.
Which comment by a patient who recently experienced a myocardial infarction indicates use of maladaptive, ineffective coping strategies? a. "My employer should have paid for a health club membership for me." b. "My family will see me through this. It won't be easy, but I will never be alone." c. "My heart attack was no fun, but it showed me up the importance of a good diet and more exercise." d. "I accept that I have heart disease. Now I need to decide if I will be able to continue my work daily."
ANS: A Blaming someone else and rationalizing one's failure to exercise are not adaptive coping strategies. Seeing the glass as half full, using social and religious supports, and confronting one's situation are seen as more effective strategies. The distracters demonstrate effective coping associated with a serious medical condition. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 326-327 | Page 331 | Page 334-335 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder will be discharged tomorrow. The patient is taking a mood stabilizing medication. What is the priority nursing intervention for the patient as well as the patient's family during this phase of treatment? a. Attending psychoeducation sessions
ANS: A 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, treatment focuses on maintaining medication compliance and preventing relapse, both of which are fostered by ongoing psychoeducation.
2. Which statement shows a nurse has empathy for a patient who made a suicide attempt? a. "You must have been very upset when you tried to hurt yourself." b. "It makes me sad to see you going through such a difficult experience." c. "If you tell me what is troubling you, I can help you solve your problems." d. "Suicide is a drastic solution to a problem that may not be such a serious matter."
ANS: A Empathy permits the nurse to see an event from the patient's perspective, understand the patient's feelings, and communicate this to the patient. The incorrect responses are nurse centered (focusing on the nurse's feelings rather than the patient's), belittling, and sympathetic.
The nurse receives a laboratory report indicating a patient's serum level is 1 mEq/L. The patient's last dose of lithium was 8 hours ago. This result is: a. within therapeutic limits.
ANS: A Normal range for a blood sample taken 8 to 12 hours after the last dose of lithium is 0.4 to 1 mEq/L.
A patient who had been experiencing significant stress learned to use progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises. When the patient returns to the clinic 2 weeks later, which finding most clearly shows the patient is coping more effectively with stress? a. The patient's systolic blood pressure has changed from the 140s to the 120s mm Hg. b. The patient reports, "I feel better, and that things are not bothering me as much." c. The patient reports, "I spend more time napping or sitting quietly at home." d. The patient's weight decreased by 3 pounds.
ANS: A Objective measures tend to be the most reliable means of gauging progress. In this case, the patient's elevated blood pressure, an indication of the body's physiological response to stress, has diminished. The patient's report regarding activity level is subjective; sitting quietly could reflect depression rather than improvement. Appetite, mood, and energy levels are also subjective reports that do not necessarily reflect physiological changes from stress and may not reflect improved coping with stress. The patient's weight change could be a positive or negative indicator; the blood pressure change is the best answer.
13. A nurse explains to the family of a patient who is mentally ill how the nurse-patient relationship differs from social relationships. Which is the best explanation? a. "The focus is on the patient. Problems are discussed by the nurse and patient, but solutions are implemented by the patient." b. "The focus shifts from nurse to patient as the relationship develops. Advice is given by both, and solutions are implemented." c. "The focus of the relationship is socialization. Mutual needs are met, and feelings are openly shared." d. "The focus is the creation of a partnership in which each member is concerned with the growth and satisfaction of the other."
ANS: A Only the correct response describes the elements of a therapeutic relationship. The remaining responses describe events that occur in social or intimate relationships.
A nurse assesses a patient diagnosed with conversion (functional neurological) 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."
ANS: A Patients with conversion (functional neurological) disorder demonstrate a lack of concern regarding the seriousness of symptoms. This lack of concern is termed "la belle indifférence." There is also a specific, identifiable cause for the development of the symptoms; in this instance, the death of a parent would precipitate stress. The distracters relate to sexual dysfunction and illness anxiety disorder. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which assessment question could a nurse ask to help identify secondary gains associated with a somatic symptom disorder? a. "What are you unable to do now but were previously able to do?" b. "How many doctors have you seen in the last year?" c. "Who do you talk to when you're upset?" d. "Did you experience abuse as a child?"
ANS: A Secondary gains should be assessed. Secondary gains reinforce maladaptive behavior. The patient's dependency needs may be evident through losses of abilities. When secondary gains are prominent, the patient is more resistant to giving up the symptom. There may be a history of abuse or doctor shopping, but the question does not assess the associated gains. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 329 | Page 331 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A health teaching plan for a patient taking lithium should include instructions to: a. maintain normal salt and fluids in the diet.
ANS: A Sodium depletion and dehydration increase the chance for development of lithium toxicity. The other options offer inappropriate information.
An outpatient diagnosed with bipolar disorder takes lithium carbonate 300 mg three times daily. The patient reports nausea. To reduce the nausea most effectively, the nurse suggests that the lithium be taken with: a. meals.
ANS: A Some patients find that taking lithium with meals diminishes nausea. The incorrect options are less helpful.
The exact cause of bipolar disorder has not been determined; however, for most patients: a. several factors, including genetics, are implicated.
ANS: A The best explanation at this time is that bipolar disorder is most likely caused by interplay of complex independent variables. Various theories implicate genetics, endocrine imbalance, environmental stressors, and neurotransmitter imbalances.
Which documentation indicates that the treatment plan for a patient diagnosed with acute mania has been effective? a. "Converses with few interruptions; clothing matches; participates in activities."
ANS: 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. Which initial approach should the nurse select? a. Distraction: "Let's go to the dining room for a snack."
ANS: A The distractibility characteristic of manic episodes can assist the nurse to direct the patient toward more appropriate, constructive activities without entering into power struggles. Humor usually backfires by either encouraging the patient or inciting anger. Limit setting and honest feed-back may seem heavy-handed and may incite anger.
22. As a nurse discharges a patient, the patient gives the nurse a card of appreciation made in an arts and crafts group. What is the nurse's best action? a. Recognize the effectiveness of the relationship and patient's thoughtfulness. Accept the card. b. Inform the patient that accepting gifts violates the policies of the facility. Decline the card. c. Acknowledge the patient's transition through the termination phase but decline the card. d. Accept the card and invite the patient to return to participate in other arts and crafts groups.
ANS: A The nurse must consider the meaning, timing, and value of the gift. In this instance, the nurse should accept the patient's expression of gratitude.
9. At what point in the nurse-patient relationship should a nurse plan to first address termination? a. In the orientation phase b. In the working phase c. In the termination phase d. When the patient initially brings up the topic
ANS: A The patient has a right to know the conditions of the nurse-patient relationship. If the relationship is to be time limited, then the patient should be informed of the number of sessions. If it is open ended, then the termination date will not be known at the outset and the patient will know that the issue will be negotiated at a later date. The nurse is responsible for bringing up the topic of termination early in the relationship, usually during the orientation phase.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is dressed in a red leotard and bright scarves. The patient twirls and shadow boxes. 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. Euphoric
ANS: A The patient has demonstrated clang associations and pleasant, happy behavior. Excessive happiness indicates euphoria. Irritability, belligerence, excessive happiness, and confidence are not the best terms for the patient's mood. Suspiciousness is not evident.
A patient who experienced a myocardial infarction was transferred from critical care to a step-down unit. The patient then used the call bell every 15 minutes for minor requests and complaints. Staff nurses reported feeling inadequate and unable to satisfy the patient's needs. When the nurse manager intervenes directly with this patient, which comment is most therapeutic? a. "I'm wondering if you are feeling anxious about your illness and being left alone." b. "The staff are concerned that you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving." c. "Let's talk about why you use your call light so frequently. It is a problem." d. "You frustrate the staff by calling them so often. Why are you doing that?"
ANS: A This patient is experiencing anxiety associated with a serious medical condition. Verbalization is an effective outlet for anxiety. "I'm wondering if you are anxious..." focuses on the emotions underlying the behavior rather than the behavior itself. This opening conveys the nurse's willingness to listen to the patient's feelings and an understanding of the commonly seen concern about not having a nurse always nearby as in the intensive care unit. The other options focus on the behavior or its impact on nursing and do not help the patient with her emotional needs. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 326-327 | Page 331-334 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
26. A nurse says, "I'm the only one who truly understands this patient. Other staff members are too critical." The nurse's statement indicates: a. boundary blurring. b. sexual harassment. c. positive regard. d. advocacy.
ANS: A When the role of the nurse and the role of the patient shift, boundary blurring may arise. In this situation, the nurse is becoming overinvolved with the patient as a probable result of unrecognized countertransference. When boundary issues occur, the need for supervision exists. The situation does not describe sexual harassment. Data are not present to suggest positive regard or advocacy.
A patient became depressed after the last of the family's six children moved out of the home 4 months ago. Select the best 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. agree to take an 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).
ANS: 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 259 | Page 261 (Table 14-2) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Outcomes Identification MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient diagnosed with major depression 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. Which communication technique will be effective? 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
ANS: 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 for answers on the patient. 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 dialogue. Platitudes are never acceptable. They minimize patient feelings and can increase feelings of worthlessness. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 261-263 (Table 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which documentation for a patient diagnosed with major depression indicates the treatment plan 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."
ANS: A Sleeping 6 hours, participating with a group, and anticipating an event are all positive events. All the other options show at least one negative finding. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 274-275 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
An adult diagnosed with major depression 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. Desensitization techniques c. Relaxation training classes d. Use of complementary therapy
ANS: A Social skill 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 development of a patient's support system. Use of complementary therapy refers to adjunctive therapies such as herbals, which would be less helpful than social skill training. Assertiveness would be of greater value than relaxation training because passivity was a concern. Desensitization is used in treatment of phobias. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 259 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient was diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During which month would this patient's symptoms be most acute? a. January b. June c. April d. September
ANS: A The days are short in January, so the patient would have the least exposure to sunlight. Seasonal affective disorder is associated with disturbances in circadian rhythm. Days are longer in spring, summer, and fall. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which presentations suggest the possibility of a factitious disorder, self-directed type? Select all that apply. a. History of multiple hospitalizations without findings of physical illness b. History of multiple medical procedures or exploratory surgeries c. Going from one doctor to another seeking the desired response d. Claims illness to obtain financial benefit or other incentive e. Difficulty describing symptoms
ANS: A, B Persons with factitious disorders, self-directed type, typically have a history of multiple hospitalizations and medical workups, with negative findings from workups. Sometimes they have even had multiple surgeries seeking the origin of the physical complaints. If they do not receive the desired response from a hospitalization, they may elope or accuse staff of incompetence. Such persons usually seek treatment through a consistent health care provider rather than doctor-shopping, are not motivated by financial gain or other external incentives, and present symptoms in a very detailed, plausible manner indicating considerable understanding of the disorder or presentation they are mimicking. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 337-338 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
2. A nurse ends a relationship with a patient. Which actions by the nurse should be included in the termination phase? Select all that apply. a. Focus dialogs with the patient on problems that may occur in the future. b. Help the patient express feelings about the relationship with the nurse. c. Help the patient prioritize and modify socially unacceptable behaviors. d. Reinforce expectations regarding the parameters of the relationship. e. Help the patient identify strengths, limitations, and problems.
ANS: A, B The correct actions are part of the termination phase. The other actions are used in the working and orientation phases.
A patient diagnosed with major depression 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 intake of processed foods.
ANS: 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. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257 | Page 260-261 (Table 14-2) | Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which changes reflect short-term physiological responses to stress? (Select all that apply.) a. Muscular tension, blood pressure, and triglycerides increase. b. Epinephrine is released, increasing heart and respiratory rates. c. Corticosteroid release increases stamina and impedes digestion. d. Cortisol is released, increasing glucogenesis and reducing fluid loss. e. Immune system functioning decreases, and risk of cancer increases. f. Risk of depression, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease increases.
ANS: A, B, C, D The correct answers are all short-term physiological responses to stress. Increased risk of immune system dysfunction, cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, and autoimmune disease are all long-term (chronic) effects of stress.
An individual says to the nurse, "I feel so stressed out lately. I think the stress is affecting my body also." Which somatic complaints are most likely to accompany this feeling? (Select all that apply.) a. Headache b. Neck pain c. Insomnia d. Anorexia e. Myopia
ANS: A, B, C, D When individuals feel "stressed-out," they often have accompanying somatic complaints, especially associated with sleep, eating, and headache or back pain. Changes in vision, such as myopia, would not be expected.
Which comments by a nurse are likely to help a patient cope by addressing the mediators of the stress response? (Select all that apply.) a. "A divorce, while stressful, can be the beginning of a new, better phase of life." b. "You mentioned your spirituality. Are there aspects of your faith that could be helpful to you at this time?" c. "Journaling often promotes awareness of how experiences have affected people." d. "It seems to me you are overreacting to this change in your life." e. "There is a support group for newly divorced persons in your neighborhood."
ANS: A, B, C, E Stress mediators are factors that can help persons cope by influencing how they perceive and respond to stressors; they include personality, social support, perceptions, and culture. Suggesting that a divorce may have positive as well as negative aspects helps the patient to alter perceptions of the stressor. Journaling increases self-awareness regarding how life experiences may have shaped how we perceive and respond to stress (or how our personality affects how we respond to stressors). A loan could help the patient by reducing the financial pressures. Participation in support groups is an excellent way to expand one's support network relative to specific issues. Many persons derive comfort and support from participation in faith-based interventions. The incorrect response demonstrates judging,
Which suggestions are appropriate for the family of a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is being treated as an outpatient during a hypomanic episode? Select all that apply. a. Limit credit card access. b. Provide a structured environment. e. Monitor the patient's sleep patterns.
ANS: A, B, E A patient with hypomania is expansive, grandiose, and labile; uses poor judgment; spends inappropriately; and is over-stimulated by a busy environment. Providing structure would help 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 will be necessary to limit stimuli and prevent problems associated with poor judgment and inappropriate decision making that accompany hypomania.
A nurse assesses a patient suspected of having somatic symptom disorder. Which assessment findings regarding this patient support the suspected diagnosis? Select all that apply. a. Female b. Reports frequent syncope c. Rates pain as "1" on a scale of "10" d. First diagnosed with psoriasis at age 12 e. Reports insomnia often results from back pain
ANS: A, B, E There is no chronic disease to explain the symptoms for patients with somatic symptom disorder. Patients report multiple symptoms; gastrointestinal and pseudoneurological symptoms are common. This disorder is more common in women than in men. Patients with conversion disorder would have a tendency to underrate pain. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient tells the nurse, "I'm ashamed of being bipolar. When I'm manic, my behavior embarrasses everyone. Even if I take my medication, there are no guarantees. I'm a burden to my family." These statements support which nursing diagnoses? Select all that apply. *a. Powerlessness* *c. Chronic low self-esteem* CHECK WITH EMAIL --b. Defensive coping --d. Impaired social interaction --e. Risk-prone health behavior
ANS: A, C Chronic low self-esteem and powerlessness are interwoven in the patient's statements. No data support the other diagnoses.
1. Which descriptors exemplify consistency regarding nurse-patient relationships? Select all that apply. a. Having the same nurse care for a patient on a daily basis b. Encouraging a patient to share initial impressions of staff c. Providing a schedule of daily activities to a patient d. Setting a time for regular sessions with a patient e. Offering solutions to a patient's problems
ANS: A, C, D Consistency implies predictability. Having the same nurse see the patient daily, providing a daily schedule of patient activities, and setting a regular time for sessions help a patient to predict what will happen during each day and to develop a greater degree of security and comfort. Encouraging a patient to share initial impressions of staff and giving advice are not related to consistency and would not be considered a therapeutic intervention.
A nurse's neighbor says, "I saw a news story about a man without any known illness who died suddenly after his ex-wife committed suicide. Was that a coincidence, or can emotional shock be fatal?" The nurse should respond by noting that some serious medical conditions may be complicated by emotional stress, including: (select all that apply) a. cancer. b. hip fractures. c. hypertension. d. immune disorders. e. cardiovascular disease.
ANS: A, C, D, E A number of diseases can be worsened or brought to awareness by intense emotional stress. Immune disorders can be complicated associated with detrimental effects of stress on the immune system. Others can be brought about indirectly, such as cardiovascular disease due to acute or chronic hypertension. Hip fractures are not in this group. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 326-327 (Table 17-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A student nurse caring for a patient diagnosed with depression 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
ANS: A, C, D, F Vegetative signs of depression are alterations in 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 diagnoses associated with feelings about self. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 257-261 (Table 14-2) | Page 264 (Table 14-5) TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient being treated with paroxetine (Paxil) 50 mg po daily for depression reports to the clinic nurse, "I took a few extra tablets earlier today and now I feel bad." Which assessments are most critical? Select all that apply. a. Vital signs b. Urinary frequency c. Psychomotor retardation d. Presence of abdominal pain and diarrhea e. Hyperactivity or feelings of restlessness
ANS: 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. The patient may have urinary retention, but frequency would not be expected. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 265-268 (Box 14-2) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
3. A new psychiatric nurse has a parent with bipolar disorder. This nurse angrily recalls embarrassing events concerning the parent's behavior in the community. Select the best ways for this nurse to cope with these feelings. Select all that apply. a. Seek ways to use the understanding gained from childhood to help patients cope with their own illnesses. b. Recognize that these feelings are unhealthy, and try to suppress them when working with patients. c. Recognize that psychiatric nursing is not an appropriate career choice, and explore other nursing specialties. d. Begin new patient relationships by saying, "My own parent had mental illness, so I accept it without stigma." e. Recognize that the feelings may add sensitivity to the nurse's practice, but supervision is important.
ANS: A, E The nurse needs to explore these feelings. An experienced psychiatric nurse is a resource who may be helpful. The knowledge and experience gained from the nurse's relationship with a parent who is mentally ill may contribute sensitivity to a compassionate practice. Self-disclosure and suppression are not adaptive coping strategies. The nurse should not give up on this area of practice without first seeking ways to cope with the memories.
A patient diagnosed with a 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
ANS: A, E The patient's verbalization is consistent with spiritual distress. The patient's description of being unable to provide for and burdening the family indicates ineffective role performance. No data support diagnoses of adult failure to thrive, impaired social interaction, or decisional conflict. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 329-333 (Table 17-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
10. A nurse should introduce the matter of a contract during the first session with a new patient because contracts: a. specify what the nurse will do for the patient. b. spell out the participation and responsibilities of each party. c. indicate the feeling tone established between the participants. d. are binding and prevent either party from prematurely ending the relationship.
ANS: B A contract emphasizes that the nurse works with the patient rather than doing something for the patient. "Working with" is a process that suggests each party is expected to participate and share responsibility for the outcomes. Contracts do not, however, stipulate roles or feeling tone, or that premature termination is forbidden.
A patient experiencing acute mania dances around the unit, seldom sits, monopolizes conversations, interrupts, and intrudes. Which nursing intervention will best assist the patient with energy conservation? b. Provide a subdued environment.
ANS: 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 to balance activity and rest.
A patient diagnosed with major depression tells the nurse, "Bad things that happen are always my fault." Which response by the nurse will best assist the patient to reframe this overgeneralization? 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 extremely hard on yourself. Try to have a positive focus." d. "Are you saying that you don't have any good things happen?"
ANS: 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 cast doubt but do not require the patient to evaluate the statement. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
1. A nurse assesses a confused older adult. The nurse experiences sadness and reflects, "The patient is like one of my grandparents...so helpless." What feelings does the nurse describe? a. Transference b. Countertransference c. Catastrophic reaction d. Defensive coping reaction
ANS: B Countertransference is the nurse's transference or response to a patient that is based on the nurse's unconscious needs, conflicts, problems, or view of the world.
Which scenario best demonstrates an example of eustress? An individual a. loses a beloved family pet. b. prepares to take a vacation to a tropical island with a group of close friends. c. receives a bank notice that there were insufficient funds in his/her account for a recent rent payment. d. receives notification that his/her current employer is experiencing financial problems and some workers will be terminated.
ANS: B Eustress is beneficial stress; it motivates people to develop skills they need to solve problems and meet personal goals. Positive life experiences produce eustress. Going on a tropical vacation is an exciting, relaxing experience and is an example of eustress. Losing the family pet, worrying about employment security, and having financial problems are examples of distress, a negative experience that drains energy and can lead to significant emotional problems. See related audience response question.
The spouse of a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder asks what evidence supports the possibility of genetic transmission of bipolar disorders. Which response should the nurse provide? b. "A higher rate of relatives with bipolar disorder is found among patients with bi-polar disorder."
ANS: 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 and other factors involved in the etiology of bipolar disorder.
A patient tells the nurse, "I will never be happy until I'm as successful as my older sister." The nurse asks the patient to reassess this statement and reframe it. Which reframed statement by the patient is most likely to promote coping? a. "People should treat me as well as they treat my sister." b. "I can find contentment in succeeding at my own job level." c. "I won't be happy until I make as much money as my sister." d. "Being as smart or clever as my sister isn't really important."
ANS: B Finding contentment within one's own work, even when it does not involve success as others might define it, is likely to lead to a reduced sense of distress about achievement level. It speaks to finding satisfaction and happiness without measuring the self against another person. Focusing on salary is simply a more specific way of being as successful as the sister, which would not promote coping. Expecting others to treat her as they do her sister is beyond her control. Dismissing the sister's cleverness as unimportant indicates that the patient continues to feel inferior to the sibling.
14. A nurse wants to demonstrate genuineness with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The nurse should: a. restate what the patient says. b. use congruent communication strategies. c. use self-revelation in patient interactions. d. consistently interpret the patient's behaviors.
ANS: B Genuineness is a desirable characteristic involving an awareness of one's own feelings as they arise and the ability to communicate them when appropriate. The incorrect options are undesirable in a therapeutic relationship.
This nursing diagnosis applies to a patient with acute 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 an appropriate outcome. The patient will: b. drink six servings of a high-calorie, high-protein drink each day.
ANS: 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 ate or drank. The other indicator is unrelated to the nursing diagnosis.
A recent immigrant from Honduras comes to the clinic with a family member who has been a U.S. resident for 10 years. The family member says, "The immigration to America has been very difficult." Considering cultural background, which expression of stress by this patient would the nurse expect? a. Motor restlessness b. Somatic complaints c. Memory deficiencies d. Sensory perceptual alterations
ANS: B Honduras is in Central America. Many people from Central American cultures express distress in somatic terms. The other options are not specific to this patient's cultural background and are less likely to be observed in persons from Central America
A patient demonstrating characteristics of acute mania relapsed after discontinuing lithium. New orders are written to resume lithium twice daily and begin olanzapine (Zyprexa). What is the rationale for the addition of olanzapine to the medication regimen? It will: b. bring hyperactivity under rapid control.
ANS: 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 will be used for longterm control.
A patient experiencing significant stress associated with a disturbing new medical diagnosis asks the nurse, "Do you think saying a prayer would help?" Select the nurse's best answer. a. "It could be that prayer is your only hope." b. "You may find prayer gives comfort and lowers your stress." c. "I can help you feel calmer by teaching you meditation exercises." d. "We do not have evidence that prayer helps, but it wouldn't hurt."
ANS: B Many patients find that spiritual measures, including prayer, are helpful in mediating stress. Studies have shown that spiritual practices can enhance the sense of well-being. When a patient suggests a viable means of reducing stress, it should be supported by the nurse. Indicating that prayer is the patient's only hope is pessimistic and would cause further distress. Suggesting meditation or other alternatives to prayer implies that the nurse does not think prayer would be effective.
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 appropriate response. b. "Taking the medication every day helps reduce the risk of a relapse."
ANS: B Patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder may be maintained on lithium indefinitely to prevent recurrences. Helping the patient understand this need will promote medication compliance.
Which assessment data would help the health care team distinguish symptoms of conversion (functional neurological) disorder from symptoms of illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)? a.Voluntary control of symptoms b. Patient's style of presentation c. Results of diagnostic testing d. The role of secondary gains
ANS: B Patients with illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) tend to be more anxious about their concerns and display more obsessive attention to detail, whereas the patient with conversion (functional neurological) disorder often exhibits less concern with the symptom they are presenting than would be expected. Neither disorder involves voluntary control of the symptoms. Results of diagnostic testing for both would be negative (i.e., no physiological basis would be found for the symptoms). Secondary gains can occur in both disorders but are not necessary to either. See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-327 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient reports fears of having cervical cancer and says to the nurse, "I've had Pap smears by six different doctors. The results were normal, but I'm sure that's because of errors in the laboratory." Which disorder would the nurse suspect? a. Conversion (functional neurological) disorder b. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) c. Somatic symptom disorder d. Factitious disorder
ANS: B Patients with illness anxiety disorder have fears of serious medical problems, such as cancer or heart disease. These fears persist despite medical evaluations and interfere with daily functioning. There are no complaints of pain. There is no evidence of factitious or conversion disorder. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which nursing diagnosis would most likely apply to both a patient diagnosed with major depression as well as one experiencing acute mania? b. Disturbed sleep pattern
ANS: B Patients 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 with depression. Defensive coping is more relevant for patients with mania. Fluid volume excess is less relevant for patients with mood disorders than is deficient fluid volume.
A medical-surgical nurse works with a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder. Care planning is facilitated by understanding that the patient will probably: a.readily seek psychiatric counseling. b.be resistant to accepting psychiatric help. c. attend psychotherapy sessions without encouragement. d.be eager to discover the true reasons for physical symptoms
ANS: B Patients with somatic symptom disorders go from one health care provider to another trying to establish a physical cause for their symptoms. When a psychological basis is suggested and a referral for counseling offered, these patients reject both. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient has blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) disorder but is unconcerned about this problem. Which understanding should guide the nurse's planning for this patient? a.The patient is suppressing accurate feelings regarding the problem. b.The patient's anxiety is relieved through the physical symptom. c.The patient's optic nerve transmission has been impaired. d.The patient will not disclose genuine fears.
ANS: B Psychoanalytical theory suggests conversion reduces anxiety through production of a physical symptom symbolically linked to an underlying conflict. Conversion, not suppression, is the operative defense mechanism in this disorder. While some MRI studies suggest that patients with conversion disorder have an abnormal pattern of cerebral activation, there is no actual alternation of nerve transmission. The other distracters oversimplify the dynamics, suggesting that only dependency needs are of concern, or suggest conscious motivation (conversion operates unconsciously). See relationship to audience response question. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
patient says, "I know I have a brain tumor despite the results of the MRI. The radiologist is wrong. People who have brain tumors vomit, and yesterday I vomited all day." Which response by the nurse fosters cognitive reframing? a. "You do not have a brain tumor. The more you talk about it, the more it reinforces your belief." b. "Let's see if there are any other possible explanations for your vomiting." c. "You seem so worried. Let's talk about how you're feeling." d. "We need to talk about something else."
ANS: B Questioning the evidence is a cognitive reframing technique. Identifying causes other than the feared disease can be helpful in changing distorted perceptions. Distraction by changing the subject will not be effective. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 331-334 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
To best assure safety, the nurse's first intervention is to: b. clear the room of all other patients.
ANS: B Safety is of primary importance. Once other patients are out of the room, a plan for managing this patient can be implemented.
A patient 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 appropriate intervention. The nurse: b. invites the patient to sit together and look at new fashion magazines.
ANS: B Situations such as this offer an opportunity to use the patient's distractibility to staff's advantage. Patients become frustrated when staff 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 patient says, "One result of my chronic stress is that I feel so tired. I usually sleep from 11:00 PM to 6:30 AM. I started setting my alarm to give me an extra 30 minutes of sleep each morning, but I don't feel any better and I'm rushed for work." Which nursing response would best address the patient's concerns? a. "You may need to speak to your doctor about taking a sedative to help you sleep." b. "Perhaps going to bed a half-hour earlier would work better than sleeping later." testbanks_and_xanax c. "A glass of wine in the evening might take the edge off and help you to rest." d. "Exercising just before retiring for the night may help you to sleep better."
ANS: B Sleeping later in the morning may disturb circadian rhythms and in this case is adding, rather than reducing, stress. Going to bed earlier and arising at the usual time alleviates fatigue more effectively. Sedatives may offer some benefit but are a short-term intervention with potential side effects, and other nonpharmacological interventions might work as well or better. Exercise earlier in the evening could induce tiredness and ease the process of falling asleep, but doing so right before bedtime would stimulate and interfere with sleep. Alcohol is sedating but potentially addictive; encouraging its use could increase the risk of using alcohol maladaptively as a response to stress in general.
16. A nurse wants to enhance the growth of a patient by showing positive regard. The action consistent with this wish is: a. making rounds daily. b. staying with a tearful patient. c. administering daily medication as prescribed. d. examining personal feelings about a patient.
ANS: B Staying with a crying patient offers support and shows positive regard. Administering daily medication and making rounds are tasks that could be part of an assignment and do not necessarily reflect positive regard. Examining feelings regarding a patient addresses the nurse's ability to be therapeutic.
Outcome identification for the treatment plan of a patient experiencing grandiose thinking associated with acute mania will focus on: b. distorted thought self-control.
ANS: B 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.
7. What is the desirable outcome for the orientation stage of a nurse-patient relationship? The patient will demonstrate behaviors that indicate: a. great sense of independence. b. rapport and trust with the nurse. c. self-responsibility and autonomy. d. resolved transference.
ANS: B The development of rapport and trust is necessary before the relationship can progress to the working phase. Behaviors indicating a greater sense of independence, self-responsibility, and resolved transference occur in the working phase.
At a unit meeting, the staff discusses decor for a special room for patients with acute mania. Which suggestion is appropriate? b. Neutral walls with pale, simple accessories
ANS: B The environment for a manic patient should be as simple and non-stimulating as possible. Manic patients are highly sensitive to environmental distractions and stimulation.
25. As a patient with mental illness is being discharged from a facility, a nurse invites the patient to the annual staff picnic. What is the best analysis of this scenario? a. The invitation facilitates dependency on the nurse. b. The nurse's action blurs the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship. c. The invitation is therapeutic for the patient's diversional activity deficit. d. The nurse's action assists the patient's integration into community living.
ANS: B The invitation creates a social relationship rather than a therapeutic relationship.
A patient has blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) 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 self after explaining arrangement of the food on the tray. c. direct the patient to locate items on the tray independently and feed self. d.address needs of other patients in the dining room, then feed this patient.
ANS: B The patient is expected to maintain some level of independence by feeding self, while the nurse is supportive in a matter-of-fact way. The distracters support dependency or offer little support. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 335-336 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient with blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) disorder says, "All the doctors and nurses in the hospital stop by often to check on me. Too bad people outside the hospital don't find me as interesting." Which nursing diagnosis is most relevant? a. Social isolation b. Chronic low self-esteem c. Interrupted family processes d. Ineffective health maintenance
ANS: B The patient mentions that the symptoms make people more interested. This indicates that the patient feels 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 the scenario. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-326 TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient with a somatic symptom disorder has the nursing diagnosis Interrupted family processes related to patient's disabling symptoms as evidenced by 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 other family members. b. demonstrate performance of former roles and tasks. c. focus energy on problems occurring in the family. d. rely on family members to meet personal needs.
ANS: B The patient with a somatic symptom disorder has typically adopted a sick role in the family, characterized by dependence. Increasing independence and resumption of former roles are necessary to change this pattern. The distracters are inappropriate outcomes. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 325-326 | Page 338 (Nursing Care Plan 17-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Outcomes Identification MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Major depression resulted after a patient's employment was terminated. The patient now says to the nurse, "I'm not worth the time you spend with me. I am the most useless person in the world." Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Powerlessness b. Situational low self-esteem c. Defensive coping d. Disturbed personal identity
ANS: B 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 lead to other diagnoses. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 250-251 | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 259 TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
An outpatient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. The patient telephones the nurse to say, "I've had severe diarrhea for 4 days. I feel very weak and unsteady when I walk. My usual hand tremor has gotten worse. What should I do?" The nurse will advise the patient to: b. have someone bring the patient to the clinic immediately.
ANS: B The symptoms described suggest lithium toxicity. The patient should have a lithium level drawn and may require further treatment. Because neurological symptoms are present, the patient should not drive and should be accompanied by another person. The incorrect options will not ameliorate the patient's symptoms.
When a hyperactive patient diagnosed with acute mania is hospitalized, what is the initial nursing intervention? b. Set limits on patient behavior as necessary.
ANS: 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 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.
Which prescription medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed for a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder? a. Narcotic analgesics for use as needed for acute pain b. Antidepressant medications to treat underlying depression c. Long-term use of benzodiazepines to support coping with anxiety d. Conventional antipsychotic medications to correct cognitive distortions
ANS: B Various types of antidepressants may be helpful in somatic disorders directly by reducing depressive symptoms and hence somatic responses, but also indirectly by affecting nerve circuits that affect not only mood, but fatigue, pain perception, GI distress, and other somatic symptoms. Patients may benefit from short-term use of anti-anxiety medication (benzodiazepines) but require careful monitoring because of risks of dependence. Conventional antipsychotic medications would not be used, although selected atypical antipsychotics may be useful. Narcotic analgesics are not indicated. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 335-336 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient demonstrating behaviors associated with acute mania has exhausted the staff by noon. Staff members are feeling defensive and fatigued. Which action will the staff take initially? b. Hold a staff meeting to discuss consistency and limit-setting approaches.
ANS: B When staff members are at their wits' end, the patient has succeeded in keeping the environment unsettled and avoided outside controls on behavior. Staff meetings can help minimize staff split-ting and feelings of anger, helplessness, confusion, and frustration.
What action should the nurse take on learning that a manic client's serum lithium level is 1.8 mEq/L? Withhold medication and notify the physician. Continue to administer medication as ordered. Advise the client to limit fluids for 12 hours. Advise the client to curtail salt intake for 24 hours.
Withhold medication and notify the physician. The client's lithium level has exceeded desirable limits. Additional doses of the medication should be withheld and the physician notified.REF: Page 240-241
A patient nervously says, "Financial problems are stressing my marriage. I've heard rumors about cutbacks at work; I am afraid I might get laid off." The patient's pulse is 112/minute; respirations are 26/minute; and blood pressure is 166/88. Which nursing intervention will the nurse implement? a. Advise the patient, "Go to sleep 30 to 60 minutes earlier each night to increase rest." b. Direct the patient in slow and deep breathing using abdominal muscles. c. Suggest the patient consider that a new job might be better than the present one. d. Tell the patient, "Relax by spending more time playing with your pet."
ANS: B testbanks_and_xanax The patient is responding to stress with increased arousal of the sympathetic nervous system, as evident by elevated vital signs. These will have a negative effect on his health and increase his perception of being anxious and stressed. Stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system will counter the sympathetic nervous system's arousal, normalizing these vital sign changes and reducing the physiological demands stress is placing on his body. Other options do not address his physiological response pattern as directly or immediately.
A woman anticipating her wedding ceremony in a week comes to the Urgent Care Clinic with a headache that has been ongoing for three days duration as well as a pounding feeling in her chest. She is concerned that she may be having a stroke or a cerebral vascular accident (CVA). All medical tests are negative. The woman wonders what is happening to her because she feels she is unable to function. What is the best response to her question? You are having difficulty coping with your upcoming wedding. You are experiencing distress because of your upcoming wedding. You are experiencing eustress because of your upcoming wedding. You are being warned by your body that you may have hypertension.
You are having difficulty coping with your upcoming wedding.
The activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) contributes to a slowing of neural activity. Which of the following drugs facilitates the action of GABA? a) Benzodiazepines b) Antihistamines c) Anticonvulsants d) Noradrenergic
a) Benzodiazepines
Which patient has an increased risk for the development of anxiety and will require frequent assessment by the nurse? Select all that apply. a) Exacerbation of asthma signs and symptoms b)History of peanut and strawberry allergies c) History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease d) Current treatment for unstable angina pectoris e) History of a traumatic brain injury
a) Exacerbation of asthma signs and symptoms c) History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease d) Current treatment for unstable angina pectoris e) History of a traumatic brain injury
In a parent teacher conference, the school nurse meets with the parents of a profoundly shy 8-year-old girl. The parents hold hands, speak softly, respond briefly, and have poor eye contact. The nurse recognizes that the child is most likely exposed to parental modeling and: a) The inherited shyness trait b) A lack of affection in the home c) Severe punishment by the parents d) Is afraid to say something foolish
a) The inherited shyness trait
Priority interventions for a patient diagnosed with major depression and feelings of worthlessness should include: a. distracting the patient from self-absorption. b. careful unobtrusive observation around the clock. c. allowing the patient to spend long periods alone in meditation. d. opportunities to assume a leadership role in the therapeutic milieu.
ANS: B Approximately two-thirds of people with depression contemplate suicide. Patients with depression who exhibit feelings of worthlessness are at higher risk. Regular planned observations of the patient diagnosed with depression may prevent a suicide attempt on the unit. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 263 (Table 14-3) | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment
Stress can be attributed to stimulation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cortex, and over the long term it can result in a. Insulin resistance b. Digestive problems c. Chronic muscle tension d. A high resting heart rate
a. Insulin resistance and obesity are considered long-term sequelae of the high blood glucose levels incurred when the body responds to stress. pp. 158, 160, Figure 10.2, Table 10.1
Self-help groups are useful for reducing stress because they provide the individual with the stress mediator identified as a. Social support b. Cultural support c. Life satisfaction d. Cognitive reframing
a. Self-help groups often provide a high level of social support. Members meet and are encouraged and sustained by others who share the same problem. p. 161
What is the focus of priority nursing interventions for the period immediately after electroconvulsive therapy treatment? a. Nutrition and hydration b. Supporting physiological stability c. Reducing disorientation and confusion d. Assisting the patient to identify and test negative thoughts
ANS: B During the immediate post-treatment period, the patient is recovering from general anesthesia; hence, the priority need is to establish and support physiological stability. 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A nurse taught a patient about a tyramine-restricted diet. Which menu selection would the nurse approve? a. Macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, banana bread, caffeinated coffee b. Mashed potatoes, ground beef patty, corn, green beans, apple pie c. Avocado salad, ham, creamed potatoes, asparagus, chocolate cake d. Noodles with cheddar cheese sauce, smoked sausage, lettuce salad, yeast rolls
ANS: B The correct answer describes a meal that contains little tyramine. Vegetables and fruits contain little or no tyramine. Fresh ground beef and apple pie are safe. The other meals contain various amounts of tyramine-rich foods or foods that contain vasopressors: avocados, ripe bananas (banana bread), sausages/hot dogs, smoked meat (ham), cheddar cheese, yeast, caffeine drinks, and chocolate. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14?6) | Page 268-269 (Table 14-7) TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TCM) is scheduled for a patient diagnosed with major depression. Which comment by the patient indicates teaching about the procedure was effective? a. "They will put me to sleep during the procedure so I won't know what is happening." b. "I might be a little dizzy or have a mild headache after each procedure." c. "I will be unable to care for my children for about 2 months." d. "I will avoid eating foods that contain tyramine."
ANS: B Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TCM) treatments take about 30 minutes. Treatments are usually 5 days a week. Patients are awake and alert during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience a headache and lightheadedness. No neurological deficits or memory problems have been noted. The patient will be able to care for children. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 271-272 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
A nurse prepares the plan of care for a patient experiencing an acute manic episode. Which nursing diagnoses are most likely? Select all that apply. b. Disturbed thought processes c. Sleep deprivation
ANS: B, C People with mania are hyperactive and often do not take time to eat and drink properly. Their high levels of activity consume calories, so deficits in nutrition may occur. Sleep is reduced. Their socialization is impaired but not isolated. Confusion may be acute but not chronic.
4. A new nurse tells a mentor, "I want to convey to my patients that I am interested in them and that I want to listen to what they have to say." Which behaviors are helpful in meeting the nurse's goal? Select all that apply. a. Sitting behind a desk, facing the patient. b. Introducing self to a patient and identifying own role. c. Using facial expressions that convey interest and encouragement. d. Assuming an open body posture and sometimes mirror imaging. e. Maintaining control of the topic under discussion by asking direct questions.
ANS: B, C, D Trust is fostered when the nurse gives an introduction and identifies his or her role. Facial expressions that convey interest and encouragement support the nurse's verbal statements to that effect and strengthen the message. An open body posture conveys openness to listening to what the patient has to say. Mirror imaging enhances patient comfort. A desk would place a physical barrier between the nurse and patient. A face-to-face stance should be avoided when possible, and a less intense 90- or 120-degree angle is used to permit either party to look away without discomfort. Once introductions have been made, the nurse focuses the interview on the patient by using open-ended questions such as, "Where should we start?"
The nurse wishes to use guided imagery to help a patient relax. Which comments would be appropriate to include in the guided imagery script? (Select all that apply.) a. "Imagine others treating you the way they should, the way you want to be treated ..." b. "With each breath, you feel calmer, more relaxed, almost as if you are floating ..." c. "You are alone on a beach, the sun is warm, and you hear only the sound of the surf ..." d. "You have taken control, nothing can hurt you now. Everything is going your way ..." e. "You have grown calm, your mind is still, there is nothing to disturb your well-being ..." f. "You will feel better as work calms down, as your boss becomes more understanding ..."
ANS: B, C, E The intent of guided imagery to assist patients manage stress is to lead the patient to envision images that are calming and health-enhancing. Statements that involve the patient calming progressively with breathing, feeling increasingly relaxed, being in a calm and pleasant location, being away from stressors, and having a peaceful and calm mind are therapeutic and should be included in the script. However, items that raise stressful images or memories or that involve unrealistic expectations or elements beyond the patient's control (e.g., that others will treat the patient as he desires, that everything is going the patient's way, that bosses are understanding) interfere with relaxation and/or do not promote effective coping. Thus these are not health-promoting and should not be included in the script.
Which assessment finding best supports dissociative 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. "I cannot recall why I'm living in this town." The patient in a fugue state frequently relocates and assumes a new identity while not recalling previous identity or places previously inhabited. The distracters are more consistent with depersonalization disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or dissociative identity disorder. See relationship to audience response question.
A child has a history of multiple hospitalizations for recurrent systemic infections. The child is not improving in the hospital, despite aggressive treatment. Factitious disorder by proxy is suspected. Which nursing interventions are appropriate? Select all that apply. a. Increase private visiting time for the parents to improve bonding. b. Keep careful, detailed records of visitation and untoward events. c. Place mittens on the child to reduce access to ports and incisions. d. Encourage family members to visit in groups of two or three. e. Interact with the patient frequently during visiting hours.
ANS: B, D, E Factitious disorder by proxy is a rare condition wherein a person intentionally causes or perpetuates the illness of a loved one (e.g., by periodically contaminating IV solutions with fecal material). When this disorder is suspected, the child's life could be at risk. Depending on the evidence supporting this suspicion, interventions could range from minimizing unsupervised visitation to blocking visitation altogether. Frequently checking on the child during visitation and minimizing unobserved access to the child (by encouraging small group visits) reduces the opportunity to take harmful action and increases the collection of data that can help determine whether this disorder is at the root of the child's illness. Detailed tracking of visitation and untoward events helps identify any patterns there might be between select visitors and the course of the child's illness. Increasing private visitation provides more opportunity for harm. Educating visitors about aseptic techniques would not be of help if the infections are intentional, and preventing inadvertent contamination by the child himself would not affect factitious disorder by proxy. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 337-338 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Safe, Effective Care Environment
According to the Recent Life Changes Questionnaire, which situation would most necessitate a complete assessment of a person's stress status and coping abilities? a. A person who has been assigned more responsibility at work b. A parent whose job required relocation to a different city c. A person returning to college after an employer ceased operations d. A man who recently separated from his wife because of marital problems
ANS: C A person returning to college after losing a job is dealing with two significant stressors simultaneously. Together, these stressors total more life change units than any of the single stressors cited in the other options.
11. As a nurse escorts a patient being discharged after treatment for major depression, the patient gives the nurse a necklace with a heart pendant and says, "Thank you for helping mend my broken heart." Which is the nurse's best response? a. "Accepting gifts violates the policies and procedures of the facility." b. "I'm glad you feel so much better now. Thank you for the beautiful necklace." c. "I'm glad I could help you, but I can't accept the gift. My reward is seeing you with a renewed sense of hope." d. "Helping people is what nursing is all about. It's rewarding to me when patients recognize how hard we work."
ANS: C Accepting a gift creates a social rather than a therapeutic relationship with the patient and blurs the boundaries of the relationship. A caring nurse will acknowledge the patient's gesture of appreciation, but the gift should not be accepted.
Over a 5-year period, an adult experienced liver failure. A liver transplant was performed. During the immediate postoperative period, which intervention could the nurse recommend to enhance healing and reduce the harmful effects of stress? Aerobic exercise Listening to music Attending a support group Occasional chocolate treats
Listening to music
A patient says to the nurse, "My life doesn't have any happiness in it anymore. I once enjoyed holidays, but now they're just another day." The nurse documents this report as an example of: a. dysthymia. b. euphoria. c. anhedonia. d. anergia.
ANS: C Anhedonia is a common finding in many types of depression. It refers to feelings of a loss of pleasure in formerly pleasurable activities. Dysthymia is a diagnosis. Euphoria refers to an elated mood. Anergia means "without energy." PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 250 | Page 264 TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient tells the nurse, "My doctor thinks my problems with stress relate to the negative way I think about things and suggested I learn new ways of thinking." Which response by the nurse would support the recommendation? a. Encourage the patient to imagine being in calm circumstances. b. Provide the patient with a blank journal and guidance about journaling. c. Teach the patient to recognize, reconsider, and reframe irrational thoughts. d. Teach the patient to use instruments that give feedback about bodily functions.
ANS: C Cognitive reframing focuses on recognizing and correcting maladaptive patterns of thinking that create stress or interfere with coping. Cognitive reframing involves recognizing the habit of thinking about a situation or issue in a fixed, irrational, and unquestioning manner. Helping the patient to recognize and reframe (reword) such thoughts so that they are realistic and accurate promotes coping and reduces stress. Thinking about being in calming circumstances is a form of guided imagery. Instruments that give feedback about bodily functions are used in biofeedback. Journaling is effective for helping to increase self-awareness. However, none of these last three interventions is likely to alter the patient's manner of thinking.
A patient diagnosed with a 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. marginally successful. b. minimally successful. c. partially successful. d. totally achieved.
ANS: C Decreased preoccupation with symptoms and increased ability to perform activities of daily living suggest partial success of the treatment plan. Total success is rare because of patient resistance. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 333 | Page 337 TOP: Nursing Process: Evaluation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A nurse assesses a patient who takes lithium. Which findings demonstrate evidence of complications? c. Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea
ANS: C Diaphoresis, weakness, and nausea are early signs of lithium toxicity. Problems mentioned in the incorrect options are unrelated to lithium therapy.
A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking a tricyclic antidepressant 1 week ago. Today 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 will: a. limit the patient's activities to those that can be performed in a sitting position. b. withhold the drug, force oral fluids, and notify the health care provider. c. teach the patient strategies to manage postural hypotension. d. update the patient's mental status examination.
ANS: C 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 this information may convince the patient to continue the medication. Activity is an important aspect of the patient's treatment plan and should not be limited to activities that can be done in a sitting position. Withholding the drug, forcing oral fluids, and notifying the health care provider are unnecessary actions. Independent nursing action is called for. Updating a mental status examination is unnecessary. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266-267 (Table 14-6) | Page 269 (Box 14-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
8. During which phase of the nurse-patient relationship can the nurse anticipate that identified patient issues will be explored and resolved? a. Preorientation b. Orientation c. Working d. Termination
ANS: C During the working phase, the nurse strives to assist the patient in making connections among dysfunctional behaviors, thinking, and emotions and offers support while alternative coping behaviors are tried.
A patient who experienced a myocardial infarction was transferred from critical care to a step-down unit. The patient then used the call bell every 15 minutes for minor requests and complaints. Staff nurses reported feeling inadequate and unable to satisfy the patient's needs. When the nurse manager intervenes directly with this patient, which comment is most therapeutic? a. "I'm wondering if you are feeling anxious about your illness and being left alone." b. "The staff are concerned that you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving." c. "Let's talk about why you use your call light so frequently. It is a problem." d. "You frustrate the staff by calling them so often. Why are you doing that?"
a. "I'm wondering if you are feeling anxious about your illness and being left alone."
A person was online continuously for over 24 hours, posting rhymes on official government web-sites and inviting politicians to join social networks. The person has not slept or eaten for 3 days. What features of mania are evident? c. Poor judgment and hyperactivity
ANS: C Hyperactivity (activity without sleep) and poor judgment (posting rhymes on government web-sites) are characteristic of manic episodes. The distracters do not specifically apply to mania.
A person was directing traffic on a busy street, rapidly shouting, "To work, you jerk, for perks" and making obscene gestures at cars. The person has not slept or eaten for 3 days. Which assessment findings will have priority concern for this patient's plan of care? c. Hyperactivity; not eating and sleeping
ANS: C Hyperactivity, poor nutrition, hydration, and not sleeping take priority in terms of the needs listed above because they threaten the physical integrity of the patient. The other behaviors are less threatening to the patient's life.
23. A patient says, "I'm still on restriction, but I want to attend some off-unit activities. Would you ask the doctor to change my privileges?" What is the nurse's best response? a. "Why are you asking me when you're able to speak for yourself?" b. "I will be glad to address it when I see your doctor later today." c. "That's a good topic for you to take up with your doctor." d. "Do you think you can't speak to a doctor?"
ANS: C Nurses should encourage patients to work at their optimal level of functioning. A nurse does not act for the patient unless it is necessary. Acting for a patient increases feelings of helplessness and dependency.
A patient experiencing acute mania undresses in the group room and dances. The nurse intervenes initially by: c. putting a blanket around the patient and walking with the patient to a quiet room.
ANS: 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 to avoid argument and provide control is an effective approach.
19. Which issues should a nurse address during the first interview with a patient with a psychiatric disorder? a. Trust, congruence, attitudes, and boundaries b. Goals, resistance, unconscious motivations, and diversion c. Relationship parameters, the contract, confidentiality, and termination d. Transference, countertransference, intimacy, and developing resources
ANS: C Relationship parameters, the contract, confidentiality, and termination are issues that should be considered during the orientation phase of the relationship. The remaining options are issues that are dealt with later.
A patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder says, "My pain is 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.
ANS: 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 331-333 (Table 17-3) | Page 335 (Table 17-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Assessment MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
To assist patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorders, nursing interventions of high priority: a. explain the pathophysiology of symptoms. b. help these patients suppress feelings of anger. c. shift focus from somatic symptoms to feelings. d.investigate each physical symptom as it is reported
ANS: C Shifting the focus from somatic symptoms to feelings or to neutral topics conveys 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 would be that the patient would express feelings, including anger if it is present. Once physical symptoms are investigated, they do not need to be reinvestigated each time the patient reports them. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 333-335 (Table 17-4) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
Which treatment modality should a nurse recommend to help a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder to cope more effectively? a. Flooding b. Response prevention c. Relaxation techniques d.Systematic desensitization
ANS: C Somatic symptom disorders are commonly associated with complicated reactions to stress. These reactions are accompanied by muscle tension and pain. Relaxation can diminish the patient's perceptions of pain and reduce muscle tension. The distracters are modalities useful in treating selected anxiety disorders. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 334-335 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
Which physiologic responses are associated with severe long-term stress? Select all that apply. Obesity Hypotension Atherosclerosis Protein breakdown Stimulation of the immune system
Obesity Atherosclerosis Protein breakdown
3. After several therapeutic encounters with a patient who recently attempted suicide, which occurrence should cause the nurse to consider the possibility of countertransference? a. The patient's reactions toward the nurse seem realistic and appropriate. b. The patient states, "Talking to you feels like talking to my parents." c. The nurse feels oddly happy when the patient's mood begins to lift. d. The nurse develops a trusting relationship with the patient.
ANS: C Strong positive or negative reactions toward a patient or an over-identification with a patient signals possible countertransference. Nurses must carefully monitor their own feelings and reactions to detect countertransference and then seek supervision. Realistic and appropriate reactions from a patient toward a nurse are desirable. One incorrect response suggests transference. A trusting relationship with the patient is desirable.
A patient newly diagnosed as HIV-positive seeks the nurse's advice on how to reduce the risk of infections. The patient says, "I went to church years ago and I was in my best health then. Maybe I should start going to church again." Which response will the nurse offer? a. "Religion does not usually affect health, but you were younger and stronger then." b. "Contact with supportive people at a church might help, but religion itself is not especially helpful." c. "Studies show that spiritual practices can enhance immune system function and coping abilities." d. "Going to church would expose you to many potential infections. Let's think about some other options."
ANS: C Studies have shown a positive correlation between spiritual practices and enhanced immune system function and sense of well-being. The other options wrongly suggest that spiritual practices have little effect on the immune system or reject the patient's preferences regarding health management.
6. Termination of a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship with a patient has been successful when the nurse: a. avoids upsetting the patient by shifting focus to other patients before the discharge. b. gives the patient a personal telephone number and permission to call after discharge. c. discusses with the patient changes that have happened during the relationship and evaluates the outcomes. d. offers to meet the patient for coffee and conversation three times a week after discharge.
ANS: C Summarizing and evaluating progress help validate the experience for the patient and the nurse and facilitate closure. Termination must be discussed; avoiding the discussion by spending little time with the patient promotes feelings of abandonment. Successful termination requires that the relationship be brought to closure without the possibility of dependency-producing ongoing contact.
A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which division of the autonomic nervous system will be stimulated in response to this experience? a. Limbic system b. Peripheral nervous system c. Sympathetic nervous system d. Parasympathetic nervous system
ANS: C The autonomic nervous system is comprised of the sympathetic (fight or flight response) and parasympathetic nervous system (relaxation response). In times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated. A person fearful of heights would experience stress associated with the experience of driving across a high bridge. The peripheral nervous system responds to messages from the sympathetic nervous system. The limbic system processes emotional responses but is not specifically part of the autonomic nervous system.
A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which structure will stimulate a response from the autonomic nervous system? a. Thalamus b. Parietal lobe c. Hypothalamus d. Pituitary gland
ANS: C The individual will find this experience stressful. The hypothalamus functions as the command-and-control center when receiving stressful signals. The hypothalamus responds to signals of stress by engaging the autonomic nervous system. The parietal lobe is responsible for interpretation of other sensations. The thalamus processes messages associated with pain and wakefulness. The pituitary gland may be involved in other aspects of the person's response but would not stimulate the autonomic nervous system.
A patient reports, "I am overwhelmed by stress." Which question by the nurse would be most important to use in the initial assessment of this patient? a. "Tell me about your family history. Do you have any relatives who have problems with stress?" b. "Tell me about your exercise. How much activity do you typically get in a day?" c. "Tell me about the kinds of things you do to reduce or cope with your stress." d. "Stress can interfere with sleep. How much did you sleep last night?"
ANS: C The most important data to collect during an initial assessment is that which reflects how stress is affecting the patient and how he is coping with stress at present. This data would indicate whether or not his distress is placing him in danger (e.g., by elevating his blood pressure dangerously or via maladaptive responses, such as drinking) and would help the nurse understand how he copes and how well his coping strategies and resources serve him. Of the choices presented, the highest priority would be to determine what he is doing to cope at present, preferably via an open-ended inquiry. Family history, the extent of his use of exercise, and how much sleep he is getting are all helpful but seek data that is less of a priority. Also, the manner in which such data is sought here is likely to provide only brief responses (e.g., how much sleep he got on one particular night is probably less important than how much he is sleeping in general).
A patient diagnosed with emphysema has severe shortness of breath and needs portable oxygen when leaving home. Recently the patient has reduced activity because of fear that breathing difficulty will occur. A nurse suggests using guided imagery. Which image should the patient be encouraged to visualize? a. Engaging in activity without using any supplemental oxygen b. Sleeping comfortably and soundly, without respiratory distress c. Feeling relaxed and taking regular deep breaths when leaving home d. Having a younger, healthier body that knows no exercise limitations
ANS: C The patient has dysfunctional images of dyspnea. Guided imagery can help replace the dysfunctional image with a positive coping image. Athletes have found that picturing successful images can enhance performance. Encouraging the patient to imagine a regular breathing depth and rate will help improve oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange and help achieve further relaxation. Other options focus on unrealistic goals (being younger, not needing supplemental oxygen) or restrict her quality of life.
Consider these three anticonvulsant medications: divalproex (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and gabapentin (Neurontin). Which medication also belongs to this classification? c. lamotrigine (La-mictal)
ANS: C The three drugs in the stem of the question are all anticonvulsants. Lamotrigine is also an anticonvulsant. Clonazepam is an anxiolytic; aripiprazole and risperidone are antipsychotic drugs. See relationship to audience response question.
Which dinner menu is best suited for a patient with acute mania? c. Broiled chicken breast on a roll, an ear of corn, and an apple
ANS: C These foods provide adequate nutrition, but more important they are finger foods that the hyperactive patient could "eat on the run." The foods in the incorrect options cannot be eaten without utensils.
A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder becomes hyperactive after discontinuing lithium. The patient threatens to hit another patient. Which comment by the nurse is appropriate? c. "Do not hit anyone. If you are unable to control yourself, we will help you."
ANS: 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 deescalate the situation. Limits should be set in simple, concrete terms. The incorrect responses do not offer appropriate assistance to the patient, threaten the patient with seclusion as punishment, and ask a rhetorical question.
A patient diagnosed with depression repeatedly tells staff, "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. Stress overload c. Risk for suicide d. Spiritual distress
ANS: C A patient diagnosed 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. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Analyze (Analysis) REF: Page 255 | Page 256 (Case Study and Nursing Care Plan 14-1) | Page 260 TOP: Nursing Process: Diagnosis/Analysis MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
When counseling patients diagnosed with major depression, 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
ANS: 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 between nerve cells in the brain and that it is at least as effective as medication. Evidence is not present to support superior outcomes for the other psychotherapeutic modalities mentioned. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Understand (Comprehension) REF: Page 274 TOP: Nursing Process: Planning MSC: Client Needs: Psychosocial Integrity
A patient diagnosed with major depression began taking escitalopram (Lexapro) 5 days ago. The patient 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 increase the dose. 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 symptoms of improvement.
ANS: C Escitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. One to three weeks of treatment is usually necessary before symptom relief occurs. This information is important to share with patients. PTS: 1 DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: Page 266 (Table 14-6) | Page 268 (Box 14-3) TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity
Which scenario demonstrates a dissociative fugue? a. After being caught in an extramarital affair, a man disappeared but then reappeared months later with no memory of what occurred while he was missing. b. A man is extremely anxious about his problems and sometimes experiences dazed periods of several minutes passing without conscious awareness of them. c. A woman finds unfamiliar clothes in her closet, is recognized when she goes to new restaurants, and complains of "blackouts" despite not drinking. d. A woman reports that when she feels tired or stressed, it seems like her body is not real and is somehow growing smaller.
a. After being caught in an extramarital affair, a man disappeared but then reappeared months later with no memory of what occurred while he was missing. The patient in a dissociative fugue state relocates and lacks recall of his life before the fugue began. Often fugue states follow traumatic experiences and sometimes involve assuming a new identity. Such persons at some point find themselves in their new surroundings, unable to recall who they are or how they got there. A feeling of detachment from ones body or from the external reality is an indication of depersonalization disorder. Losing track of several minutes when highly anxious is not an indication of a dissociative disorder and is common in states of elevated anxiety. Finding evidence of having bought clothes or gone to restaurants without any explanation for these is suggestive of dissociative identity disorder, particularly when periods are lost to the patient (blackouts). See relationship to audience response question.
8. The activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) contributes to a slowing of neural activity. Which of the following drugs facilitates the action of GABA? a. Benzodiazepines b. Antihistamines c. Anticonvulsants d. Noradrenergic
a. Benzodiazepines
2. Which patient has an increased risk for the development of anxiety and will require frequent assessment by the nurse? Select all that apply. a. Exacerbation of asthma signs and symptoms b. History of peanut and strawberry allergies c. History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease d. Current treatment for unstable angina pectoris e. History of a traumatic brain injury
a. Exacerbation of asthma signs and symptoms c. History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease d. Current treatment for unstable angina pectoris e. History of a traumatic brain injury
A nurse assesses a patient suspected of having somatic symptom disorder. Which assessment findings regarding this patient support the suspected diagnosis? Select all that apply. a. Female b. Reports frequent syncope c. Rates pain as "1" on a scale of "10" d. First diagnosed with psoriasis at age 12 e. Reports insomnia often results from back pain
a. Female b. Reports frequent syncope e. Reports insomnia often results from back pain
Which presentations suggest the possibility of a factitious disorder, self-directed type? Select all that apply. a. History of multiple hospitalizations without findings of physical illness b. History of multiple medical procedures or exploratory surgeries c. Going from one doctor to another seeking the desired response d. Claims illness to obtain financial benefit or other incentive e. Difficulty describing symptoms
a. History of multiple hospitalizations without findings of physical illness b. History of multiple medical procedures or exploratory surgeries
A soldier in a combat zone tells the nurse, "I saw a child get blown up over a year ago, and I still keep seeing bits of flesh everywhere. I see something red, and the visions race back to my mind." Which phenomenon associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the soldier describing? a. Reexperiencing b. Hyperarousal c. Avoidance d. Psychosis
a. Reexperiencing Spontaneous or cued recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic events are often associated with PTSD. The soldier has described intrusive thoughts and visions associated with reexperiencing the traumatic event. This description does not indicate psychosis, hypervigilance, or avoidance.
A wife received news that her husband died of heart failure and called her family to come to the hospital. She angrily tells the nurse who cared for him, "He would still be alive if you had given him your undivided attention." Select the nurse's best intervention. a. Say to the wife, "I understand you are feeling upset. I will stay with you until your family comes." b. Say to the wife, "Your husband's heart was so severely damaged that it could no longer pump." c. Say to the wife, "I will call the health care provider to discuss this matter with you." d. Hold the wife's hand in silence until the family arrives.
a. Say to the wife, "I understand you are feeling upset. I will stay with you until your family comes." The nurse builds trust and shows compassion in the face of adjustment disorders. Therapeutic responses provide comfort. The nurse should show patience and tact while offering sympathy and warmth. The distracters are defensive, evasive, or placating.
A patient diagnosed with a 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. Spiritual distress e. Ineffective role performance
6. In a parent teacher conference, the school nurse meets with the parents of a profoundly shy 8-year-old girl. The parents hold hands, speak softly, respond briefly, and have poor eye contact. The nurse recognizes that the child is most likely exposed to parental modeling and: a. The inherited shyness trait b. A lack of affection in the home c. Severe punishment by the parents d. Is afraid to say something foolish
a. The inherited shyness trait
During an admission assessment and interview, which channels of information communication should the nurse be monitoring? (SATA) a. auditory b. visual c. written d. tactile e. olfactory
a. auditory b. visual d. tactile e. olfactory
When should a nurse be most alert to the possibility of communication errors resulting in harm to the patient? a. change of shift report b. admission interviews c. one-to-one conversations with patient d. conversations with patients families
a. change of shift report
Relaxation techniques help patients who have experienced major traumas because they: a. engage the parasympathetic nervous system. b. increase sympathetic stimulation. c. increase the metabolic rate. d. release hormones.
a. engage the parasympathetic nervous system. In response to trauma, the sympathetic arousal symptoms of rapid heart rate and rapid respiration prepare the person for flight or fight responses. Afterward, the dorsal vagal response damps down the sympathetic nervous system. This is a parasympathetic response with the heart rate and respiration slowing down and decreasing the blood pressure. Relaxation techniques promote activity of the parasympathetic nervous system.
What principle about the nurse-patient communication should guide a nurse's fear about "saying the wrong thing" to a patient? a. patients tends to appreciate a well-meaning person who conveys genuine acceptance, respect, and concern for their situation b. the patient is more interested in talking to you than listening to what you have to say and so is not likely to be offended c. considering the patient's history, there is little chance that the comment will do any actual harm d. most people with a mental illness have be necessity developed a high tolerance of forgiveness
a. patients tend to appreciate a well-meaning person who conveys genuine acceptance, respect, and concern for their situation
The nurse who is counseling a patient with dissociative identity disorder should understand that the assessment of highest priority is: a. risk for self-harm. b. cognitive function. c. memory impairment. d. condition of self-esteem.
a. risk for self-harm. Assessments that relate to patient safety take priority. Patients with dissociative disorders may be at risk for suicide or self-mutilation, so the nurse must be alert for indicators of risk for self-injury. The other options are important assessments but rank below safety. Treatment motivation, while an important consideration, is not necessarily a part of the nursing assessment.
Carolina is surprised when her patient doesn't show for a regularly scheduled appointment. When contacted, the patient states, "I don't need to come see you anymore. I have found a therapy app on my phone that I love." How should Carolina response to this news? a. that sounds exciting, would you be willing to visit and show me the app b. at this time, there is no real evidence that the app can replace our therapy c. I am not sure that is a good idea right now, we are so close to progress d. why would you think that is a better option than meeting with me
a. that sounds exciting, would you be willing to visit and show me the app
A desired outcome for the maintenance phase of treatment for a manic client would be that the client will exhibit optimistic, energetic, playful behavior. adhere to follow-up medical appointments. take medication more than 50% of the time. use alcohol to moderate occasional mood "highs."
adhere to follow-up medical appointments. The client would be living in the community during the maintenance phase. Keeping follow-up appointments is highly desirable.REF: Page 234-235
Which statement(s) made by the nurse demonstrates an understanding of the effective use of relaxation therapy for anxiety management? Select all that apply. a) "Relaxation therapy's main goal is to prevent exhaustion by removing muscle tension." b) "Muscle relaxation promotes the relaxation response." c) "Show me how you learned to deep breathe in yesterday's therapy session." d) "You've said that going to group makes you nervous so let's start relaxing now." e) "I've given you written descriptions of the various relaxation exercises for you to review."
b) "Muscle relaxation promotes the relaxation response." c) "Show me how you learned to deep breathe in yesterday's therapy session." d) "You've said that going to group makes you nervous so let's start relaxing now." e) "I've given you written descriptions of the various relaxation exercises for you to review."
Which medication should the nurse be prepared to educate patients on when they are prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for panic attacks? a) Alpraxolam (Xanax) b) Fluoxetine (Prozac) c) Clonazepam (Klonopin) d) Venlafaxine (Effexor)
b) Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Samantha is a new patient to the mental health clinic and is seeking assistance for what she describes as "severe anxiety." In addition to daily self-medicating with alchol, Samantha describes long-term use of herbal kava. The nurse knows that kava is associated with inhibiting P450 and orders which of the following tests? a) Electrocardiogram b) Liver enzymes c) Glomerular filtration rate d) Complete blood count
b) Liver enzymes
The first stage of the general adaptation syndrome can be characterized as a. Eustress b. Adaptive c. Maladaptive d. Psychological
b. The initial adaptive response of the general adaptation syndrome prepares the individual to fight or flee in the face of acute stress.
After the sudden death of his wife, a man says, "I can't live without her...she was my whole life." Select the nurse's most therapeutic reply. a. "Each day will get a little better." b. "Her death is a terrible loss for you." c. "It's important to recognize that she is no longer suffering." d. "Your friends will help you cope with this change in your life."
b. "Her death is a terrible loss for you." Adjustment disorders may be associated with grief. A statement that validates a bereaved persons loss is more helpful than false reassurances and clichs. It signifies understanding.
Two weeks ago, a soldier returned to the U.S. from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan. The soldier was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which comment by the soldier requires the nurse's immediate attention? a. "It's good to be home. I missed my home, family, and friends." b. "I saw my best friend get killed by a roadside bomb. I don't understand why it wasn't me." c. "Sometimes I think I hear bombs exploding, but it's just the noise of traffic in my hometown." d. "I want to continue my education, but I'm not sure how I will fit in with other college students."
b. "I saw my best friend get killed by a roadside bomb. I don't understand why it wasn't me." The correct response indicates the soldier is thinking about death and feeling survivors guilt. These emotions may accompany suicidal ideation, which warrants the nurses follow-up assessment. Suicide is a high risk among military personnel diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder. One distracter indicates flashbacks, common with persons with PTSD, but not solely indicative that further problems exist. The other distracters are normal emotions associated with returning home and change.
A patient says, "I know I have a brain tumor despite the results of the MRI. The radiologist is wrong. People who have brain tumors vomit, and yesterday I vomited all day." Which response by the nurse fosters cognitive reframing? a. "You do not have a brain tumor. The more you talk about it, the more it reinforces your belief." b. "Let's see if there are any other possible explanations for your vomiting." c. "You seem so worried. Let's talk about how you're feeling." d. "We need to talk about something else."
b. "Let's see if there are any other possible explanations for your vomiting."
4. Which statement(s) made by the nurse demonstrates an understanding of the effective use of relaxation therapy for anxiety management? Select all that apply. a. "Relaxation therapy's main goal is to prevent exhaustion by removing muscle tension." b. "Muscle relaxation promotes the relaxation response." c. "Show me how you learned to deep breathe in yesterday's therapy session." d. "You've said that going to group makes you nervous so let's start relaxing now." e. "I've given you written descriptions of the various relaxation exercises for you to review."
b. "Muscle relaxation promotes the relaxation response." c. "Show me how you learned to deep breathe in yesterday's therapy session." d. "You've said that going to group makes you nervous so let's start relaxing now." e. "I've given you written descriptions of the various relaxation exercises for you to review."
The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) says to the nurse, "That patient with amnesia looks fine, but when I talk to her, she seems vague. What should I be doing for her?" Select the nurse's best reply. a. "Spend as much time with her as you can and ask questions about her life." b. "Use short, simple sentences and keep the environment calm and protective." c. "Provide more information about her past to reduce the mysteries that are causing anxiety." d. "Structure her time with activities to keep her busy, stimulated, and regaining concentration."
b. "Use short, simple sentences and keep the environment calm and protective." Disruptions in ability to perform activities of daily living, confusion, and anxiety are often apparent in patients with amnesia. Offering simple directions to promote activities of daily living and reduce confusion helps increase feelings of safety and security. A calm, secure, predictable, protective environment is also helpful when a person is dealing with a great deal of uncertainty. Recollection of memories should proceed at its own pace, and the patient should only gradually be given information about her past. Asking questions that require recall that the patient does not possess will only add frustration. Quiet, undemanding activities should be provided as the patient tolerates them and should be balanced with rest periods; the patients time should not be loaded with demanding or stimulating activities.
Which statement made by the nurse demonstrates the best understanding of nonverbal communication? a. "the patient's verbal and nonverbal communication is often different" b. "when my patient responds to my question, I check for congruence between verbal and nonverbal communication to help validate the response" c. "if a patient is slumped in the chair, I can be sure he's angry or depressed" d. "it's easier to understand verbal communication than nonverbal communication"
b. "when my patient responds to my questions, I check for congruence between verbal and nonverbal communication to help validate the response"
Which prescription medication would the nurse expect to be prescribed for a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder? a. Narcotic analgesics for use as needed for acute pain b. Antidepressant medications to treat underlying depression c. Long-term use of benzodiazepines to support coping with anxiety d. Conventional antipsychotic medications to correct cognitive distortions
b. Antidepressant medications to treat underlying depression
A patient with blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) disorder says, "All the doctors and nurses in the hospital stop by often to check on me. Too bad people outside the hospital don't find me as interesting." Which nursing diagnosis is most relevant? a. Social isolation b. Chronic low self-esteem c. Interrupted family processes d. Ineffective health maintenance
b. Chronic low self-esteem
A patient diagnosed with depersonalization disorder tells the nurse, "It's starting again. I feel as though I'm going to float away." Which intervention would be most appropriate at this point? a. Notify the health care provider of this change in the patient's behavior. b. Engage the patient in a physical activity such as exercise. c. Isolate the patient until the sensation has diminished. d. Administer a PRN dose of anti-anxiety medication.
b. Engage the patient in a physical activity such as exercise. Helping the patient apply a grounding technique, such as exercise, assists the patient to interrupt the dissociative process. Medication can help reduce anxiety but does not directly interrupt the dissociative process. Isolation would allow the sensation to overpower the patient. It is not necessary to notify the health care provider.
A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder who has frequent flashbacks as well as persistent symptoms of arousal. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care? a. Trigger flashbacks intentionally in order to help the patient learn to cope with them. b. Explain that the physical symptoms are related to the psychological state. c. Encourage repression of memories associated with the traumatic event. d. Support "numbing" as a temporary way to manage intolerable feelings.
b. Explain that the physical symptoms are related to the psychological state. Persons with posttraumatic stress disorder often experience somatic symptoms or sympathetic nervous system arousal that can be confusing and distressing. Explaining that these are the bodys responses to psychological trauma helps the patient understand how such symptoms are part of the illness and something that will respond to treatment. This decreases powerlessness over the symptoms and helps instill a sense of hope. It also helps the patient to understand how relaxation, breathing exercises, and imagery can be helpful in symptom reduction. The goal of treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder is to come to terms with the event so treatment efforts would not include repression of memories or numbing. Triggering flashbacks would increase patient distress.
A soldier returned home from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan and was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The soldier says, "If there's a loud noise at night, I get under my bed because I think we're getting bombed." What type of experience has the soldier described? a. Illusion b. Flashback c. Nightmare d. Auditory hallucination
b. Flashback Flashbacks are dissociative reactions in which an individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event were recurring. Illusions are misinterpretations of stimuli, and although the experience is similar, it is better termed a flashback because of the diagnosis of PTSD. Auditory hallucinations have no external stimuli. Nightmares commonly accompany PTSD, but this experience was stimulated by an actual environmental sound.
The gas pedal on a person's car stuck on a busy interstate highway, causing the car to accelerate rapidly. For 20 minutes, the car was very difficult to control. Afterward, this person's cortisol regulation was compromised. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect associated with the dysregulation of cortisol? a. Weight gain b. Flashbacks c. Headache d. Diuresis
b. Flashbacks Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress. Severe dissociation or mindflight occurs for those who have suffered significant trauma. The episodic failure of dissociation causes intrusive symptoms such as flashbacks, thus dysregulating cortisol. The cortisol level may go up or down, so diuresis and/or weight gain may or may not occur. Answering this question correctly requires that the student apply prior learning regarding the effects of cortisol.
3. Which medication should the nurse be prepared to educate patients on when they are prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for panic attacks? a. Alprazolam (Xanax) b. Fluoxetine (Prozac) c. Clonazepam (Klonopin) d. Venlafaxine (Effexor)
b. Fluoxetine (Prozac)
A patient reports fears of having cervical cancer and says to the nurse, "I've had Pap smears by six different doctors. The results were normal, but I'm sure that's because of errors in the laboratory." Which disorder would the nurse suspect? a. Conversion (functional neurological) disorder b. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis) c. Somatic symptom disorder d. Factitious disorder
b. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)
A child has a history of multiple hospitalizations for recurrent systemic infections. The child is not improving in the hospital, despite aggressive treatment. Factitious disorder by proxy is suspected. Which nursing interventions are appropriate? Select all that apply. a. Increase private visiting time for the parents to improve bonding. b. Keep careful, detailed records of visitation and untoward events. c. Place mittens on the child to reduce access to ports and incisions. d. Encourage family members to visit in groups of two or three. e. Interact with the patient frequently during visiting hours.
b. Keep careful, detailed records of visitation and untoward events. d. Encourage family members to visit in groups of two or three. e. Interact with the patient frequently during visiting hours.
9. Samantha is a new patient to the mental health clinic and is seeking assistance for what she describes as "severe anxiety." In addition to daily self-medicating with alcohol, Samantha describes long-term use of herbal kava. The nurse knows that kava is associated with inhibiting P450 and orders which of the following tests? a. Electrocardiogram b. Liver enzymes c. Glomerular filtration rate d. Complete blood count
b. Liver enzymes
A patient has blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) disorder but is unconcerned about this problem. Which understanding should guide the nurse's planning for this patient? a. The patient is suppressing accurate feelings regarding the problem. b. The patient's anxiety is relieved through the physical symptom. c. The patient's optic nerve transmission has been impaired. d. The patient will not disclose genuine fears.
b. The patient's anxiety is relieved through the physical symptom.
A medical-surgical nurse works with a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder. Care planning is facilitated by understanding that the patient will probably: a. readily seek psychiatric counseling. b. be resistant to accepting psychiatric help. c. attend psychotherapy sessions without encouragement. d. be eager to discover the true reasons for physical symptoms.
b. be resistant to accepting psychiatric help.
A patient with a somatic symptom disorder has the nursing diagnosis Interrupted family processes related to patient's disabling symptoms as evidenced by 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 other family members. b. demonstrate performance of former roles and tasks. c. focus energy on problems occurring in the family. d. rely on family members to meet personal needs.
b. demonstrate performance of former roles and tasks.
A patient has blindness related to conversion (functional neurological) 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 self after explaining arrangement of the food on the tray. c. direct the patient to locate items on the tray independently and feed self. d. address needs of other patients in the dining room, then feed this patient.
b. expect the patient to feed self after explaining arrangement of the food on the tray.
Which student behavior is consistent with therapeutic communication? a. offering your opinion when asked to convey support b. summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words c. interrupting periods of silence before they become awkward for the patient d. telling the patient he did well when you approve of his statements of actions
b. summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words
You have been working closely with a patient for the past month. Today he tells you he is looking forward to meeting with his new psychiatrist but frowns and avoid eye contact while reporting this to you. Which of the following responses would most likely by therapeutic? a. a new psychiatrist is a chance to start fresh; I am sure it will go well for you b. you say you look forward to the meeting, but you appear anxious or unhappy c. I notice that you frowned and avoided eye contact just now, don't you feel well d. I get the impression you don't really want to see you psychiatrist-can you tell me why
b. you say you look forward to the meeting, but you appear anxious or unhappy
The nurse is providing care for a patient demonstrating behaviors associated with moderate levels of anxiety. What questions should the nurse ask initially when attempting to help the patient deescalate their anxiety? a) "Do you know what will help you manage your anxiety?" b) "Do you need help to manage your anxiety?" c) "Can you identify what was happening when your anxiety began to increase?" d) "Are you feeling anxious right now?"
c) "Can you identify what was happening when your anxiety began to increase?"
Isabel is a straight A student, yet she suffers from severe test anxiety and seeks medical attention. The nurse interviews Isabel and develops a plan of care. The nurse recognizes effective teaching about mild anxiety when Isabel states: a) "I would like to try a benzodiazepine for my anxiety" b) "If I study harder, my anxiety level will go down" c) "Mild anxiety is okay because it helps me to focus" d) "I have a fear that I will fail at college"
c) "Mild anxiety is okay because it helps me to focus"
A homebound patient diagnosed with agoraphobia has been receiving therapy in the home. The nurse evaluates patient teaching is effective when the patient states: a) "I may never leave the house again." b) "Having groceries delivered is very convenient." c) "My risk for agoraphobia is increased by my family history." d) "I will go out again, someday, just not today."
c) "My risk for agoraphobia is increased by my family history."
A patient is extremely depressed after ending a relationship with a partner. The nurse is teaching cognitive reframing techniques to this patient as a means to counteract depression. Which response given by the patient indicates effective teaching by the nurse? a. "'My partner will realize that I was not wrong." b. "I was destined to face this situation in my life." c. "I have many friends who love and care for me." d. "I will never think about my partner again in my life."
c. The nurse should teach cognitive reframing to patients who are depressed and suffer from self-blame. It helps the patients develop positive insight towards life and real-life situations. In this regard, the patient's response, "I have many friends who love and care for me," is appropriate because it is a positive statement. The response, "I will never think about my partner again in my life," is not appropriate. It indicates that the patient is not accepting the reality and avoids thoughts related to the incident. The response, "My destiny is responsible for the breakup," is not appropriate either. It indicates that the patient is compromising with the situation. The response, "My partner will realize that I was not wrong," is not appropriate. The patient is reflecting anger and distress in this response. p. 167
1. The nurse is providing care for a patient demonstrating behaviors associated with moderate levels of anxiety. What question should the nurse ask initially when attempting to help the patient deescalate their anxiety? a. "Do you know what will help you manage your anxiety?" b. "Do you need help to manage your anxiety?" c. "Can you identify what was happening when your anxiety began to increase?" d. "Are you feeling anxious right now?"
c. "Can you identify what was happening when your anxiety began to increase?"
7. Isabel is a straight-A student, yet she suffers from severe test anxiety and seeks medical attention. The nurse interviews Isabel and develops a plan of care. The nurse recognizes effective teaching about mild anxiety when Isabel states: a. "I would like to try a benzodiazepine for my anxiety." b. "If I study harder, my anxiety level will go down." c. "Mild anxiety is okay because it helps me to focus." d. "I have fear that I will fail at college."
c. "Mild anxiety is okay because it helps me to focus."
10. A homebound patient diagnosed with agoraphobia has been receiving therapy in the home. The nurse evaluates patient teaching is effective when the patient states: a. "I may never leave the house again." b. "Having groceries delivered is very convenient." c. "My risk for agoraphobia is increased by my family history." d. "I will go out again, someday, just not today."
c. "My risk for agoraphobia is increased by my family history."
An adult patient admitted with anxiety states, "My counselor keeps talking about my stressors. What exactly are stressors?" How does the nurse best respond to the patient? a. "Stressors are complicated neurostimuli that cause mental illness." b. "Instead of focusing on what stressors are, let's explore your coping skills." c. "Stressors are events that threaten your current functioning and require you to adapt." d. "It's best if you ask questions like that of your health care provider for a complete answer."
c. "Stressors are events that threaten your current functioning and require you to adapt." The statement "Stressors are events that threaten your current functioning and require you to adapt" is the best explanation of stressors. Stressors are not complicated neurostimuli; telling the patient to address these questions to the health care provider fails to educate the patient, which is the nurse's responsibility. Exploring coping skills would be a good intervention at a later time but does not address the patient's question and changes the subject.
A woman just received notification that her husband died. She approaches the nurse who cared for him during his last hours and says angrily, "If you had given him your undivided attention, he would still be alive." How should the nurse analyze this behavior? a. The comment suggests potential allegations of malpractice. b. In some cultures, grief is expressed solely through anger. c. Anger is an expected emotion in an adjustment disorder. d. The patient had ambivalent feelings about her husband.
c. Anger is an expected emotion in an adjustment disorder. Symptoms of adjustment disorder run the gamut of all forms of distress including guilt, depression, and anger. Anger may protect the bereaved from facing the devastating reality of loss.
A soldier who served in a combat zone returned to the U.S. The soldier's spouse complains to the nurse, "We had planned to start a family, but now he won't talk about it. He won't even look at children." The spouse is describing which symptom associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? a. Reexperiencing b. Hyperarousal c. Avoidance d. Psychosis
c. Avoidance Physiological reactions to reminders of the event that include persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the trauma results in the individuals avoiding talking about the event or avoiding activities, people, or places that arouse memories of the trauma. Avoidance is exemplified by a sense of foreshortened future and estrangement. There is no evidence this soldier is having hyperarousal or reexperiencing war-related traumas. Psychosis is not evident.
A patient states, "I feel detached and weird all the time. It is as though I am looking at life through a cloudy window. Everything seems unreal. It really messes up things at work and school." This scenario is most suggestive of which health problem? a. Acute stress disorder b. Dissociative amnesia c. Depersonalization disorder d. Disinhibited social engagement disorder
c. Depersonalization disorder Depersonalization disorder involves a persistent or recurrent experience of feeling detached from and outside oneself. Although reality testing is intact, the experience causes significant impairment in social or occupational functioning and distress to the individual. Dissociative amnesia involves memory loss. Children with disinhibited social engagement disorder demonstrate no normal fear of strangers and are unusually willing to go off with strangers. Individuals with ASD experience three or more dissociative symptoms associated with a traumatic event, such as a subjective sense of numbing, detachment, or absence of emotional responsiveness; a reduction in awareness of surroundings; derealization; depersonalization or dissociative amnesia. In the scenario, the patient experiences only one symptom.
Which treatment modality should a nurse recommend to help a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder to cope more effectively? a. Flooding b. Response prevention c. Relaxation techniques d. Systematic desensitization
c. Relaxation techniques
A person runs from a crowded nightclub after a pyrotechnics show causes the building to catch fire. Which division of the autonomic nervous system will be stimulated in response to this experience? a. Limbic system b. Peripheral nervous system c. Sympathetic nervous system d. Parasympathetic nervous system
c. Sympathetic nervous system The autonomic nervous system is comprised of the sympathetic (fight or flight response) and parasympathetic nervous system (relaxation response). In times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated. A person would experience stress associated with the experience of being in danger. The peripheral nervous system responds to messages from the sympathetic nervous system. The limbic system processes emotional responses but is not specifically part of the autonomic nervous system.
A soldier returns to the United States from active duty in a combat zone in Afghanistan. The soldier is diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The nurse's highest priority is to screen this soldier for: a. bipolar disorder. b. schizophrenia. c. depression. d. dementia.
c. depression. Comorbidities for adults with PTSD include depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and dissociative disorders. Incidence of the disorders identified in the distracters is similar to the general population.
After major reconstructive surgery, a patient's wounds dehisced. Extensive wound care was required for 6 months, causing the patient to miss work and social activities. Which pathophysiology would be expected for this patient? Dysfunction of the: a. pons. b. occipital lobe. c. hippocampus. d. hypothalamus.
c. hippocampus. The scenario presents chronic and potentially debilitating stress. If arousal continues unabated, neuronal changes occur that alter the neural circuitry of the prefrontal cortex, reducing the size the hippocampus so that memory is impaired.
A patient diagnosed with a 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. marginally successful. b. minimally successful. c. partially successful. d. totally achieved.
c. partially successful.
A patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder says, "My pain is 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.
To assist patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorders, nursing interventions of high priority: a. explain the pathophysiology of symptoms. b. help these patients suppress feelings of anger. c. shift focus from somatic symptoms to feelings. d. investigate each physical symptom as it is reported.
c. shift focus from somatic symptoms to feelings.
James is a 42-year old patient with Schizophrenia. He approaches you as you arrive for day shift and anxiously reports, "Last night, demons came to my room and tried to rape me." Which response would be most therapeutic? a. There are no such things as demons, what you saw were hallucinations b. it is not possible for anyone to enter your room at night, you are safe here c. you seem very upset, please tell me more about what you experienced last night d. that must have been frightening, but we will check on you at night at you will be safe
c. you seem very upset please tell me more about when you experienced last night
The nurse can expect a client demonstrating typical manic behavior to be attired in clothing that is dark colored and modest. colorful and outlandish. compulsively neat and clean. ill-fitted and ragged.
colorful and outlandish. Manic clients often manage to dress and apply makeup in ways that create a colorful, even bizarre, appearance.REF: 233-234
A person who has numerous hypomanic and dysthymic episodes can be assessed as demonstrating characteristics of bipolar II disorder. bipolar I disorder. cyclothymia. seasonal affective disorder.
cyclothymia. Cyclothymia refers to mood swings involving hypomania and dysthymia of 2 years' duration. The mood swings are not severe enough to prompt hospitalization.REF: 228
To maximize the therapeutic effect, which lifestyle practice should the nurse discourage for a patient who has been recently prescribed an antianxiety medication? a) Eating high protein foods b) Using acetaminophen without first discussing it with a healthcare provider c) Taking medications after eating dinner or while having a bedtime snack d) Buying a large coffee with sugar and extra cream each morning on the way to work
d) Buying a large coffee with sugar and extra cream each morning on the way to work
A Hispanic woman has been in an abusive relationship for 3 years. Which comment by this patient is most likely? a. "I need help with preparing an escape plan." b. "I feel so depressed about the failure of my marriage." c. "He is not a good man. His father and brother are also abusive." d. "I have very bad headaches that make it hard for me to care for my children."
d. The patient is experiencing severe stress but expressing it somatically. The overwhelming majority of Asians, Africans, and Central Americans tend to express distress in somatic terms and actually experience it physically. In the correct answer, the patient has expressed her distress about the abuse with complaints of headaches. Although Western European and North American cultures tend to subscribe to a psychophysiologic view of stress and somatic distress, this is not the dominant view in other cultures. The incorrect responses depict emotional recognition of stress associated with the abuse. p. 162
A soldier returned home last year after deployment to a war zone. The soldier's spouse complains, "We were going to start a family, but now he won't talk about it. He will not look at children. I wonder if we're going to make it as a couple." Select the nurse's best response. a. "Posttraumatic stress disorder often changes a person's sexual functioning." b. "I encourage you to continue to participate in social activities where children are present." c. "Have you talked with your spouse about these reactions? Sometimes we just need to confront behavior." d. "Posttraumatic stress disorder often strains relationships. Here are some community resources for help and support."
d. "Posttraumatic stress disorder often strains relationships. Here are some community resources for help and support." Posttraumatic stress disorder precipitates changes that often lead to divorce. Its important to provide support to both the veteran and spouse. Confrontation will not be effective. While its important to provide information, on-going support will be more effective.
A store clerk was killed during a robbery 2 weeks ago. His widow, who has a long history of schizoaffective disorder, cries spontaneously when talking about his death. Select the nurse's most therapeutic response. a. "Are you taking your medications the way they are prescribed?" b. "This loss is harder to accept because of your mental illness. Do you think you should be hospitalized?" c. "I'm worried about how much you are crying. Your grief over your husband's death has gone on too long." d. "The unexpected death of your husband is very painful. I'm glad you are able to talk about your feelings."
d. "The unexpected death of your husband is very painful. I'm glad you are able to talk about your feelings." The patient is expressing feelings related to the loss, and this is an expected and healthy behavior. This patient is at risk for a maladaptive response because of the history of a serious mental illness, but the nurses priority intervention is to form a therapeutic alliance and support the patients expression of feelings. Crying at 2 weeks after his death is expected and normal.
5. To maximize the therapeutic effect, which lifestyle practice should the nurse discourage for a patient who has been recently prescribed an antianxiety medication? a. Eating high protein foods. b. Using acetaminophen without first discussing it with a healthcare provider c. Taking medications after eating dinner or while having a bedtime snack d. Buying a large coffee with sugar and extra cream each morning on the way to work
d. Buying a large coffee with sugar and extra cream each morning on the way to work
What is an essential difference between somatic symptom disorders and factitious disorders? a. Somatic symptom disorders are under voluntary control, whereas factitious disorders are unconscious and automatic. b. Factitious disorders are precipitated by psychological factors, whereas somatic symptom disorders are related to stress. c. Factitious disorders are individually determined and related to childhood sexual abuse, whereas somatic symptom disorders are culture bound. d. Factitious disorders are under voluntary control, whereas somatic symptom disorders involve expression of psychological stress through somatization.
d. Factitious disorders are under voluntary control, whereas somatic symptom disorders involve expression of psychological stress through somatization.
A soldier returned 3 months ago from Afghanistan and was diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which social event would be most disturbing for this soldier? a. Halloween festival with neighborhood children b. Singing carols around a Christmas tree c. A family outing to the seashore d. Fireworks display on July 4th
d. Fireworks display on July 4th The exploding noises associated with fireworks are likely to provoke exaggerated responses for this soldier. The distracters are not associated with offensive sounds.
A patient with fears of serious heart disease was referred to the mental health center by a cardiologist. Extensive diagnostic evaluation showed no physical illness. The patient says, "My chest is tight, and my heart misses beats. I'm often absent from work. I don't go out much because I need to rest." Which health problem is most likely? a. Dysthymic disorder b. Somatic symptom disorder c. Antisocial personality disorder d. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)
d. Illness anxiety disorder (hypochondriasis)
A soldier served in combat zones in Iraq during 2010 and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2013. When is it most important for the nurse to screen for signs and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? a. Immediately upon return to the U.S. from Afghanistan b. Before departing Afghanistan to return to the U.S. c. One year after returning from Afghanistan d. Screening should be on-going
d. Screening should be on-going PTSD can have a very long lag time, months to years. Screening should be on-going.
Therapeutic communication is the foundation of a patient-centered interview. Which of the following techniques is not considered therapeutic? a. restating b. encouraging description of perception c. summarizing d. asking why questions
d. asking why questions
Select the correct etiology to complete this nursing diagnosis for a patient 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. cognitive distortions associated with unresolved childhood abuse issues. Nearly all patients with dissociative identity disorder have a history of childhood abuse or trauma. None of the other etiology statements is relevant. See relationship to audience response question.
Four teenagers died in an automobile accident. One week later, which behavior by the parents of these teenagers most clearly demonstrates resilience? The parents who: a. visit their teenager's grave daily. b. return immediately to employment. c. discuss the accident within the family only. d. create a scholarship fund at their child's high school.
d. create a scholarship fund at their child's high school. Resilience refers to positive adaptation or the ability to maintain or regain mental health despite adversity. Loss of a child is among the highest-risk situations for maladaptive grieving. The parents who create a scholarship fund are openly expressing their feelings and memorializing their child. The other parents in this question are isolating themselves and/or denying their feelings. Visiting the grave daily shows active continued mourning but is not as strongly indicative of resilience as the correct response.
A nurse assessing a patient diagnosed with a somatic symptom disorder is most likely to note that the patient: a. sees a relationship between symptoms and interpersonal conflicts. b. has little difficulty communicating emotional needs to others. c. rarely derives personal benefit from the symptoms. d. has altered comfort and activity needs.
d. has altered comfort and activity needs.
To plan effective care for patients diagnosed with somatic symptom disorders, the nurse should understand that patients have difficulty giving up the symptoms because the symptoms: a. are generally chronic. b. have a physiological basis. c. can be voluntarily controlled. d. provide relief from health anxiety.
d. provide relief from health anxiety.
A child drowned while swimming in a local lake 2 years ago. Which behavior indicates the child's parents have adapted to their loss? The parents: a. visit their child's grave daily. b. maintain their child's room as the child left it 2 years ago. c. keep a place set for the dead child at the family dinner table. d. throw flowers on the lake at each anniversary date of the accident.
d. throw flowers on the lake at each anniversary date of the accident. Resilience refers to positive adaptation or the ability to maintain or regain mental health despite adversity. Loss of a child is among the highest-risk situations for an adjustment disorder and maladaptive grieving. The parents who throw flowers on the lake on each anniversary date of the accident are openly expressing their feelings. The other behaviors are maladaptive because of isolating themselves and/or denying their feelings. After 2 years, the frequency of visiting the grave should have decreased.
Which nursing statement is an example of reflection? a. I think this feeling will pass b. So you are saying that life has no meaning c. I'm not sure I understand what you meal d. You look sad
d. you look sad
A bipolar client tells the nurse, "I have the finest tenor voice in the world. The three tenors who do all those TV concerts are going to retire because they can't compete with me." The nurse would make the assessment that the client is displaying flight of ideas. distractibility. limit testing. grandiosity.
grandiosity. Exaggerated belief in one's own importance, identity, or capabilities is seen with grandiosity.REF: 233-234
An outcome for a manic client during the acute phase that would indicate that the treatment plan was successful would be that the client reports racing thoughts. is free of injury. is highly distractible. ignores food and fluid.
is free of injury. Risk for injury is a diagnosis of high priority for manic clients because of their hyperactivity. Lack of injury is a highly desirable outcome.REF: 234
The first-line drug used to treat mania is lithium carbonate (Lithium). carbamazepine (Tegretol). lamotrigine (Lamictal). clonazepam (Klonopin).
lithium carbonate (Lithium). Lithium, a mood stabilizer, is the first-line drug for use in treating bipolar disorder.REF: 230
A desirable short-term goal for the nursing diagnosis Defensive coping related to biochemical changes as evidenced by aggressive verbal and physical behaviors would be making no attempts at self-harm within 12 hours of admission. sleeping soundly for 12 of the next 24 hours. willingly taking prescribed medication as offered by staff within 24 hours of admission. demonstrating psychomotor retardation associated with sedation from prescribed medication within 6 hours of admission.
making no attempts at self-harm within 12 hours of admission. Whenever aggressive verbal or physical behaviors are demonstrated, a desirable goal is cessation of those behaviors. Verbal and physical aggression are most apt to occur when staff are trying to structure the client's behavior for his or her own safety or the safety of others.REF: Page 234-235
When a client experiences four or more mood episodes in a 12-month period, the client is said to be dyssynchronous. incongruent. cyclothymic. rapid cycling.
rapid cycling. Rapid cycling implies four or more mood episodes in a 12-month period, as well as more severe symptomatology.REF: 228
The priority nursing diagnosis for a hyperactive manic client during the acute phase is risk for injury. ineffective role performance. risk for other-directed violence. impaired verbal communication.
risk for injury. Risk for injury is high, related to the client's hyperactivity and poor judgment.REF: Page 234-2
When a hyperactive manic client expresses the intent to strike another client, the initial nursing intervention would be to question the client's motive. set verbal limits. initiate physical confrontation. prepare the client for seclusion.
set verbal limits. Verbal limit setting should always precede more restrictive measures.REF: 233-234
To plan care for a manic client the nurse must consider that lithium cannot be started until the physical examination and laboratory tests are analyzed. the initial doses of antipsychotic medication have brought behavior under control. seclusion has proven ineffective as a means of controlling assaultive behavior. electroconvulsive therapy can be scheduled to coincide with lithium administration.
the physical examination and laboratory tests are analyzed. Lithium should not be given to clients with impaired renal or thyroid function. A thorough physical examination and various laboratory tests are necessary to rule out other organic causes for the behavior and to ensure that the lithium can be excreted normally.REF: Page 240-241
When the wife of a manic client asks about genetic transmission of bipolar disorder, the nurse's answer should be predicated on the knowledge that no research exists to suggest genetic transmission. much depends on the socioeconomic class of the individuals. highly creative people tend toward development of the disorder. the rate of bipolar disorder is higher in relatives of people with bipolar disorder.
the rate of bipolar disorder is higher in relatives of people with bipolar disorder. This understanding will allow the nurse to directly address the question. Responses based on the other statements would be tangential or untrue.REF: Page 229-230
When a client reports that lithium causes an upset stomach, the nurse suggests taking the medication: with meals with an antacid 30 minutes before meals 2 hours after meals
with meals Many clients find that taking lithium with or shortly after meals minimizes gastric distress.REF: 240-241
An acute phase nursing intervention aimed at reducing hyperactivity is redirecting the client to write in a diary. exercise in the gym. direct unit activities. orient a new client to the unit.
write in a diary. Manic clients often respond well to the invitation to write. They will fill reams of paper. While writing they are less physically active.REF: Page 235-236