Mental Health Unit III (CH 12 and 23): questions from Quizlet, online resources, end of chapter, and HESI review

7. Which assessment finding would be likely for a patient experiencing a hallucination? The patient: a. looks at shadows on a wall and says, I see scary faces. b. states, I feel bugs crawling on my legs and biting me. c. reports telepathic messages from the television. d. speaks in rhymes.

ANS: B A hallucination is a false sensory perception occurring without a corresponding sensory stimulus. Feeling bugs on the body when none are present is a tactile hallucination. Misinterpreting shadows as faces is an illusion. An illusion is a misinterpreted sensory perception. The other incorrect options apply to thought insertion and clang associations.

12. Consider these diagnostic findings: apolipoprotein E (apoE) malfunction, neurofibrillary tangles, neuronal degeneration in the hippocampus, and brain atrophy. Which health problem corresponds to these diagnostic findings? a. Huntingtons disease b. Alzheimers disease c. Parkinsons disease d. Vascular dementia

ANS: B All of the options relate to dementias; however, the pathophysiological phenomena described apply to Alzheimers disease. Parkinsons disease is associated with dopamine dysregulation. Huntingtons disease is genetic. Vascular dementia is the consequence of circulatory changes.

5. What is the priority intervention for a patient diagnosed with delirium who has fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alterations? a. Distraction using sensory stimulation b. Careful observation and supervision c. Avoidance of physical contact d. Activation of the bed alarm

ANS: B Careful observation and supervision are of ultimate importance because an appropriate outcome would be that the patient will remain safe and free from injury. Physical contact during care cannot be avoided. Activating a bed alarm is only one aspect of providing for the patients safety.

6. A patients care plan includes monitoring for auditory hallucinations. Which assessment findings suggest the patient may be hallucinating? a. Detachment and overconfidence b. Darting eyes, tilted head, mumbling to self c. Euphoric mood, hyperactivity, distractibility d. Foot tapping and repeatedly writing the same phrase

ANS: B Clues to hallucinations include eyes looking around the room as though to find the speaker, tilting the head to one side as though listening intently, and grimacing, mumbling, or talking aloud as though responding conversationally to someone.

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

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

2. A newly admitted patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is hypervigilant and constantly scans the environment. The patient states, I saw two doctors talking in the hall. They were plotting to kill me. The nurse may correctly assess this behavior as: a. echolalia. b. an idea of reference. c. a delusion of infidelity. d. an auditory hallucination.

ANS: B Ideas of reference are misinterpretations of the verbalizations or actions of others that give special personal meanings to these behaviors; for example, when seeing two people talking, the individual assumes they are talking about him or her. The other terms do not correspond with the scenario.

Based on the current research, which patient is most likely to develop dementia? A. An office manager in a high-stress environment B. A former boxer and is now a trainer C. A worker in a factory where asbestos is found D. A bartender in a dark underground club/bar

B Brain injury and trauma are associated with a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. People who suffer repeated head trauma, such as boxers and football players, may be at greater risk. The other options do not specifically represent known risk.

Nico, a 22-year-old patient, is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which of the following symptoms would alert a provider to a possible diagnosis of schizophrenia in a 22-year-old male client? A. Excessive sleeping with disturbing dreams B. Hearing voices telling him to hurt his roommate C. Withdrawal from college because of failing grades D. Chaotic and dysfunctional relationships with his family and peers

B People diagnosed with schizophrenia all have at least one psychotic symptom such as hallucinations, delusional thinking, or disorganized speech. The other options do not describe schizophrenia but could be caused by a number of problems.

A client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia tells the nurse, "I have to get away. The volmers are coming to execute me." The term "volmers" can be assessed as A. a neologism. B. clang association. C. blocking. D. a delusion.

A A neologism is a newly coined word that has meaning only for the client. None of the other options fit this description.

Currently what is understood to be the causation of schizophrenia? A. A combination of inherited and nongenetic factors B. Deficient amounts of the neurotransmitter dopamine C. Excessive amounts of the neurotransmitter serotonin D. Stress related and ineffective stress management skills

A Causation is a complicated matter. Schizophrenia most likely occurs as a result of a combination of inherited genetic factors and extreme nongenetic factors (e.g., viral infection, birth injuries, nutritional factors) that can affect the genes governing the brain or directly injure the brain.

Which of the following would be assessed as a negative symptom of schizophrenia? A. Anhedonia B. Hostility C. Agitation D. Hallucinations

A Negative symptoms refer to deficits that characterize schizophrenia. They include the crippling symptoms of affective blunting (lack of facial expression), anergia (lack of energy), anhedonia (inability to experience happiness), avolition (lack of motivation), poverty of content of speech, poverty of speech, and thought blocking.

The most common course of schizophrenia is an initial episode followed by what course of events? A. Recurrent acute exacerbations and deterioration B. Recurrent acute exacerbations C. Continuous deterioration D. Complete recovery

A Schizophrenia is usually a disorder marked by an initial episode followed by recurrent acute exacerbations. With each relapse of psychosis, an increase in residual dysfunction and deterioration occurs.

30. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins to talks about "cracklomers" in the local shopping mall. The term "cracklomers" should be documented as: a. neologism. b. concrete thinking. c. thought insertion. d. an idea of reference.

ANS: A A neologism is a newly coined word having special meaning to the patient. "Cracklomers" is not a known word. Concrete thinking refers to the inability to think abstractly. Thought insertion refers to thoughts of others that are implanted in one's mind. An idea of reference is a type of delusion in which trivial events are given personal significance.

29. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins to talks about macnabs hiding in the warehouse at work. The term macnabs should be documented as: a. a neologism. b. concrete thinking. c. thought insertion. d. an idea of reference.

ANS: A A neologism is a newly coined word having special meaning to the patient. Macnabs is not a known common word. Concrete thinking refers to the inability to think abstractly. Thought insertion refers to thoughts of others are implanted in ones mind. Ideas of reference are a type of delusion in which trivial events are given personal significance.

27. The family of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is unfamiliar with the illness and familys role in recovery. Which type of therapy should the nurse recommend? a. Psychoeducational b. Psychoanalytic c. Transactional d. Family

ANS: A A psychoeducational group explores the causes of schizophrenia, the role of medication, the importance of medication compliance, support for the ill member, and hints for living with a person with schizophrenia. Such a group can be of immeasurable practical assistance to the family. The other types of therapy do not focus on psychoeducation.

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

ANS: A A quiet, shadow-free room offers an environment that produces the fewest sensory perceptual distortions for a patient with cognitive impairment associated with delirium. The other options have the potential to produce increased perceptual alterations.

17. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is very disturbed and violent. After several doses of haloperidol (Haldol), the patient is calm. Two hours later the nurse sees the patients head rotated to one side in a stiff position, the lower jaw thrust forward, and drooling. Which problem is most likely? a. An acute dystonic reaction b. Tardive dyskinesia c. Waxy flexibility d. Akathisia

ANS: A Acute dystonic reactions involve painful contractions of the tongue, face, neck, and back. Opisthotonos and oculogyric crisis may be observed. Dystonic reactions are considered emergencies requiring immediate intervention. Tardive dyskinesia involves involuntary spasmodic muscular contractions that involve the tongue, fingers, toes, neck, trunk, or pelvis. It appears after prolonged treatment. Waxy flexibility is a symptom seen in catatonic schizophrenia. Internal and external restlessness, pacing, and fidgeting are characteristics of akathisia.

33. A nurse asks a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia, What is meant by the old saying You cant judge a book by looking at the cover.? Which response by the patient indicates concrete thinking? a. The table of contents tells what a book is about. b. You cant judge a book by looking at the cover. c. Things are not always as they first appear. d. Why are you asking me about books?

ANS: A Concrete thinking refers to an impaired ability to think abstractly. Concreteness is often assessed through the patients interpretation of proverbs. Concreteness reduces ones ability to understand and address abstract concepts such as love or the passage of time. The incorrect options illustrate echolalia, an unrelated question, and abstract thinking.

1. An older adult patient takes multiple medications daily. Over 2 days, the patient developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. These findings are most characteristic of: a. delirium. b. dementia. c. amnestic syndrome. d. Alzheimers disease.

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

28. An elderly person presents with symptoms of delirium. The family reports, Everything was fine until yesterday. What is the most important assessment information for the nurse to gather? a. A list of all medications the person currently takes b. Whether the person has experienced any recent losses c. Whether the person has ingested aged or fermented foods d. The persons recent personality characteristics and changes

ANS: A Delirium is often the result of medication interactions or toxicity. The distracters relate to MAOI therapy and depression.

18. An acutely violent patient diagnosed with schizophrenia receives several doses of haloperidol (Haldol). Two hours later the nurse notices the patients head rotated to one side in a stiffly fixed position, the lower jaw thrust forward, and drooling. Which intervention by the nurse is indicated? a. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg IM from the PRN medication administration record. b. Reassure the patient that the symptoms will subside. Practice relaxation exercises with the patient. c. Give trihexyphenidyl (Artane) 5 mg orally at the next regularly scheduled medication administration time. d. Administer atropine sulfate 2 mg subcut from the PRN medication administration record.

ANS: A Diphenhydramine, trihexyphenidyl, benztropine, and other anticholinergic medications may be used to treat dystonias. Swallowing will be difficult or impossible; therefore, oral medication is not an option. Medication should be administered immediately, so the intramuscular route is best. In this case, the best option given is diphenhydramine.

25. An older adult is prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide daily as well as lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for anxiety. Over 2 days, the patient developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. What is the most likely reason for the patients change in mental status? a. Drug actions and interactions b. Benzodiazepine withdrawal c. Hypotensive episodes d. Renal failure

ANS: A Drug actions and interactions are common among elderly persons and predispose this population to delirium. Delirium is characterized by an abrupt onset of fluctuating levels of awareness, clouded consciousness, perceptual disturbances, and disturbed memory and orientation. The patient takes lorazepam on a PRN basis, so withdrawal is unlikely. Hypotensive episodes or problems with renal function may occur associated with the patients drug regime, but interactions are more likely the problem.

16. An older adult patient in the intensive care unit has visual and auditory illusions. Which intervention will be most helpful? a. Using the patients glasses and hearing aids b. Placing personally meaningful objects in view c. Placing large clocks and calendars on the wall d. Assuring that the room is brightly lit but very quiet at all times

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

5. A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia regarding the importance of medication management. The patient repeatedly says, "I don't like taking pills." Which treatment strategy should the nurse discuss with the health care provider? a. Use of a long-acting antipsychotic injections b. Addition of a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan) c. Adjunctive use of an antidepressant, such as amitriptyline (Elavil) d. Inpatient hospitalization because of the high risk for exacerbation of symptoms

ANS: A Medications such as fluphenazine decanoate and haloperidol decanoate are long-acting forms of antipsychotic medications. They are administered by depot injection every 2 to 4 weeks, thus reducing daily opportunities for nonadherence. The incorrect options do not address the patient's dislike of taking pills.

14. A patient has progressive memory deficits associated with dementia. Which nursing intervention would best help the individual function in the environment? a. Assist the patient to perform simple tasks by giving step-by-step directions. b. Reduce frustration by performing activities of daily living for the patient. c. Stimulate intellectual function by discussing new topics with the patient. d. Read one story from the newspaper to the patient every day.

ANS: A Patients with cognitive impairment should perform all tasks of which they are capable. When simple directions are given in a systematic fashion, the patient is better able to process information and perform simple tasks. Stimulating intellectual functioning by discussing new topics is likely to prove frustrating for the patient. Patients with cognitive deficits may enjoy the attention of someone reading to them, but this activity does not promote their function in the environment.

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

ANS: A Risk for injury is the nurses priority concern. Safety maintenance is the desired outcome. The other outcomes are lower priorities and may not be realistic.

13. A community mental health nurse wants to establish a relationship with a very withdrawn patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient lives at home with a supportive family. Select the nurses best plan. a. Visit daily for 4 days, then every other day for 1 week; stay with patient for 20 minutes, accept silence; state when the nurse will return. b. Arrange to spend 1 hour each day with the patient; focus on asking questions about what the patient is thinking or experiencing; avoid silences. c. Visit twice daily; sit beside the patient with a hand on the patients arm; leave if the patient does not respond within 10 minutes. d. Visit every other day; remind the patient of the nurses identity; encourage the patient to talk while the nurse works on reports.

ANS: A Severe constraints on the community mental health nurses time will probably not allow more time than what is mentioned in the correct option; yet, important principles can be used. A severely withdrawn patient should be met at the patients own level, with silence accepted. Short periods of contact are helpful to minimize both the patients and the nurses anxiety. Predictability in returning as stated will help build trust. An hour may be too long to sustain a home visit with a withdrawn patient, especially if the nurse persists in leveling a barrage of questions at the patient. Twice-daily visits are probably not possible, and leaving after 10 minutes would be premature. Touch may be threatening. Working on reports suggests the nurse is not interested in the patient.

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

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

12. A patient is experiencing delusions of persecution about being poisoned. The patient has refused all hospital meals for 3 days. Which intervention is most likely to be acceptable to the patient? a. Allowing the patient supervised access to food vending machines b. Allowing the patient to phone a local restaurant to deliver meals c. Offering to taste each portion on the tray for the patient d. Providing tube feedings or total parenteral nutrition

ANS: A The patient who is delusional about food being poisoned is likely to believe restaurant food might still be poisoned and to say that the staff member tasting the food has taken an antidote to the poison before tasting. Attempts to tube feed or give nutrition intravenously are seen as aggressive and usually promote violence. Patients perceive foods in sealed containers, packages, or natural shells as being safer.

21. An older adult with moderately severe dementia forgets where the bathroom is and has episodes of incontinence. Which intervention should the nurse suggest to the patients family? a. Label the bathroom door. b. Take the older adult to the bathroom hourly. c. Place the older adult in disposable adult briefs. d. Limit the intake of oral fluids to 1000 ml per day.

ANS: A The patient with moderately severe dementia has memory loss that begins to interfere with activities. This patient may be able to use environmental cues such as labels on doors to compensate for memory loss. Regular toileting may be helpful, but a 2-hour schedule is often more reasonable. Placing the patient in disposable briefs is more appropriate at a later stage. Severely limiting oral fluid intake would predispose the patient to a urinary tract infection.

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

ANS: A The physical safety of the patient is of highest priority among the diagnoses given. Many opportunities for injury exist when a patient misperceives the environment as distorted, threatening, or harmful or when the patient exercises poor judgment or when the patients sensorium is clouded. The other diagnoses may be concerns, but are lower priorities.

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

ANS: A The problems are all aspects of the pathophysiologic characteristics of Alzheimer disease.

4. When a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia was discharged 6 months ago, haloperidol (Haldol) was prescribed. The patient now says, I stopped taking those pills. They made me feel like a robot. What are common side effects the nurse should validate with the patient? a. Sedation and muscle stiffness b. Sweating, nausea, and diarrhea c. Mild fever, sore throat, and skin rash d. Headache, watery eyes, and runny nose

ANS: A Typical antipsychotic drugs often produce sedation and extrapyramidal side effects such as stiffness and gait disturbance, effects the patient might describe as making him or her feel like a robot. The side effects mentioned in the other options are usually not associated with typical antipsychotic therapy or would not have the effect described by the patient.

22. What assessment findings mark the prodromal stage of schizophrenia? a. Withdrawal, misinterpreting, poor concentration, and preoccupation with religion b. Auditory hallucinations, ideas of reference, thought insertion, and broadcasting c. Stereotyped behavior, echopraxia, echolalia, and waxy flexibility d. Loose associations, concrete thinking, and echolalia neologisms

ANS: A Withdrawal, misinterpreting, poor concentration, and preoccupation with religion are prodromal symptoms, the symptoms that are present before the development of florid symptoms. The incorrect options each list the positive symptoms of schizophrenia that might be apparent during the acute stage of the illness.

38. A newly hospitalized patient experiencing psychosis says, Red chair out town board. Which term should the nurse use to document this finding? a. Word salad b. Neologism c. Anhedonia d. Echolalia

ANS: A Word salad (schizophasia) is a jumble of words that is meaningless to the listener and perhaps to the speaker as well, because of an extreme level of disorganization.

2. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia was hospitalized after arguing with co-workers and threatening to harm them. The patient is aloof, suspicious, and says, Two staff members I saw talking were plotting to kill me. Based on data gathered at this point, which nursing diagnoses relate? Select all that apply. a. Risk for other-directed violence b. Disturbed thought processes c. Risk for loneliness d. Spiritual distress e. Social isolation

ANS: A, B Delusions of persecution and ideas of reference support the nursing diagnosis of disturbed thought processes. Risk for other-directed violence is substantiated by the patients feeling endangered by persecutors. Fearful individuals may strike out at perceived persecutors or attempt self-harm to get away from persecutors. Data are not present to support the other diagnoses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The family members of a patient newly diagnosed with schizophrenia state that they do not understand what has caused the illness. The nurse's response should be based on which models? Select all that apply. a. Neurobiological b. Environmental c. Family theory d. Genetic e. Stress

ANS: A, D Compelling evidence exists that schizophrenia is a neurologic disorder probably related to neurochemical abnormalities, neuroanatomical disruption of brain circuits, and genetic vulnerability. Stress and family disruption may contribute but are not considered etiologic factors. Environmental factors are not recognized as causative variables in schizophrenia.

1. A nurse at the mental health clinic plans a series of psychoeducational groups for persons newly diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which two topics take priority? a. The importance of taking your medication correctly b. How to complete an application for employment c. How to dress when attending community events d. How to give and receive compliments e. Ways to quit smoking

ANS: A, E Stabilization is maximized by adherence to the antipsychotic medication regimen. Because so many persons with schizophrenia smoke cigarettes, this topic relates directly to the patients physiological well-being. The other topics are also important but are not priority topics.

3. Which nursing diagnoses are most applicable for a patient diagnosed with severe Alzheimers disease? Select all that apply. a. Acute confusion b. Anticipatory grieving c. Urinary incontinence d. Disturbed sleep pattern e. Risk for caregiver role strain

ANS: C, D, E The correct answers are consistent with problems frequently identified for patients with late-stage Alzheimers disease. Confusion is chronic, not acute. The patients cognition is too impaired to grieve.

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

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

24. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins a new prescription for lurasidone HCL (Latuda). The patient is 56 and currently weighs 204 lbs. Which topic is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan related to this medication? a. How to recognize tardive dyskinesia b. Weight management strategies c. Ways to manage constipation d. Sleep hygiene measures

ANS: B Lurasidone HCL (Latuda) is a second-generation antipsychotic medication. The incidence of weight gain, diabetes, and high cholesterol is high with this medication. The patient is overweight now, so weight management will be especially important. The incidence of tardive dyskinesia is low with second-generation antipsychotic medications. Constipation may occur, but it is less important than weight management. This drug usually produces drowsiness.

37. A patient insistently states, I can decipher codes of DNA just by looking at someone. Which problem is evident? a. Visual hallucinations b. Magical thinking c. Idea of reference d. Thought insertion

ANS: B Magical thinking is evident in the patients appraisal of his own abilities. There is no evidence of the distracters.

13. A patient with stage 3 Alzheimers disease tires easily and prefers to stay home rather than attend social activities. The spouse does the grocery shopping because the patient cannot remember what to buy. Which nursing diagnosis applies at this time? a. Self-care deficit b. Impaired memory c. Caregiver role strain d. Adult failure to thrive

ANS: B Memory impairment begins at stage 2 and progresses in stage 3. This patient is able to perform most self-care activities. Caregiver role strain and adult failure to thrive occur later.

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

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

26. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken a conventional antipsychotic medication for a year. Hallucinations are less intrusive, but the patient continues to have apathy, poverty of thought, and social isolation. The nurse would expect a change to which medication? a. Haloperidol (Haldol) b. Olanzapine (Zyprexa) c. Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) d. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

ANS: B Olanzapine is a second-generation atypical antipsychotic that targets both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Haloperidol and chlorpromazine are conventional antipsychotics that target only positive symptoms. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine.

10. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia demonstrates little spontaneous movement and has waxy flexibility. The patients activities of daily living are severely compromised. An appropriate outcome would be that the patient will: a. demonstrate increased interest in the environment by the end of week 1. b. perform self-care activities with coaching by the end of day 3. c. gradually take the initiative for self-care by the end of week 2. d. accept tube feeding without objection by day 2.

ANS: B Outcomes related to self-care deficit nursing diagnoses should deal with increasing ability to perform self-care tasks independently, such as feeding, bathing, dressing, and toileting. Performing the tasks with coaching by nursing staff denotes improvement over the complete inability to perform the tasks. The incorrect options are not directly related to self-care activities, difficult to measure, and unrelated to maintenance of nutrition.

22. Which symptoms are expected for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who has disorganization? a. Extremes of motor activity, from excitement to stupor b. Social withdrawal and ineffective communication c. Severe anxiety with ritualistic behavior d. Highly suspicious, delusional behavior

ANS: B Patients with disorganization demonstrate the most regressed and socially impaired behaviors. Communication is often incoherent, with silly giggling and loose associations predominating. Highly suspicious, delusional behavior relates more to paranoia. Extremes of motor activity, from excitement to stupor, relate to catatonia. Severe anxiety and ritualistic behaviors relate to obsessive-compulsive disorder.

19. A nurse counsels the family of a patient diagnosed with Alzheimers disease who lives at home and wanders at night. Which action is most important for the nurse to recommend to enhance safety? a. Apply a medical alert bracelet to the patient. b. Place locks at the tops of doors. c. Discourage daytime napping. d. Obtain a bed with side rails.

ANS: B Placing door locks at the top of the door makes it more difficult for the patient with dementia to unlock the door because the ability to look up and reach upward is diminished. The patient will try to climb over side rails, increasing the risk for injury and falls. Avoiding daytime naps may improve the patients sleep pattern but does not assure safety. A medical alert bracelet will be helpful if the patient leaves the home, but it does not prevent wandering or assure the patients safety.

17. A patient diagnosed with Alzheimers disease calls the fire department saying, My smoke detectors are going off. Firefighters investigate and discover that the patient misinterpreted the telephone ringing. Which problem is this patient experiencing? a. Hyperorality b. Aphasia c. Apraxia d. Agnosia

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

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

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

1. A person has had difficulty keeping a job because of arguing with co-workers and accusing them of conspiracy. Today the person shouts, Theyre all plotting to destroy me. Isnt that true? Select the nurses most therapeutic response. a. Everyone here is trying to help you. No one wants to harm you. b. Feeling that people want to destroy you must be very frightening. c. That is not true. People here are trying to help you if you will let them. d. Staff members are health care professionals who are qualified to help you.

ANS: B Resist focusing on content; instead, focus on the feelings the patient is expressing. This strategy prevents arguing about the reality of delusional beliefs. Such arguments increase patient anxiety and the tenacity with which the patient holds to the delusion. The other options focus on content and provide opportunity for argument.

19. A patient took trifluoperazine 30 mg po daily for 3 years. The clinic nurse notes that the patient grimaces and constantly smacks both lips. The patients neck and shoulders twist in a slow, snakelike motion. Which problem would the nurse suspect? a. Agranulocytosis b. Tardive dyskinesia c. Tourettes syndrome d. Anticholinergic effects

ANS: B Tardive dyskinesia is a neuroleptic-induced condition involving the face, trunk, and limbs. Involuntary movements, such as tongue thrusting; licking; blowing; irregular movements of the arms, neck, and shoulders; rocking; hip jerks; and pelvic thrusts, are seen. These symptoms are frequently not reversible even when the drug is discontinued. The scenario does not present evidence consistent with the other disorders mentioned. Agranulocytosis is a blood disorder. Tourettes syndrome is a condition in which tics are present. Anticholinergic effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, flushing, constipation, and dry eyes.

5. Which hallucination necessitates the nurse to implement safety measures? The patient says, a. I hear angels playing harps. b. The voices say everyone is trying to kill me. c. My dead father tells me I am a good person. d. The voices talk only at night when Im trying to sleep.

ANS: B The correct response indicates the patient is experiencing paranoia. Paranoia often leads to fearfulness, and the patient may attempt to strike out at others to protect self. The distracters are comforting hallucinations or do not indicate paranoia.

8. Consider these health problems: Lewy body disease, frontal-temporal lobar degeneration, and Huntingtons disease. Which term unifies these problems? a. Cyclothymia b. Dementia c. Delirium d. Amnesia

ANS: B The listed health problems are all forms of dementia.

35. A client says, Facebook has a new tracking capacity. If I use the Internet, Homeland Security will detain me as a terrorist. Select the nurses best initial action. a. Tell the client, Facebook is a safe website. You dont need to worry about Homeland Security. b. Tell the client, You are in a safe place where you will be helped. c. Administer a prn dose of an antipsychotic medication. d. Tell the client, You dont need to worry about that.

ANS: B The patient is experiencing paranoia and delusional thinking, which leads to fear. Explaining that the patient is in a safe place will help relieve the fear. It is not therapeutic to disagree or give advice. Medication will not relieve the immediate concern.

3. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, My co-workers are out to get me. I also saw two doctors plotting to kill me. How does this patient perceive the environment? a. Disorganized b. Dangerous c. Supportive d. Bizarre

ANS: B The patient sees the world as hostile and dangerous. This assessment is important because the nurse can be more effective by using empathy to respond to the patient. Data are not present to support any of the other options.

27. An elderly patient is admitted with delirium secondary to a urinary tract infection. The family asks whether the patient will ever recover. Select the nurses best response. a. The health care provider is the best person to answer your question. b. The confusion will probably get better as we treat the infection. c. Unfortunately, delirium is a progressively disabling disorder. d. I will be glad to contact the chaplain to talk with you.

ANS: B Usually, as the underlying cause of the delirium is treated, the symptoms of delirium clear. The distracters mislead the family.

11. A nurse observes a catatonic patient standing immobile, facing the wall with one arm extended in a salute. The patient remains immobile in this position for 15 minutes, moving only when the nurse gently lowers the arm. What is the name of this phenomenon? a. Echolalia c. Depersonalization b. Waxy flexibility c. Depersonalization d. Thought withdrawal

ANS: B Waxy flexibility is the ability to hold distorted postures for extended periods of time, as though the patient were molded in wax. Echolalia is a speech pattern. Depersonalization refers to a feeling state. Thought withdrawal refers to an alteration in thinking.

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

ANS: C Agnosia refers to the loss of sensory ability to recognize objects. Aphasia refers to the loss of language ability. Apraxia refers to the loss of purposeful movement. Anhedonia refers to a loss of joy in life.

29. A nurse gives anticipatory guidance to the family of a patient diagnosed with stage 3, mild cognitive decline, Alzheimers disease. Which problem common to that stage should the nurse address? a. Violent outbursts b. Emotional disinhibition c. Communication deficits d. Inability to feed or bathe self

ANS: C Families should be made aware that the patient will have difficulty concentrating and following or carrying on in-depth or lengthy conversations. The other symptoms are usually seen at later stages of the disease.

11. An older adult drove to a nearby store but was unable to remember how to get home or state an address. When police intervened, they found that this adult was wearing a heavy coat and hat, even though it was July. Which stage of Alzheimers disease is evident? a. Preclinical Alzheimers disease b. Mild cognitive decline c. Moderately severe cognitive decline d. Severe cognitive decline

ANS: C In the moderately severe stage, deterioration is evident. Memory loss may include the inability to remember addresses or the date. Activities such as driving may become hazardous, and frustration by the increasing difficulty of performing ordinary tasks may be experienced. The individual has difficulty with clothing selection. Mild cognitive decline (early-stage) Alzheimers can be diagnosed in some, but not all, individuals. Symptoms include misplacing items and misuse of words.In the stage of severe cognitive decline, personality changes may take place, and the patient needs extensive help with daily activities. This patient has symptoms, so the preclinical stage does not apply.

9. Which medication prescribed to patients diagnosed with Alzheimers disease antagonizes N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) channels rather than cholinesterase? a. Donepezil (Aricept) b. Rivastigmine (Exelon) c. Memantine (Namenda) d. Galantamine (Razadyne)

ANS: C Memantine blocks the NMDA channels and is used in moderate-to-late stages of the disease. Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine are all cholinesterace inhibitors. These drugs increase the availability of acetylcholine and are most often used to treat mild-to-moderate Alzheimers disease.

21. The nurse assesses a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which assessment finding would the nurse regard as a negative symptom of schizophrenia? a. Auditory hallucinations b. Delusions of grandeur c. Poor personal hygiene d. Psychomotor agitation

ANS: C Negative symptoms include apathy, anhedonia, poor social functioning, and poverty of thought. Poor personal hygiene is an example of poor social functioning. The distracters are positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

36. Which finding constitutes a negative symptom associated with schizophrenia? a. Hostility b. Bizarre behavior c. Poverty of thought d. Auditory hallucinations

ANS: C Negative symptoms include apathy, anhedonia, poor social functioning, and poverty of thought. Poor personal hygiene is an example of poor social functioning. The distracters are positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

9. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia exhibits little spontaneous movement and demonstrates waxy flexibility. Which patient needs are of priority importance? a. Self-esteem b. Psychosocial c. Physiological d. Self-actualization

ANS: C Physiological needs must be met to preserve life. A patient with waxy flexibility must be fed by hand or tube, toileted, given range-of-motion exercises, and so forth to preserve physiological integrity. Higher level needs are of lesser concern.

16. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken fluphenazine (Prolixin) 5 mg po bid for 3 weeks. The nurse now observes a shuffling propulsive gait, a mask-like face, and drooling. Which term applies to these symptoms? a. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome b. Hepatocellular effects c. Pseudoparkinsonism d. Akathisia

ANS: C Pseudoparkinsonism induced by antipsychotic medication mimics the symptoms of Parkinsons disease. It frequently appears within the first month of treatment and is more common with first-generation antipsychotic drugs. Hepatocellular effects would produce abnormal liver test results. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by autonomic instability. Akathisia produces motor restlessness.

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

ANS: C Separating and distracting prevents escalation from verbal to physical acting out. Neither patient loses self-esteem during this intervention. Medication probably is not necessary. Stepping between two angry, threatening patients is an unsafe action, and trying to reinforce reality during an angry outburst will probably not be successful when the patients are cognitively impaired.

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

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

15. A newly admitted patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, The voices are bothering me. They yell and tell me I am bad. I have got to get away from them. Select the nurses most helpful reply. a. Do you hear the voices often? b. Do you have a plan for getting away from the voices? c. Ill stay with you. Focus on what we are talking about, not the voices. d. Forget the voices and ask some other patients to play cards with you.

ANS: C Staying with a distraught patient who is hearing voices serves several purposes: ongoing observation, the opportunity to provide reality orientation, a means of helping dismiss the voices, the opportunity of forestalling an action that would result in self-injury, and general support to reduce anxiety. Asking if the patient hears voices is not particularly relevant at this point. Asking if the patient plans to get away from the voices is relevant for assessment purposes but is less helpful than offering to stay with the patient while encouraging a focus on their discussion. Suggesting playing cards with other patients shifts responsibility for intervention from the nurse to the patient and other patients.

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

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

7. A health care provider considers which antipsychotic medication to prescribe for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who has auditory hallucinations and poor social function. The patient is also overweight and hypertensive. Which drug should the nurse advocate? a. Clozapine (Clozaril) b. Ziprasidone (Geodon) c. Olanzapine (Zyprexa) d. Aripiprazole (Abilify)

ANS: D Aripiprazole is a third-generation atypical antipsychotic effective against both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. It causes little or no weight gain and no increase in glucose, high- or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or triglycerides, making it a reasonable choice for a patient with obesity or heart disease. Clozapine may produce agranulocytosis, making it a poor choice as a first-line agent. Ziprasidone may prolong the QT interval, making it a poor choice for a patient with cardiac disease. Olanzapine fosters weight gain.

34. The nurse is developing a plan for psychoeducational sessions for several adults diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which goal is best for this group? Members will: a. gain insight into unconscious factors that contribute to their illness. b. explore situations that trigger hostility and anger. c. learn to manage delusional thinking. d. demonstrate improved social skills.

ANS: D Improved social skills help patients maintain relationships with others. These relationships are important to management of the disorder. Most patients with schizophrenia think concretely, so insight development is unlikely. Not all patients with schizophrenia experience delusions.

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

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

31. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations anxiously tells the nurse, The voice is telling me to do things. Select the nurses priority assessment question. a. How long has the voice been directing your behavior? b. Does what the voice tell you to do frighten you? c. Do you recognize the voice speaking to you? d. What is the voice telling you to do?

ANS: D Learning what a command hallucination is telling the patient to do is important because the command often places the patient or others at risk for harm. Command hallucinations can be terrifying and may pose a psychiatric emergency. The incorrect questions are of lesser importance than identifying the command.

26. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, "High heat. Last time here. Did you get a coat?" What type of verbalization is evident? a. Neologism b. Idea of reference c. Thought broadcasting d. Associative looseness

ANS: D Looseness of association refers to jumbled thoughts incoherently expressed to the listener. Neologisms are newly coined words. Ideas of reference are a type of delusion. Thought broadcasting is the belief that others can hear one's thoughts.

25. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, Its beat. Time to eat. No room for the cat. What type of verbalization is evident? a. Neologism b. Idea of reference c. Thought broadcasting d. Associative looseness

ANS: D Looseness of association refers to jumbled thoughts incoherently expressed to the listener. Neologisms are newly coined words. Ideas of reference are a type of delusion. Thought broadcasting is the belief that others can hear ones thoughts.

25. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has paranoid thinking. The patient angrily tells a nurse, "You are mean and nasty. No one trusts you or wants to be around you." Select the most likely analysis. The patient: a. is trying to manipulate the nurse by using negative comments. b. is likely to experience disorganization and catatonia in the near future. c. is jealous of the nurse's position of power in the relationship. d. may be identifying another person's shortcomings in order to preserve his or her own self-esteem.

ANS: D Patients with paranoid ideation often use disparaging comments to preserve one's own self-esteem. There is no evidence the patient is trying to manipulate the nurse or is jealous. This behavior is not predictive of catatonia or disorganization.

28. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been stable for a year; however, the family now reports the patient is tense, sleeps 3 to 4 hours per night, and has difficulty concentrating. The patient says, My computer is sending out infected radiation beams. The nurse can correctly assess this information as an indication of: a. the need for psychoeducation. b. medication noncompliance. c. chronic deterioration. d. relapse.

ANS: D Signs of potential relapse include feeling tense, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, increased withdrawal, and increased bizarre or magical thinking. Medication noncompliance may not be implicated. Relapse can occur even when the patient is taking medication regularly. Psychoeducation is more effective when the patients symptoms are stable. Chronic deterioration is not the best explanation.

32. A patient receiving risperidone (Risperdal) reports severe muscle stiffness at 1030. By 1200, the patient has difficulty swallowing and is drooling. By 1600, vital signs are 102.8 F; pulse 110; respirations 26; 150/90. The patient is diaphoretic. Select the nurses best analysis and action. a. Agranulocytosis; institute reverse isolation. b. Tardive dyskinesia; withhold the next dose of medication. c. Cholestatic jaundice; begin a high-protein, high-cholesterol diet. d. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome; notify health care provider stat.

ANS: D Taking an antipsychotic medication coupled with the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms, such as severe muscle stiffness and difficulty swallowing, hyperpyrexia, and autonomic symptoms (pulse elevation), suggest neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a medical emergency. The symptoms given in the scenario are not consistent with the medical problems listed in the incorrect options.

A 78-year-old patient diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease picks up a glass from the bedside table but does not recognize the purpose of the object. This inability is associated with which characteristic of the disorder? A. Apraxia B. Agnosia C. Aphasia D. Agraphia

B Agnosia is the loss of sensory ability to recognize objects. Apraxia is the loss of purposeful movement in the absence of motor or sensory impairment. Aphasia is the loss of language ability. Agraphia is the loss of the ability to read or write.

12. Which patient diagnosed with schizophrenia would be expected to have the lowest level of overall functioning? a. 39 years old; paranoid ideation since age 35 years b. 32 years old; isolated episodes of catatonia since age 24 years; stable for 3 years c. 19 years old; diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder 6 months ago d. 40 years old; frequent relapses since age 18; often does not take medication as prescribed

ANS: D The 40-year-old patient who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia since 18 years of age could logically be expected to have the lowest overall level of functioning secondary to deterioration associated with frequent relapses. The 39-year-old patient who has had paranoid ideation since 35 years of age could be expected to have a higher level because schizophrenia of short duration may be less impairing than other types. The patient who has had episodes of catatonia since the age of 24 years has been stable for more than 3 years, suggesting a higher functional ability. The 19-year-old patient diagnosed with schizophreniform disorder has been ill for only 6 months, and disability is likely to be minimal.

30. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia anxiously says, I can see the left side of my body merging with the wall, then my face appears and disappears in the mirror. While listening, the nurse should: a. sit close to the patient. b. place an arm protectively around the patients shoulders. c. place a hand on the patients arm and exert light pressure. d. maintain a normal social interaction distance from the patient.

ANS: D The patient is describing phenomena that indicate personal boundary difficulties and depersonalization. The nurse should maintain appropriate social distance and not touch the patient because the patient is anxious about the inability to maintain ego boundaries and merging or being swallowed by the environment. Physical closeness or touch could precipitate panic.

20. A nurse sits with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient starts to laugh uncontrollably, although the nurse has not said anything funny. Select the nurses best response. a. Why are you laughing? b. Please share the joke with me. c. I dont think I said anything funny. d. Youre laughing. Tell me whats happening.

ANS: D The patient is likely laughing in response to inner stimuli, such as hallucinations or fantasy. Focus on the hallucinatory clue (the patients laughter) and then elicit the patients observation. The incorrect options are less useful in eliciting a response: no joke may be involved, why questions are difficult to answer, and the patient is probably not focusing on what the nurse said in the first place.

23. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, Contagious bacteria are everywhere. When they get in your body, you will be locked up with other infected people. Which problem is evident? a. Poverty of content b. Concrete thinking c. Neologisms d. Paranoia

ANS: D The patients unrealistic fear of harm indicates paranoia. Neologisms are invented words. Concrete thinking involves literal interpretation. Poverty of content refers to an inadequate fund of information.

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

ANS: D Therapeutic communication techniques can assist the family to come to terms with the losses and irreversibility dementia imposes on both the loved one and themselves. Two incorrect responses close communication. The nurse should take the opportunity to foster communication. Consciousness does not fluctuate in patients with dementia.

8. A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia tells the nurse, I eat skiller. Tend to end. Easter. It blows away. Get it? Select the nurses best response. a. Nothing you are saying is clear. b. Your thoughts are very disconnected. c. Try to organize your thoughts and then tell me again. d. I am having difficulty understanding what you are saying.

ANS: D When a patients speech is loosely associated, confused, and disorganized, pretending to understand is useless. The nurse should tell the patient that he or she is having difficulty understanding what the patient is saying. If a theme is discernible, ask the patient to talk about the theme. The incorrect options tend to place blame for the poor communication with the patient. The correct response places the difficulty with the nurse rather than being accusatory.

14. Withdrawn patients diagnosed with schizophrenia: a. are usually violent toward caregivers. b. universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. c. exhibit a high degree of hostility as evidenced by rejecting behavior. d. avoid relationships because they become anxious with emotional closeness.

ANS: D When an individual is suspicious and distrustful and perceives the world and the people in it as potentially dangerous, withdrawal into an inner world can be a defense against uncomfortable levels of anxiety. When someone attempts to establish a relationship with such a patient, the patients anxiety rises until trust is established. There is no evidence that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. In most cases, it is untrue that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia are commonly violent or exhibit a high degree of hostility by demonstrating rejecting behavior.

3. A patient with fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alteration begs, Someone get these bugs off me. What is the nurses best response? a. No bugs are on your legs. You are having hallucinations. b. I will have someone stay here and brush off the bugs for you. c. Try to relax. The crawling sensation will go away sooner if you can relax. d. I dont see any bugs, but I can tell you are frightened. I will stay with you.

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

A 72-year-old patient is hospitalized diagnosed with pneumonia and experiencing delirium. When the client points to the IV pole and screams, "Get him out of here! He's going to hurt me!", the nurse recognizes the response as a(n) A. hallucination. B. delusion. C. illusion. D. confabulation.

C Illusions are errors in perception of sensory stimuli. The stimulus is a real object in the environment; however, it is misinterpreted and often becomes the object of the patient's projected fear. Hallucinations are false sensory stimuli. For example, individuals experiencing delirium may become terrified when they "see" giant spiders crawling over the bedclothes or "feel" bugs crawling on or under their bodies. A delusion is described as thinking or believing something that is not true and is seen more often in schizophrenia. For example, a patient may firmly believe that government agencies can read and are monitoring his or her thoughts or that neighbors can see him or her through walls. Confabulation is the creation of stories or answers in place of actual memories to maintain self-esteem.

A teenaged client is being discharged from the psychiatric unit with a prescription for risperidone. The nurse providing medication teaching to the client's mother should provide which response when asked about the risk her son faces for extrapyramidal side effects (EPSs)? A. All antipsychotic medications have an equal chance of producing EPSs. B. Newer antipsychotic medications have a higher risk for EPSs. C. Risperidone is a newer antipsychotic medication and has a lower risk of EPSs than older antipsychotics. D. Advise the mother to ask the provider to change the medication to clozapine instead of risperidone.

C Risperidone is a newer, atypical antipsychotic. All newer antipsychotic medications have a lower incidence of EPSs than older, traditional antipsychotics. The other responses are untrue. There is no reason to advise a medication change at this time.

The nurse is planning long-term goals for a 17-year-old male client recently diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which statement should serve as the basis for the goal-setting process? A. If treated quickly following diagnosis, schizophrenia can be cured. B. Schizophrenia can be managed by receiving treatment only at the time of acute exacerbations. C. Patients with schizophrenia often do not fully respond to treatment and have residual symptoms and varying degrees of disability. D. If patients with schizophrenia stay on their drug regimen, they usually lead fully productive lives with no further symptoms.

C Unfortunately, in most cases, schizophrenia does not respond fully to available treatments; it leaves residual symptoms and causes varying degrees of dysfunction or disability. The other options are all untrue of schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is best characterized as presenting which personality trait? A. Split B. Multiple C. Ambivalent D. Deteriorating

D The course of schizophrenia is marked by recurrent acute exacerbations. With each relapse of psychosis, an increase in residual dysfunction and deterioration occurs.

A 62-year-old patient who is recovering from a urinary tract infection that has required hospitalized for delirium. Based on research regarding possible postdelirium complications, what are important areas for the provider to assess regularly after discharge? A. Sleeping habits B. Sexual functioning C. Symptoms of posttraumatic stress D. Depression and level of cognition

D Although delirium is usually a short-term condition, it may have long-term consequences. In patients with preexisting cognitive impairment, there is an acceleration of cognitive decline. Although there are reports of long-term cognitive impairment (in the absence of preexisting cognitive impairment) and functional decline following delirium, results of studies have been inconsistent. An association also exists with depression after delirium. Although a holistic examination would assess sleep, this is not the area that research has found to be problematic. A holistic examination would include sexual functioning, but it is not the priority at this time. Posttraumatic stress symptoms have been seen in younger patients who experienced delirium while hospitalized.

Tara and Aaron are twins who are both diagnosed with schizophrenia. Aaron was diagnosed at 23 years old and Tara at 31 years old. Based on your knowledge of early and late onset of schizophrenia, which of the following is true? A. Tara and Aaron have the same expectation of a poor long-term prognosis. B. Tara will experience more positive signs of schizophrenia such as hallucinations. C. Aaron will be more likely to hold a job and live a productive life. D. Tara has a better chance for positive outcomes because of later onset.

D Female patients diagnosed with schizophrenia between the ages of 25 and 35 years have better outcomes than do their male counterparts diagnosed earlier. These two patients do not have the same expectation of a poor prognosis. There is no evidence suggesting that Tara will have more positive signs of schizophrenia. It is actually more unlikely that Aaron will be able to live a productive life because of his earlier onset, which has a poorer prognosis.

A student nurse is working with an 82-year-old patient diagnosed with dementia. The student is frustrated at times by not knowing how best to care for or communicate with the client. Which of the statement by the student best illustrates best care practice? A. Lighthearted banter: "Carl, you look great today in your new sweater, you handsome devil!" B. Limit setting: "Carl, you cannot yell out in your room. You are upsetting other patients." C. Firm direction: "You will take a shower this morning; there is no debating about it so don't try to argue." D. Positive regard: "Carl, I am glad to be here caring for you today. Let's talk about your plans for the day."

D Positive regard implies respect. It is the ability to view another person as being worthy of caring about and as someone who has strengths. The attitude of unconditional positive regard is the nurse's single most effective tool in caring for people with dementia. It induces people to cooperate with care and increases family members' satisfaction with care. Although the patient may not be able to verbalize plans for his day, this response conveys belief that the patient has something to offer and treats him with respect. It also shows that the nurse wants to care for the patient and conveys commitment to the relationship. Limit-setting may be necessary at times; however, it is not the most effective care tool. The other responses are nontherapeutic.

Which side effect of antipsychotic medication is generally nonreversible? A. Anticholinergic effects B. Pseudoparkinsonism C. Dystonic reaction D. Tardive dyskinesia

D Tardive dyskinesia is not always reversible with discontinuation of the medication and has no proven cure. The other side effects often appear early in therapy and can be minimized with treatment.

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia states to the nurse, "My, oh my. My mother is brother. Anytime now it can happen to my mother." Your best response would be: A. "You are having problems with your speech. You need to try harder to be clear." B. "You are confused. I will take you to your room to rest a while." C. "I will get you a prn medication for agitation." D. "I'm sorry, I didn't understand that. Do you want to talk more about your mother as we did yesterday?"

D The guidelines that are useful in communicating with a patient with disorganized or bizarre speech are to place the difficulty in understanding on yourself, not the patient, and look for themes that may be helpful in interpreting what the patient wants to say. Telling the patient he needs to try harder to be clearer is unrealistic since the patient would be unable do this. The other options are not useful in communicating with this patient and attempting to find common themes.