End of Chapter Questions

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

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 that require immediate intervention. Tardive dyskinesia involves involuntary spasmodic muscular contractions that involve the tongue, fingers, toes, neck, trunk, or pelvis; it appears after prolonged treatment. Waxy flexibility is a symptom observed in catatonic schizophrenia. Akathisia is evidenced by internal and external restlessness, pacing, and fidgeting

chapter 18 A patient experiencing fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alteration begs, Someone get these bugs off me. What is the nurses best response? a. There are no bugs on your legs. Your imagination is playing tricks on you. b. Try to relax. The crawling sensation will go away sooner if you can relax. c. Dont worry. I will have someone stay here and brush off the bugs for you. d. I dont see any bugs, but I know you are frightened so I will stay with you.

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 emotionally support the patient. Telling the patient to relax makes the patient responsible for self-soothing. Telling the patient that someone will brush the bugs away supports the perceptual distortions.

chapter 28 A 78-year-old nursing home resident diagnosed with hypertension and cardiac disease is usually alert and oriented. This morning, however, the resident says, My family visited during the night. They stood by the bed and talked to me. In reality, the patients family lives 200 miles away. The nurse should first suspect that the resident: a. may be experiencing side effects associated with medications. b. may be developing Alzheimer disease associated with advanced age. c. had a transient ischemic attack and developed sensory perceptual alterations. d. has previously unidentified alcohol abuse and is beginning alcohol withdrawal delirium.

ANS: A A resident taking medications is at high risk for becoming confused because of medication side effects, drug interactions, and delayed excretion. The nurse should report the event and continue to assess for cognitive impairment. Symptoms of dementia develop slowly but persist over time. Alcohol abuse and withdrawal are not the nurses first suspicion in this scenario

chapter 21 A patient tells the nurse, My husband is abusive most often when he drinks too much. His family was like that when he was growing up. He always apologizes and regrets hurting me. What risk factor was most predictive for the husband to become abusive? a. History of family violence b. Loss of employment c. Abuse of alcohol d. Poverty

ANS: A An abuse-prone individual is an individual who has experienced family violence and was often abused as a child. This phenomenon is part of the cycle of violence. The other options may be present but are not as predictive.

chapter 21 An 11-year-old child says, My parents dont like me. They call me stupid and say I never do anything right, but it doesnt matter. Im too dumb to learn. Which nursing diagnosis applies to this child? a. Chronic low self-esteem, related to negative feedback from parents b. Deficient knowledge, related to interpersonal skills with parents c. Disturbed personal identity, related to negative self-evaluation d. Complicated grieving, related to poor academic performance

ANS: A The child has indicated a belief in being too dumb to learn. The child receives frequent negative and demeaning feedback from the parents. Deficient knowledge is a nursing diagnosis that refers to knowledge of health care measures. Disturbed personal identity refers to an alteration in the ability to distinguish between self and nonself. Grieving may apply, but a specific loss is not evident in this scenario. Low self-esteem is more relevant to the childs statements.

chapter 21 An older adult diagnosed with Alzheimer disease lives with family. After observing multiple bruises, the home health nurse talks with the older adults daughter, who becomes defensive and says, My mother often wanders at night. Last night she fell down the stairs. Which nursing diagnosis has priority? a. Risk for injury, related to poor judgment, cognitive impairment, and lack of caregiver supervision b. Noncompliance, related to confusion and disorientation as evidenced by lack of cooperation c. Impaired verbal communication, related to brain impairment as evidenced by the confusion d. Insomnia, related to cognitive impairment as evidenced by wandering at night

ANS: A The patient is at high risk for injury because of her confusion. The risk increases when caregivers are unable to provide constant supervision. No assessment data support the diagnoses of Impaired verbal communication or Noncompliance. Sleep pattern disturbance certainly applies to this patient; however, the diagnosis Risk for injury is a higher priority.

chapter 18 An older adult diagnosed with moderate-stage dementia forgets where the bathroom is and has episodes of incontinence. Which intervention should the nurse suggest to the patients family? a. Label the bathroom door. b. Take the older adult to the bathroom hourly. c. Place the older adult in disposable adult diapers. d. Make sure the older adult does not eat nonfood items.

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

chapter 17 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 ones mind. An idea of reference is a type of delusion in which trivial events are given personal significance.

chapter 28 A nurse and social worker co-lead a reminiscence group for six elite-old adults. Which activity is appropriate to include in the group? a. Singing a song from World War II b. Learning to send and receive email c. Discussing national leadership during the Vietnam War d. Identifying the most troubling story in todays newspaper

ANS: A Elite-old adults are persons over 94 years of age; they were young during World War II. Reminiscence groups share memories of the past. Sending and receiving email is not an aspect of reminiscence. The other incorrect options are less relevant to this age group.

chapter 24 The staff development coordinator plans to teach use of physical management techniques when patients become assaultive. Which topic should be emphasized? a. Practice and teamwork b. Spontaneity and surprise c. Caution and superior size d. Diversion and physical outlets

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

chapter 18 A patient has progressive memory deficit associated with dementia. Which nursing intervention would best help the individual function in the environment? a. Assist the patient to perform simple tasks by giving step-by-step directions. b. Reduce frustration by performing activities of daily living for the patient. c. Stimulate intellectual function by discussing new topics with the patient. d. Promote the use of the patients sense of humor by telling jokes.

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

chapter 21 . A patient has a history of physical violence against family members when frustrated and then experiences periods of remorse after each outburst. Which finding indicates success in the plan of care? The patient: a. expresses frustration verbally instead of physically. b. explains the rationale for behaviors to the victim. c. identifies three personal strengths. d. agrees to seek counseling.

ANS: A The patient will develop a healthier way of coping with frustration if it is expressed verbally instead of physically. The incorrect options do not confirm the achievement of outcomes.

chapter 28 A patient asks the nurse, What advantage does a durable power of attorney for health care have over a living will? The nurse should reply, A durable power of attorney for health care: a. gives your agent the authority to make decisions about your care if you are unable to during any illness. b. can be given only to a relative, usually the next of kin, who has your best interests at heart. c. authorizes your physician to make decisions about your care that are in your best interest. d. can be used only if you have a terminal illness and become incapacitated.

ANS: A A durable power of attorney for health care is an instrument that appoints a person other than a health care provider to act as an individuals agent in the event that he or she is unable to make medical decisions. The patient does not have to be terminally ill or incompetent for the appointed person to act on his or her behalf.

chapter 17 The family of a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is unfamiliar with the illness and the 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 medications, the significance of medication compliance, and the importance of support for the ill member of the family, and also provides recommendations for living with a person with schizophrenia. Such a group can be of practical assistance to the family members. The other types of therapy do not focus on psychoeducation

chapter 24 Which behavior best demonstrates aggression? a. Stomping away from the nurses station, going to another room, and grabbing a snack from another patient. b. Bursting into tears, leaving the community meeting, and sitting on a bed hugging a pillow and sobbing. c. Telling the primary nurse, I felt angry when you said I could not have a second helping at lunch. d. Telling the medication nurse, I am not going to take that or any other medication you try to give me

ANS: A Aggression is harsh physical or verbal action that reflects rage, hostility, and the potential for physical or verbal destructiveness. Aggressive behavior violates the rights of others. The incorrect options do not feature violation of anothers rights.

chapter 28 If an older adult patient must be physically restrained, who is responsible for the patients safety? a. Nurse assigned to care for the patient b. Nursing assistant who applies the restraint c. Health care provider who ordered the application of restraint d. Family member who agrees to the application of the restraint

ANS: A Although restraint is ordered by a health care provider, it is carried out by a nursing staff member. The nurse caring for the patient is responsible for the safe application of restraining devices and for providing safe care while the patient is restrained. Nurses may delegate the application of restraining devices and the care of the patient in restraint but remain responsible for outcomes. Even when the family agrees to restraint, nurses are responsible for ensuring safe outcomes.

chapter 24 Which is an effective nursing intervention to assist an angry patient to learn to manage anger without violence? a. Help the patient identify a thought that increases anger, find proof for or against the belief, and substitute reality-based thinking. b. Provide negative reinforcement such as restraint or seclusion in response to angry outbursts, whether or not violence is present. c. Use aversive conditioning, such as popping a rubber band on the wrist, to help extinguish angry feelings. d. Administer an antipsychotic or antianxiety medication when the patient feels angry.

ANS: A Anger has a strong cognitive component; therefore, using cognition to manage anger is logical. The incorrect options do nothing to help the patient learn anger management.

chapter 28 The highest priority for assessment by nurses caring for older adults who self-administer medications is: a. use of multiple drugs with anticholinergic effects. b. overuse of medications for erectile dysfunction. c. misuse of antihypertensive medications. d. trading medications with acquaintances.

ANS: A Anticholinergic effects are cumulative in older adults and often have adverse consequences related to accidents and injuries. The incorrect options may be relevant but are not of the highest priority.

chapter 27 A person diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness enters a shelter for the homeless. Which intervention should be the nurses initial priority? a. Develop a relationship b. Find supported employment c. Administer prescribed medication d. Teach appropriate health care practices

ANS: A Basic psychosocial needs do not change because a person is homeless. The nurses initial priority should be establishing rapport. Once a trusting relationship is established, then the nurse can pursue other interventions.

chapter 22 An unconscious person is brought to the emergency department by a friend. The friend found the person in a bedroom at a college fraternity party. Semen is observed on the persons underclothes. The priority actions of staff members should focus on: a. maintaining the airway. b. preserving rape evidence. c. obtaining a description of the rape. d. determining what drug was ingested.

ANS: A Because the patient is unconscious, the risk for airway obstruction is present. The incorrect options are of lower priority than preserving physiologic functioning.

chapter 18 An older adult takes digoxin and hydrochlorothiazide daily, as well as lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for anxiety. Over 2 days, this adult developed confusion, slurred speech, an unsteady gait, and fluctuating levels of orientation. These findings are most characteristic of: a. delirium. b. dementia. c. amnestic syndrome. d. Alzheimer disease.

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 Alzheimer disease, a type of dementia, is more insidious. Amnestic syndrome involves memory impairment without other cognitive problems.

chapter 17 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 is thrust forward, and the patient is drooling. Which intervention by the nurse is indicated? a. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 50 mg IM from the PRN medication administration record. b. Reassure the patient that the symptoms will subside. Practice relaxation exercises with the patient. c. Give trihexyphenidyl (Artane) 5 mg orally at the next regularly scheduled medication administration time. d. Administer atropine sulfate 2 mg subcutaneously from the PRN medication administration record.

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; therefore, the intramuscular route is best. In this case, the best option given is diphenhydramine.

chapter 28 . A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is prescribed for an older adult patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Nursing assessment should include careful collection of information regarding: a. use of other prescribed medications and over-the-counter products. b. evidence of pseudoparkinsonism or tardive dyskinesia. c. history of psoriasis and any other skin disorders. d. history of diarrhea and electrolyte imbalances.

ANS: A Drug interactions, with both prescription and over-the-counter products, can be problematic for the geriatric patient taking an SSRI. Careful collection of information is important. The incorrect options do not pose problems with SSRIs.

chapter 27 A homeless patient diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness became suspicious and delusional. The patient was given depot antipsychotic medication and housing was arranged at a local shelter. After 2 weeks, which statement by the patient indicates significant improvement? a. I am feeling safe and comfortable here. Nobody bothers me. b. They will not let me drink. They have many rules in the shelter. c. Those guys are always watching me. I think someone stole my shoes. d. That shot made my arm sore. Im not going to take any more of them.

ANS: A Evaluation of a patients progress is made based on patient satisfaction with the new health status and the health care teams estimation of improvement. For a formerly delusional patient to admit to feeling comfortable and free of being bothered by others denotes an improvement in the patients condition. The other options suggest that the patient is in danger of relapse.

chapter 22 A child was abducted and raped. Which personal reaction by the nurse could interfere with the childs care? a. Anger b. Concern c. Empathy d. Compassion

ANS: A Feelings of empathy, concern, and compassion are helpful. Anger, on the other hand, may make objectivity impossible

chapter 27 A patient says, I often make careless mistakes and have trouble staying focused. Sometimes its hard to listen to what someone is saying. I have problems putting things in the right order and often lose equipment. Which problem should the nurse document? a. Inattention b. Impulsivity c. Hyperactivity d. Social impairment

ANS: A Inattention refers to the failure to stay focused. A number of the other problems are the result of failure to pay attention, which contributes to problems with organization. Impulsivity refers to acting without thinking through the consequences. Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity. Social impairment refers to the failure to use appropriate social skills.

chapter 24 A patient was responding to auditory hallucinations earlier in the morning. The patient approaches the nurse, shaking a fist and shouting, Back off! and then goes into the day room. As the nurse follows the patient into the day room, the nurse should: a. make sure adequate physical space exists between the nurse and the patient. b. move into a position that allows the patient to be close to the door. c. maintain one arms length distance from the patient. d. sit down in a chair near the patient.

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

chapter 13 Which intervention is appropriate for a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? a. Refer the patients requests and questions to the case manager. b. Explore the patients feelings of fear and inferiority. c. Provide negative reinforcement for acting-out behavior. d. Ignore, rather than confront, inappropriate behavior.

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

Chapter 17 A nurse works with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia regarding the importance of medication management. The patient repeatedly says, I dont 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 patients dislike of taking pills.

chapter 27 A patient diagnosed with severe and persistent mentally illness lives in a homeless shelter. The priority nursing diagnosis for this patient is Powerlessness. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care? a. Encourage mutual goal setting. b. Verbally communicate empathy. c. Reinforce participation in activities. d. Demonstrate an accepting attitude.

ANS: A Mutual goal setting is an intervention designed to promote feelings of personal autonomy and dispel feelings of powerlessness. Although it might be easier and faster for the nurse to establish a plan and outcomes, this action contributes to the patients sense of powerlessness. Involving the patient in decision making empowers the patient and reduces feelings of powerlessness.

chapter 21 An older adult diagnosed with Alzheimer disease lives with family. During the week, the person attends a day care center while the family is at work. In the evenings, members of the family provide care. Which factor makes this patient most vulnerable to abuse? a. Dementia b. Living in a rural area c. Being part of a busy family d. Being home only in the evening

ANS: A Older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairments, are at high risk for abuse. The other characteristics are not identified as placing an individual at high risk for abuse.

chapter 13 What is the priority intervention for a nurse beginning a therapeutic relationship with a patient diagnosed with a schizotypal personality disorder? a. Respect the patients need for periods of social isolation. b. Prevent the patient from violating the nurses rights. c. Engage the patient in many community activities. d. Teach the patient how to match clothing.

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

chapter 13 Others describe a worker as very shy and lacking in self-confidence. This worker stays in an office cubicle all day and never comes out for breaks or lunch. Which term best describes this behavior? a. Avoidant b. Dependent c. Histrionic d. Paranoid

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

chapter 28 A health care provider writes these new prescriptions for a resident in a skilled care facility: 2 g sodium diet; restraint as needed; limit fluids to 2000 ml daily; 1 dose milk of magnesia 30 ml orally if no bowel movement occurs for 3 days. Which prescription should the nurse question? a. Restraint b. Fluid restriction c. Milk of magnesia d. Sodium restriction

ANS: A Restraints may be applied only on the written order of the health care provider that specifies the duration during which the restraints can be used. The Joint Commission guidelines and Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act regulations also mandate a number of other conditions that must be considered and documented before restraints are used. The other orders may be appropriate for implementation.

chapter 18 A hospitalized patient experiencing delirium misinterprets reality, and a patient diagnosed with dementia wanders about the home. Which outcome is the priority in both scenarios? Each patient will: a. remain safe in the environment. b. participate actively in self-care c. communicate verbally. d. acknowledge reality.

ANS: A Risk for injury is the nurses priority concern in both scenarios. Safety maintenance is the desired outcome. The other outcomes may not be realistic.

chapter 13 A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder is hospitalized several times after self-inflicted lacerations. The patient remains impulsive. Dialectical behavior therapy starts on an outpatient basis. Which nursing diagnosis is the focus of this therapy? a. Risk for self-mutilation b. Impaired skin integrity c. Risk for injury d. Powerlessness

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

chapter 27 A nurse cares for a patient diagnosed with paraphilia. The nurse expects the health care provider may prescribe which type of medication to reduce paraphilic behaviors? a. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) b. Erectile dysfunction medication c. Atypical antipsychotic medication d. Mood stabilizer

ANS: A SSRIs are reported to have a positive effect on paraphilia. The other medications are not indicated for this disorder.

chapter 13 A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has a history of self-mutilation and suicide attempts. The patient reveals feelings of depression and anger with life. The psychiatrist suggests the use of a medication. Which type of medication should the nurse expect? a. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) b. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) c. Benzodiazepine d. Antipsychotic

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

chapter 28 A nurse asks the following questions while assessing an older adult. The nurse will add the Geriatric Depression Scale as part of the assessment if the patient answers yes to which question? a. Would you say your mood is often sad? b. Are you having any trouble with your memory? c. Have you noticed an increase in your alcohol use? d. Do you often experience moderate-to-severe pain?

ANS: A Sadness may be a symptom of depression. Sad moods occurring with regularity should signal the need to assess further for other symptoms of depression. The incorrect options do not focus on mood.

Chapter 17 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 visit every other day for 1 week; stay with the patient for 20 minutes; accept silence; state when the nurse will return. b. Arrange to spend 1 hour each day with the patient; focus on asking questions about what the patient is thinking or experiencing; avoid silences. c. Visit twice daily; sit beside the patient with a hand on the 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.

chapter 22 A person was abducted and raped at gunpoint by an unknown assailant. Which assessment finding best indicates the person is in the acute phase of rape trauma syndrome? a. Confusion and disbelief b. Decreased motor activity c. Flashbacks and dreams d. Fears and phobias

ANS: A Shock, emotional numbness, confusion, disbelief, restlessness, and agitated motor activity depict the acute phase of rape trauma syndrome. Flashbacks, dreams, fears, and phobias occur in the long-term reorganization phase of rape trauma syndrome. Decreased motor activity, by itself, is not indicative of any particular phase.

chapter 28 When admitting older adult patients, health care agencies receiving federal funds must provide written information about: a. advance health care directives. b. the financial status of the institution. c. how to sign out against medical advice. d. the institutions policy on the use of restraints.

ANS: A The Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990 requires that patients have the opportunity to prepare advance directives.

chapter 18 Goals and outcomes for an older adult patient experiencing delirium caused by fever and dehydration will focus on: a. returning to premorbid levels of function. b. identifying stressors negatively affecting self. c. demonstrating motor responses to noxious stimuli. d. exerting control over responses to perceptual distortions.

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

chapter 21 . A patient at the emergency department is diagnosed with a concussion. The patient is accompanied by a spouse who insists on staying in the room and answering all questions. The patient avoids eye contact and has a sad affect and slumped shoulders. Assessment of which additional problem has priority? a. Risk of intimate partner violence b. Phobia of crowded places c. Migraine headaches d. Major depression

ANS: A The diagnosis of a concussion suggests violence as a cause. The patient is exhibiting indicators of abuse including fearfulness, depressed affect, poor eye contact, and a possessive spouse. The patient may be also experiencing depression, anxiety, and migraine headaches, but the nurses advocacy role necessitates an assessment for intimate partner violence.

chapter 21 Which family scenario presents the greatest risk for family violence? a. An unemployed husband with low self-esteem, a wife who loses her job, and a developmentally delayed 3- year-old child b. A husband who finds employment 2 weeks after losing his previous job, a wife with stable employment, and a child doing well in school c. A single mother with an executive position, a talented child, and a widowed grandmother living in the home to provide child care d. A single homosexual male parent, an adolescent son who has just begun dating girls, and the fathers unmarried sister who has come to visit for 2 weeks

ANS: A The family with an unemployed husband with low self-esteem, a newly unemployed wife, and a developmentally challenged young child has the greatest number of stressors. The other families described have fewer negative events occurring.

chapter 13 A patient tells a nurse, I sometimes get into trouble because I make quick decisions and act on them. A therapeutic response would be: a. Lets consider the advantages of being able to stop and think before acting. b. It sounds as though youve developed some insight into your situation. c. Ill bet you have some interesting stories to share about overreacting. d. Its good that youre showing readiness for behavioral change.

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

Chapter 17 A patient with delusions of persecution about being poisoned has refused all hospital meals for 3 days. Which intervention is most likely to be acceptable to the patient? a. Allow the patient to have supervised access to food vending machines b. Allow the patient to telephone a local restaurant to deliver meals c. Offer to taste each portion on the tray for the patient d. Begin tube feedings or total parenteral nutrition

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 considered aggressive and usually promote violence. Patients often perceive foods in sealed containers, packages, or natural shells as being safe.

chapter 18 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.

chapter 28 A community mental health nurse plans an educational program for staff members at a home health agency that specializes in the care of older adults. A topic of high priority should be: a. identifying clinical depression in older adults. b. providing cost-effective foot care for older adults. c. identifying nutritional deficiencies in older adults. d. psychosocial stimulation for those who live alone.

ANS: A The topic of greatest immediacy is identification of clinical depression in older adults. Home health staff are often better versed in the physical aspects of care and less knowledgeable about mental health topics. Statistics show that older adult patients with mental health problems are less likely than young adults to be diagnosed accurately. This is especially true for those with depression and anxiety, both of which are likely to be misinterpreted as normal aging. Undiagnosed and untreated depression and anxiety result in unnecessary suffering. The other options are of lesser importance

chapter 22 A victim of a violent rape has been in the emergency department for 3 hours. Evidence collection is complete. As discharge counseling begins, the victim says softly, I will never be the same again. I cant face my friends. There is no sense of trying to go on. Select the nurses most important response. a. Are you thinking of suicide? b. It will take time, but you will feel the same as before. c. Your friends will understand when you tell them. d. You will be able to find meaning in this experience as time goes on.

ANS: A The victims words suggest hopelessness. Whenever hopelessness is present, so is the risk for suicide. The nurse should directly address the possibility of suicidal ideation with the victim. The other options attempt to offer reassurance before making an assessment

chapter 28 A nurse wants to perform a preliminary assessment for suicidal ideation in an older adult patient. Which question would obtain the desired data? a. What thoughts do you have about a persons right to take his or her own life? b. If you felt suicidal, would you communicate your feelings to anyone? c. Do you have any risk factors that potentially contribute to suicide? d. Do you think you are vulnerable to developing a depressed mood?

ANS: A This question is clear, direct, and respectful. It will produce information relative to the acceptability of suicide as an option to the patient. If the patient deems suicide unacceptable, then no further assessment is necessary. If the patient deems suicide as acceptable, then the nurse can continue to assess the patients intent, plan, and means to carry out the plan, as well as the lethality of the chosen method. The incorrect options are less direct.

Chapter 17 When a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia was discharged 6 months ago, haloperidol (Haldol) was prescribed. The patient now says, I stopped taking those pills. They made me feel like a robot. What common side effects should the nurse validate with the patient? a. Sedation and muscle stiffness b. Sweating, nausea, and diarrhea c. Mild fever, sore throat, and skin rash d. Headache, watery eyes, and runny nose

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.

chapter 22 The nurse cares for a victim of a violent sexual assault. What is the most therapeutic intervention? a. Use accepting, nurturing, and empathetic communication techniques. b. Educate the victim about strategies to avoid attacks in the future. c. Discourage the expression of feelings until the victim stabilizes. d. Maintain a matter-of-fact manner and objectivity.

ANS: A Victims require the nurse to provide unconditional acceptance of them as individuals, because they often feel guilty and engage in self-blame. The nurse must be nurturing if the victims needs are to be met and must be empathetic to convey understanding and to promote an establishment of trust.

chapter 17 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, which are the symptoms present before the development of florid symptoms. The incorrect options each list the positive symptoms of schizophrenia that are more likely to be apparent during the acute stage of the illness.

chapter 17 . A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is hospitalized after arguing with co-workers and threatening to harm them. The patient is aloof and suspicious and says, Two staff members I saw talking were plotting to assault me. Based on data gathered at this point, which nursing diagnoses relate? Select all that apply. a. Risk for other-directed violence b. Disturbed thought processes c. Risk for loneliness d. Spiritual distress e. Social isolation

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 paranoia and feeling endangered by persecutors. Fearful individuals may strike out at perceived persecutors or attempt self-harm to get away from persecutors. Data are not present to support the other diagnoses.

chapter 21 A community health nurse visits a family with four children. The father behaves angrily, finds fault with a child, and asks twice, Why are you such a stupid kid? The wife says, I have difficulty disciplining the children. Its so frustrating. Which comments by the nurse will facilitate the interview with these parents? Select all that apply. a. Tell me how you punish your children. b. How do you stop your baby from crying? c. Caring for four small children must be difficult. d. Do you or your husband ever beat the children? e. Calling children stupid injures their self-esteem

ANS: A, B, C An interview with possible abusing individuals should be built on concern and carried out in a nonthreatening, nonjudgmental way. Empathic remarks are helpful in creating rapport. Questions requiring a descriptive response are less threatening and elicit more relevant information than questions that can be answered by yes or no

chapter 21 A 10-year-old child cares for siblings while the parents work because the family cannot afford a babysitter. This child says, My father doesnt like me. He calls me stupid all the time. The mother says the father is easily frustrated and has trouble disciplining the children. The community health nurse should consider which resources to stabilize the home situation? Select all that apply. a. Parental sessions to teach childrearing practices b. Anger management counseling for the father c. Continuing home visits to provide support d. Safety plan for the wife and children e. Placement of the children in foster care

ANS: A, B, C Anger management counseling for the father is appropriate. Support for this family will be an important component of treatment. By the wifes admission, the family has deficient knowledge of parenting practices. Whenever possible, the goal of intervention should be to keep the family together; thus removing the children from the home should be considered a last resort. Physical abuse is not suspected, so a safety plan is not a priority at this time

chapter 18 Which assessment findings would the nurse expect in a patient experiencing delirium? Select all that apply. a. Impaired level of consciousness b. Disorientation to place and time c. Wandering attention d. Apathy e. Agnosia

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.

chapter 22 A person was abducted and raped at gunpoint by an unknown assailant. Which interventions should the nurse use while caring for this person in the emergency department? Select all that apply. a. Allow the person to talk at a comfortable pace. b. Pose questions in nonjudgmental, empathic ways. c. Place the person in a private room with a caregiver. d. Reassure the person that a family member will arrive as soon as possible. e. Invite family members to the examination room and involve them in taking the history. f. Put an arm around the person to offer reassurance that the nurse is caring and compassionate.

ANS: A, B, C Neutral, nonjudgmental care and emotional support are critical to crisis management for the victim of rape. The rape victim should have privacy but not be left alone. Some rape victims prefer not to have family members involved. The patients privacy may be compromised by the presence of family. The rape victims anxiety may escalate when he or she is touched by a stranger, even when the stranger is a nurse

chapter 27 An adult patient tells the case manager, I dont have bipolar disorder anymore, so I dont need medicine. After I was in the hospital last year, you helped me get an apartment and disability checks. Now Im bored and dont have any friends. Which resources should the nurse suggest for the patient? Select all that apply a. Psychoeducation classes b. Vocational rehabilitation c. Social skills training d. Homeless shelter e. Crisis intervention

ANS: A, B, C The patient does not understand the illness and the need for adhering to the medication regimen. Psychoeducation for the patient (and family) can address this lack of knowledge. Work gives meaning and purpose to life; vocational rehabilitation can assist with this aspect of care. The patient, who considers himself friendless, could also profit from social skills training to improve the quality of interpersonal relationships. Many patients with severe mental illness have such poor communication skills that others are uncomfortable interacting with them. Interactional skills can be effectively taught by breaking down the skill into small verbal and nonverbal components. The patient presently has a home and does not require the services of a homeless shelter. The nurse case manager functions in the role of crisis stabilizer, so no related referral is needed.

chapter 18 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.

chapter 24 A nurse directs the intervention team who must take an aggressive patient to seclusion. Other patients were removed from the area. Before approaching the patient, the nurse should ensure that staff take which actions? Select all that apply. a. Remove jewelry, glasses, and harmful items from the patient and staff members. b. Appoint a person to clear a path and open, close, or lock doors. c. Quickly approach the patient, and grab the closest extremity. d. Select the person who will communicate with the patient. e. Move behind the patient to use the element of surprise.

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

chapter 13 For which patients diagnosed with personality disorders would a family history of similar problems be most likely? Select all that apply. a. Obsessive-compulsive b. Antisocial c. Dependent d. Schizotypal e. Narcissistic

ANS: A, B, D Some personality disorders have evidence of genetic links; therefore the family history would show other family members with similar traits. Heredity plays a role in schizotypal and antisocial problems, as well as obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

chapter 27 Which information should a nurse include in health teaching for adults diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their significant others? Select all that apply. a. Tendency for genetic transmission b. Prevention strategies related to substance abuse c. Negative reinforcement strategies to help modify behaviors d. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are usually prescribed for hyperactivity e. Cognitive therapy may help resolve internalized negative beliefs about self

ANS: A, B, E Evidence suggests that ADHD has a biological basis. This fact can help adults with the disorder to cope with low self-esteem. Cognitive therapy is helpful in reframing negative beliefs about self. Adults diagnosed with ADHD have a higher incidence of substance abuse problems. Psychostimulant medications, rather than SSRIs, are usually prescribed

chapter 18 A patient diagnosed with Alzheimer disease has a dressing and grooming self-care deficit. Designate the appropriate interventions to include in the patients plan of care. Select all that apply. a. Provide clothing with elastic and hook-and-loop closures. b. Label clothing with the patients name and name of the item. c. Administer antianxiety medication before bathing and dressing. d. Provide necessary items, and direct the patient to proceed independently. e. If the patient resists, use distraction and then try again after a short interval.

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 (and provides information if the patient has agnosia). When a patient resists, using distraction and trying again after a short interval are appropriate because patient moods are often labile; the patient may be willing to cooperate during a later opportunity. Providing the necessary items for grooming and directing the patient to proceed independently are inappropriate. Staff members are prepared to coach by giving step-by-step directions for each task as it occurs. Administering anxiolytic medication before bathing and dressing is inappropriate. This measure would result in unnecessary overmedication

chapter 27 Which statements most clearly indicate that the speaker views mental illness with stigma? Select all that apply. a. We are all a little bit crazy. b. If people with mental illness would go to church, their problems would be solved. c. Many mental illnesses are genetically transmitted. Its no ones fault that the illness occurs. d. Anyone can have a mental illness. War or natural disasters can be too stressful for healthy people. e. People with mental illness are lazy. They get government disability checks instead of working.

ANS: A, B, E Stigma is represented by judgmental remarks that discount the reality and validity of mental illness. It is evidenced in stereotypical statements, by oversimplification, and by multiple other messages of guilt or shame.

chapter 28 A nurse leads a staff development session about ageism among health care workers. What information should the nurse include about the consequences of ageism? Select all that apply. a. Failure of older adults to receive necessary medical information b. Development of public policy that favors programs for older adults c. Staff shortages because caregivers prefer working with younger adults d. Perception that older adults consume a small share of medical resources e. More ancillary than professional personnel discriminate with regard to age

ANS: A, C Because of societys negative stereotyping of older adults as having little to offer, some staff members avoid working with older patients. Staff shortages in long-term care facilities are often greater than those for acute care settings. Older adult patients often receive less information about their conditions and are offered fewer treatment options than younger patients; some health care staff members perceive them as less able to understand. This problem exists among professional and ancillary personnel. Public policy discriminates against programs for older adults. Societal anger exists because older adults are perceived to consume a disproportionately large share of the medical resources.

chapter 28 . A health care provider decided that the emotional distress of an older adult patient warrants the use of risperidone (Risperdal). Which interventions should the nurse add to the patients plan of care? Select all that apply. a. Monitor for signs and symptoms of diabetes. b. Use disposable briefs for incontinence. c. Monitor for cerebrovascular changes. d. Implement a tyramine-free diet. e. Monitor for dehydration.

ANS: A, C Use of atypical antipsychotic medications increases the risk of diabetes and cerebrovascular events in the older adult population; therefore, the nurse should carefully monitor the patient for changes suggestive of these problems. This medication does not place the patient at great risk for the other options.

chapter 22 When an emergency department nurse teaches a victim of the rape about reactions that may occur during the long-term reorganization phase, which symptoms should be included? Select all that apply. a. Development of fears and phobias b. Decreased motor activity c. Feelings of numbness d. Flashbacks, dreams e. Syncopal episodes

ANS: A, C, D These reactions are common to the long-term reorganization phase. Victims of rape frequently have a period of increased motor activity rather than decreased motor activity during the long-term reorganization phase. Syncopal episodes are not expected.

chapter 24 Because an intervention is required to control a patients aggressive behavior, a critical incident debriefing takes place. Which topics should be the focus of the discussion? Select all that apply. a. Patient behavior associated with the incident b. Genetic factors associated with aggression c. Intervention techniques used by staff d. Effect of environmental factors e. Review of theories of aggression

ANS: A, C, D The patients behavior, the intervention techniques used, and the environment in which the incident occurred are important to establish realistic outcomes and effective nursing interventions. Discussing the views about the theoretical origins of aggression is less effective.

chapter 27 Which economic factors are most critical to the success of discharge planning for a patient diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness? Select all that apply. a. Access to housing b. Individual psychotherapy c. Income to meet basic needs d. Availability of health insurance e. Ongoing interdisciplinary evaluation

ANS: A, C, D The success of discharge planning requires careful attention to the patients economic status. Access to housing is the first priority of the seriously mentally ill, and lack of income and health insurance is a barrier to effective treatment and rehabilitation. Although important aspects of ongoing care of the seriously mentally ill patient, ongoing interdisciplinary evaluation and individual psychotherapy are not economic factors.

chapter 21 A nurse assists a victim of intimate partner violence to create a plan for escape if it becomes necessary. The plan should include which components? Select all that apply. a. Keep a cell phone fully charged. b. Hide money with which to buy new clothes. c. Have the telephone number for the nearest shelter. d. Take enough toys to amuse the children for 2 days. e. Secure a supply of current medications for self and children. f. Determine a code word to signal children that it is time to leave. g. Assemble birth certificates, Social Security cards, and licenses.

ANS: A, C, E, F, G The victim must prepare for a quick exit and so should assemble necessary items. Keeping a cell phone fully charged will help with access to support persons or agencies. The individual should be advised to hide a small suitcase containing a change of clothing for self and for each child. Taking a large supply of toys would be cumbersome and might compromise the plan. People are advised to take one favorite small toy or security object for each child, but most shelters have toys to further engage the children. Accumulating enough money to purchase clothing may be difficult.

chapter 17 The family members of a patient newly diagnosed with schizophrenia state that they do not understand what has caused the illness. The nurses 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

chapter 24 Which central nervous system structures are most associated with anger and aggression? Select all that apply. a. Amygdala b. Cerebellum c. Basal ganglia d. Temporal lobe e. Parietal lobe

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

chapter 24 Which behaviors are most consistent with the clinical picture of a patient who is becoming increasingly aggressive? Select all that apply. a. Pacing b. Crying c. Withdrawn affect d. Rigid posture with clenched jaw e. Staring with narrowed eyes into the eyes of another

ANS: A, D, E Crying and a withdrawn affect are not cited by experts as behaviors indicating that the individual has a high potential to behave violently. The other behaviors are consistent with the increased risk for other-directed violence.

chapter 24 A patient with a history of command hallucinations approaches the nurse, yelling obscenities. The patient mumbles and then walks away. The nurse follows. Which nursing actions are most likely to be effective in deescalating this scenario? Select all that apply. a. State the expectation that the patient will stay in control. b. State that the patient cannot be understood when mumbling. c. Tell the patient, You are behaving inappropriately. d. Offer to provide the patient with medication to help. e. Speak in a firm but calm voice.

ANS: A, D, E Stating the expectation that the patient will maintain control of behavior reinforces positive, healthy behavior and avoids challenging the patient. Offering an as-needed medication provides support for the patient trying to maintain control. A firm but calm voice will likely comfort and calm the patient. Belittling remarks may lead to aggression. Criticism will probably prompt the patient to begin shouting.

chapter 28 A student nurse visiting a senior center tells the instructor, Its so depressing to see all these old people. They are so weak and frail. They are probably all confused. The student is expressing: a. reality. b. ageism. c. empathy. d. advocacy.

ANS: B Ageism is defined as a bias against older people because of their age. None of the other options can be identified from the ideas expressed by the student.

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

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

chapter 21 What is a nurses legal responsibility if child abuse or neglect is suspected? a. Discuss the findings with the childs teacher, principal, and school psychologist. b. Report the suspected abuse or neglect according to state regulations. c. Document the observations and speculations in the medical record. d. Continue the assessment.

ANS: B Each state has specific regulations for reporting child abuse that must be observed. The nurse is usually a mandated reporter. The reporter does not need to be sure that abuse or neglect has occurred but only that it is suspected. Speculation should not be documented; only the facts are recorded.

chapter 21 A clinic nurse interviews an adult patient who reports fatigue, back pain, headaches, and sleep disturbances. The patient seems tense and then becomes reluctant to provide more information and hurries to leave. How can the nurse best serve the patient? a. Explore the possibility of patient social isolation. b. Have the patient complete an abuse assessment screen. c. Ask whether the patient has ever had psychiatric counseling. d. Ask the patient to disrobe; then assess for signs of physical abuse.

ANS: B In this situation, the nurse should consider the possibility that the patient is a victim of intimate partner violence. Although the patient is reluctant to discuss issues, he or she may be willing to fill out an abuse assessment screen, which would then open the door to discussion.

chapter 21 What feelings are most commonly experienced by nurses working with abusive families? a. Outrage toward the victim and sympathy for the abuser b. Sympathy for the victim and anger toward the abuser c. Unconcern for the victim and dislike for the abuser d. Vulnerability for self and empathy with the abuser

ANS: B Intense protective feelings, sympathy for the victim, and anger and outrage toward the abuser are common emotions of a nurse working with an abusive family.

chapter 27 For patients diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, what is the major advantage of case management? A case manager can: a. modify traditional psychotherapy. b. efficiently access and use resources. c. focus on social skills training and self-esteem building. d. bring groups of patients together to discuss common problems.

ANS: B The case manager not only provides entrance into the system of care, but he or she also coordinates the multiple referrals that so often confuse the patient who is severely and persistently mentally ill and the patients family. Case management promotes the efficient use of services. The other options are lesser advantages or may be irrelevant.

chapter 21 A victim of physical abuse by an intimate partner is treated for a broken wrist. The patient has considered leaving but says, You stay together, no matter what happens. Which outcome should be met before the patient leaves the emergency department? The patient will: a. limit contact with the abuser by obtaining a restraining order. b. name two community resources that can be contacted. c. demonstrate insight into the abusive relationship. d. facilitate counseling for the abuser.

ANS: B The only outcome indicator clearly attainable within this time is for a staff member to provide the victim with information about community resources that can be contacted. The development of insight into the abusive relationship requires time. Securing a restraining order can be quickly accomplished but not while the patient is in the emergency department. Facilitating the abusers counseling may require weeks or months

chapter 22 A nurse works with a person who was raped four years ago. This person says, It took a long time for me to recover from that horrible experience. Which term should the nurse use when referring to this person? a. Victim b. Survivor c. Plaintiff d. Perpetrator

ANS: B A survivor is an individual who has experience sexual assault, participated in interventions, and is moving forward in life. Victim refers to a person who experienced a recent sexual assault. Plaintiff refers to a person bringing a civil complaint to the court system. Perpetrator refers to a person who commits a crime.

chapter 28 . A clinic nurse interviews four patients between 70 and 80 years of age. Which patient should have further assessment regarding the risk of alcohol addiction? The patient: a. with a history of intermittent problems of alcohol misuse early in life and who now consumes one glass of wine nightly with dinner. b. with no history of alcohol-related problems until age 65 years, when the patient began to drink alcohol daily to keep my mind off my arthritis. c. who drank socially throughout adult life and continues this pattern, saying, Ive earned the right to do as I please. d. who abused alcohol between the ages of 25 and 40 years but now abstains and occasionally attends Alcoholics Anonymous.

ANS: B Alcohol addiction can develop at any age, and the geriatric population is particularly at risk. The geriatric problem drinker is defined as someone who has no history of alcohol-related problems but develops an alcohol-abuse pattern in response to the stresses of aging. The incorrect responses profile alcohol use that is not problematic.

chapter 27 An adult diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) says, Ive always been stupid. I never had friends when I was a child. My parents often punished me because I made mistakes. Now, I cant keep a job. The nurse managing care should consider: a. aversive therapy to extinguish negative behaviors. b. cognitive therapy to help address internalized beliefs. c. group therapy to allow comparison of feelings with others. d. vocational counseling to identify needed occupational skills.

ANS: B Cognitive therapy and knowledge of ADHD will make it possible for the patient to reframe the past and present in a more positive and realistic light and to challenge internalized false beliefs about self. Aversive therapy would not be useful for the patient. Group therapy may be valuable later to allow for the testing of new coping behaviors in a safe environment. Vocational counseling can help the patient explore suitable career options while pursuing treatment.

chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken a conventional antipsychotic medication for a year. Hallucinations are less intrusive but the patient continues to have apathy, poverty of thought, and social isolation. The nurse expects a change to which medication? a. haloperidol (Haldol) b. olanzapine (Zyprexa) c. chlorpromazine (Thorazine) d. diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

ANS: B Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication that targets both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Haloperidol and chlorpromazine are conventional antipsychotic agents that target only positive symptoms. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine.

chapter 18 A patient diagnosed with Alzheimer disease wanders at night. Which action should the nurse recommend for a family to use in the home to enhance safety? a. Place throw rugs on tile or wooden floors. b. Place locks at the tops of doors. c. Encourage daytime napping. d. Obtain a bed with side rails.

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. All throw rugs should be removed to prevent falls. The patient will try to climb over side rails, increasing the risk for injury and falls. Day napping should be discouraged with the hope that the patient will sleep during the night

chapter 18 What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient experiencing fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and visual and tactile hallucinations? a. Bathing/hygiene self-care deficit, related to altered cerebral function, as evidenced by confusion and inability to perform personal hygiene tasks b. Risk for injury, related to altered cerebral function, misperception of the environment, and unsteady gait c. Disturbed thought processes, related to medication intoxication, as evidenced by confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations d. Fear, related to sensory perceptual alterations, as evidenced by hiding from imagined ferocious dogs

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

chapter 24 12. Which assessment finding presents the greatest risk for violent behavior? A patient who: a. is severely agoraphobic. b. has a history of intimate partner violence. c. demonstrates bizarre somatic delusions. d. verbalizes hopelessness and powerlessness.

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

chapter 13 A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has self-inflicted wrist lacerations. The health care provider prescribes daily dressing changes. The nurse performing this care should: a. encourage the patient to express anger. b. provide care in a matter-of-fact manner. c. be very kind, sympathetic, and concerned. d. offer to listen to the patients feelings about cutting.

ANS: B A matter-of-fact approach does not provide the patient with positive reinforcement for self-mutilation. The goal of providing emotional consistency is supported by this approach. The incorrect options provide positive reinforcement of the behavior.

chapter 24 An intramuscular dose of antipsychotic medication needs to be given to a patient who is becoming increasingly more aggressive. The patient is in the day room. The nurse should enter the day room: a. and say, Would you like to come to your room and take some medication your doctor prescribed for you? b. accompanied by three staff members and say, Please come to your room so I can give you some medication that will help you feel more comfortable. c. and place the patient in a basket-hold and then say, I am going to take you to your room to give you an injection of medication to calm you. d. accompanied by two security guards and tell the patient, You can come to your room willingly so I can give you this medication, or the aide and I will take you there.

ANS: B A patient gains feelings of security if he or she sees that others are present to help with control. The nurse gives a simple direction, honestly states what is going to happen, and reassures the patient that the intervention will be helpful. This positive approach assumes that the patient can act responsibly and will maintain control. Physical control measures should be used only as a last resort. The security guards are likely to intimidate the patient and increase feelings of vulnerability

chapter 22 A patient comes to the hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during a rape. The patient abruptly decides to decline treatment and return home. Before the patient leaves, the nurse should: a. tell the patient, You may not leave until you receive prophylactic treatment for sexually transmitted diseases. b. provide written information concerning the physical and emotional reactions that may be experienced. c. explain the need and importance of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing. d. offer verbal information about legal resources.

ANS: B All information given to a patient before he or she leaves the emergency department should be in writing. Patients who are anxious are unable to concentrate and therefore cannot retain much of what is verbally imparted. Written information can be read and referred to at later times. Patients cannot be kept against their will or coerced into receiving medication as a condition of being allowed to leave. This constitutes false imprisonment.

A 75-year-old patient comes to the clinic reporting frequent headaches. After an introduction at the beginning of the interview, the nurse should: a. initiate a neurologic assessment. b. ask if the patient can hear clearly as the nurse speaks. c. suggest that the patient lie down in a darkened room for a few minutes d. administer medication to relieve the patients pain before performing the assessment.

ANS: B Before proceeding, the nurse should assess the patients ability to hear questions. Hearing ability often declines with age. Impaired hearing could lead to inaccurate answers. The nurse should not administer medication (an intervention) until after the assessment is complete.

chapter 27 A man tells the nurse, All my life, I have felt and acted like a woman while living in a mans body. For the past year, I have lived and dressed as a woman. I changed jobs to protect my new identity. Which request is the patient likely to make to the health care provider? a. Can you refer me for psychological testing? b. Will you prescribe estrogen therapy? c. Will you alter my medical records? d. What should I tell my parents?

ANS: B Before sexual reassignment surgery, the step that follows living as a member of the other sex is hormone therapy. The patients decision to live as a woman makes this a natural request. Psychological testing occurs before sexual reassignment surgery, often after hormone therapy has begun. The patient has likely told his parents by this point.

Chapter 17 A patients care plan includes monitoring for auditory hallucinations. Which assessment findings suggest the patient may be hallucinating? a. Aloofness, haughtiness, suspicion b. Darting eyes, tilted head, mumbling to self c. Elevated mood, hyperactivity, distractibility d. Performing rituals, avoiding open places

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

chapter 24 A new patient immediately requires seclusion on admission. The assessment is incomplete, and no prescriptions have been written. Immediately after safely secluding the patient, which action has priority? a. Provide an opportunity for the patient to go to the bathroom. b. Notify the health care provider and obtain a seclusion order. c. Notify the hospital risk manager. d. Debrief the staff.

ANS: B Emergency seclusion can be effected by a credentialed nurse but must be followed by securing a medical order within the period specified by the state and agency. The incorrect options are not immediately necessary from a legal standpoint.

Chapter 17 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.

chapter 24 A patient has a history of impulsively acting out anger by striking others. Which would be an appropriate plan for avoiding such incidents? a. Explain that restraint and seclusion will be used if violence occurs. b. Help the patient identify incidents that trigger impulsive acting out. c. Offer one-on-one supervision to help the patient maintain control. d. Administer lorazepam (Ativan) every 4 hours to reduce the patients anxiety.

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

chapter 22 When a victim of sexual assault is discharged from the emergency department, the nurse should: a. arrange support from the victims family. b. provide referral information verbally and in writing. c. advise the victim to try not to think about the assault. d. offer to stay with the victim until stability is regained

ANS: B Immediately after the assault, rape victims are often disorganized and unable to think well or remember what they have been told. Written information acknowledges this fact and provides a solution. The incorrect options violate the patients right to privacy, evidence a rescue fantasy, and offer a platitude that is neither therapeutic nor effective.

Chapter 18 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.

chapter 27 A nurse prepares for an initial interview with a patient with suspected adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Questions should be focused to elicit information about which problem? a. Headaches b. Inattention c. Sexual impulses d. Trichotillomania

ANS: B Inattention usually persists from childhood into adult ADHD, although hyperactivity, impulsivity, and social impairments may also be present. Headaches would not be expected. Sexual impulses may be affected by adult ADHD, but this area is assessed later. Trichotillomania refers to pulling out ones hair as a tension-relieving behavior.

chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia begins a new prescription for lurasidone HCl (Latuda). The patient is 5?26?3? tall and currently weighs 204 pounds. Which topic is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan related to this medication? a. How to recognize tardive dyskinesia b. Weight management strategies c. Ways to manage constipation d. Sleep hygiene measures

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

chapter 18 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.

chapter 22 A rape victim tells the emergency department nurse, I feel so dirty. Please let me take a shower before the doctor examines me. The nurse should: a. arrange for the patient to shower. b. explain that washing would destroy evidence. c. give the patient a basin of hot water and towels. d. instruct the victim to wash above the waist only.

ANS: B No matter how uncomfortable, the patient should not bathe until the forensic examination is completed. The collection of evidence is critical if the patient is to be successful in court. The incorrect options would result in the destruction of evidence or are untrue.

chapter 22 Which situation constitutes consensual sex rather than rape? a. After coming home intoxicated from a party, a person forces the spouse to have sex. The spouse objects. b. A persons lover pleads to have oral sex. The person gives in but then regrets the decision. c. A person is beaten, robbed, and forcibly subjected to anal penetration by an assailant. d. A physician gives anesthesia for a procedure and has intercourse with an unconscious patient.

ANS: B Only the correct answer describes a scenario in which the sexual contact is consensual. Consensual sex is not considered rape if the participants are, at least, the age of majority.

Chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has catatonia. The patient is stuporous, demonstrates little spontaneous movement, and has waxy flexibility. The patients activities of daily living are severely compromised. An appropriate outcome is that the patient will: a. demonstrate increased interest in the environment by the end of week 1. b. perform self-care activities with coaching by the end of day 3. c. gradually take the initiative for self-care by the end of week 2. d. voluntarily accept tube feeding by day 2.

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

chapter 17 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.

chapter 24 An emergency department nurse realizes that the spouse of a patient is becoming increasingly irritable while waiting. Which intervention should the nurse use to prevent escalation of anger? a. Explain that the patients condition is not life threatening. b. Periodically provide an update and progress report on the patient. c. Explain that all patients are treated in order, based on their medical needs. d. Suggest that the spouse return home until the patients treatment is completed.

ANS: B Periodic updates reduce anxiety and defuse anger. This strategy acknowledges the spouses presence and concerns. The incorrect options are likely to increase anger because they imply that the anxiety is inappropriate.

Chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has catatonia. The patient has little spontaneous movement and waxy flexibility. Which patient needs are of priority importance? a. Psychosocial b. Physiologic c. Self-actualization d. Safety and security

ANS: B Physiologic needs must be met to preserve life. A patient who is catatonic may need to be fed by hand or tube, toileted, and given range-of-motion exercises to preserve physiologic integrity. The assessment findings do not suggest safety concerns. Higher level needs (psychosocial and self-actualization) are of lesser concern.

chapter 27 The treatment team believes medication will help a patient diagnosed with adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which class of medications does the nurse expect will be prescribed? a. Benzodiazepines b. Psychostimulants c. Antipsychotics d. Anxiolytics

ANS: B Psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, provide the basis for treatment of both adult and childhood ADHD. They are the most commonly used medications; therefore the nurse could expect the health care provider to prescribe a drug in this class. None of the other drugs listed as options have proved useful in the treatment of ADHD.

chapter 22 A nurse working in the county jail interviews a man who recently committed a violent sexual assault against a woman. Which comment from this perpetrator is most likely? a. She was very beautiful. b. I gave her what she wanted. c. I have issues with my mother. d. Ive been depressed for a long time.

ANS: B Rape involves a need for control, power, degradation, and dominance over others. The correct response shows a lack of remorse or guilt, which is a common characteristic of an antisocial personality. The incorrect responses show an appreciation for women, psychological conflict, and self-disclosure, which are not expected from a perpetrator of sexual assault.

chapter 28 A 74-year-old patient is regressed and apathetic. This patient responds to others only when they initiate the interaction. Which therapy would be most useful to promote resocialization? a. Life review b. Remotivation c. Group psychotherapy d. Individual psychotherapy

ANS: B Remotivation therapy is designed to resocialize patients who are regressed and apathetic by focusing on a single topic, creating a bridge to reality as group members talk about the world in which they live and work, and hobbies related to the topic. Group leaders give group members acceptance and appreciation.

chapter 18 A patient diagnosed with severe dementia no longer recognizes family members and becomes anxious and agitated when they attempt reorientation. Which alternative could the nurse suggest to the family members? a. Wear large name tags. b. Focus interaction on familiar topics. c. Frequently repeat the reorientation strategies. d. Strategically place large clocks and calendars

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

Chapter 17 A person diagnosed with schizophrenia has ahd difficulty keeping a job because of arguing with coworkers and accusing them of conspiracy. Today the person shouts, "they're all plotting to destroy me" 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 frigtening c. That is not true. People here are trying to help if you will let them d. Staff members are health care professionals who are qualified to help you

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

chapter 21 After treatment for a detached retina, a victim of intimate partner violence says, My partner only abuses me when intoxicated. Ive considered leaving, but I was brought up to believe you stay together, no matter what happens. I always get an apology, and I can tell my partner feels bad after hitting me. Which nursing diagnosis applies? a. Social isolation, related to lack of community support system b. Risk for injury, related to partners physical abuse when intoxicated c. Deficient knowledge, related to resources for escape from the abusive relationship d. Disabled family coping, related to uneven distribution of power within a relationship

ANS: B Risk for injury is the priority diagnosis because the partner has already inflicted physical injury during violent episodes. The episodes are likely to become increasingly violent. Data are not present that show social isolation or disabled family coping, although both are common among victims of violence. Deficient knowledge does not apply to this patients use of defense mechanisms

chapter 24 A patient with a history of anger and impulsivity is hospitalized after an accident resulting in injuries. When in pain, the patient loudly scolds the nursing staff for not knowing enough to give me pain medicine when I need it. Which nursing intervention would best address this problem? a. Tell the patient to notify nursing staff 30 minutes before the pain returns so the medication can be prepared. b. Urge the health care provider to change the prescription for pain medication from as needed to a regular schedule. c. Tell the patient that verbal assaults on nurses will not shorten the wait for pain medication. d. Have the clinical nurse leader request a psychiatric consultation.

ANS: B Scheduling the medication at specific intervals will help the patient anticipate when the medication can be given. Receiving the medication promptly on schedule, rather than expecting nurses to anticipate the pain level, should reduce anxiety and anger. The patient cannot predict the onset of pain before it occurs.

chapter 13 Which common assessment finding would be most applicable to a patient diagnosed with any personality disorder? The patient: a. demonstrates behaviors that cause distress to self rather than to others. b. has self-esteem issues, despite his or her outward presentation. c. usually becomes psychotic when exposed to stress. d. does not experience real distress from symptoms.

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

chapter 27 Severe and persistent mental illness is characterized as a: a. mental illness with longer than 2 weeks duration. b. major ongoing mental illness marked by significant functional impairments. c. mental illness accompanied by physical impairment and severe social problems. d. major mental illness that cannot be treated to prevent deterioration of cognitive and social abilities.

ANS: B Severe and persistent mental illness has replaced the phrase chronic mental illness. Global impairments in function are evident, including social skills. Physical impairments may be present. Severe mental illness can be treated, but remissions and exacerbations are part of the course of the illness.

chapter 13 A nurse set limits for a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder. The patient tells the nurse, You used to care about me. I thought you were wonderful. Now I can see I was mistaken. Youre terrible. This outburst can be assessed as: a. denial. b. splitting. c. reaction formation. d. separation-individuation strategies.

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

chapter 21 Which rationale best explains why a nurse should be aware of personal feelings while working with a family experiencing family violence? a. Self-awareness protects ones own mental health. b. Strong negative feelings interfere with assessment and judgment. c. Strong positive feelings lead to underinvolvement with the victim. d. Positive feelings promote the development of sympathy for patients

ANS: B Strong negative feelings cloud the nurses judgment and interfere with assessment and intervention, no matter how well the nurse tries to cover or deny personal feelings. Strong positive feelings lead to overinvolvement with the victim

chapter 17 A patient has taken trifluoperazine (Stelazine) 30 mg/day orally for 3 years. The clinic nurse notes that the patient grimaces and constantly smacks both lips. The patients neck and shoulders twist in a slow, snakelike motion. Which problem would the nurse suspect? a. Agranulocytosis b. Tardive dyskinesia c. Tourette syndrome d. Anticholinergic effects

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 observed. These symptoms are frequently not reversible, even when the drug is discontinued. The scenario does not present evidence consistent with the other disorders mentioned. Agranulocytosis is a blood disorder. Tourette syndrome is a condition in which tics are present. Anticholinergic effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, flushing, constipation, and dry eyes.

chapter 27 A new staff nurse tells the clinical nurse specialist, Im unsure about my role when patients bring up sexual problems. Which information should the clinical nurse specialist provide? All nurses: a. qualify as sexual counselors. Each has knowledge about the biopsychosocial aspects of sexuality throughout the life cycle. b. should be able to screen for sexual dysfunction and give basic information about sexual feelings, behaviors, and myths. c. should defer questions about sex to other health care professionals because of their limited knowledge of sexuality. d. who are interested in sexual dysfunction can provide sex therapy for individuals and couples.

ANS: B The basic education of nurses provides information sufficient to qualify as a generalist to assess for sexual dysfunction and perform health teaching. Taking a detailed sexual history and providing sex therapy require additional training in sex education and counseling. Nurses with basic education are not qualified to be sexual counselors; additional education is necessary. The registered nurse may provide basic information about sexual function, but complex questions may require referral.

chapter 28 Which is the best comment for a nurse to use when beginning an interview with an older adult patient? a. Hello, [call patient by first name]. I am going to ask you some questions to get to know you better. b. Hello. My name is [nurses name]. I am a nurse. Please tell me how you would like to be addressed by the staff. c. I am going to ask you some questions about yourself. I would like to call you by your first name if you dont mind. d. You look as though you are comfortable and ready to participate in an admission interview. Shall we get started?

ANS: B The correct response identifies the nurses role and politely seeks direction for addressing the patient in a way that will make him or her comfortable. This is particularly important when a considerable age difference exists between the nurse and the patient. The nurse should address a patient by name, but should not assume the patient wants to be called by his or her first name. The nurse should always introduce himself or herself.

chapter 24 An adult patient assaults another patient and is restrained. One hour later, which statement by this restrained patient necessitates the nurses immediate attention? a. I hate all of you! b. My fingers are tingly. c. You wait until I tell my lawyer. d. It was not my fault. The other patient started it.

ANS: B The correct response indicates impaired circulation and necessitates the nurses immediate attention. The incorrect responses indicate that the patient has continued aggressiveness and agitation.

chapter 22 A survivor in the long-term reorganization phase of the rape trauma syndrome has experienced intrusive thoughts of the rape and developed a fear of being alone. Which finding demonstrates this survivor has made improvement? The survivor: a. temporarily withdraws from social situations. b. plans coping strategies for fearful situations. c. uses increased activity to reduce fear. d. expresses a desire to be with others.

ANS: B The correct response shows a willingness and ability to take personal action to reduce the disabling fear. The incorrect responses demonstrate continued ineffective coping

chapter 27 A patient diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness lives independently. This patient has command hallucinations and shouts warnings to neighbors. After a short hospitalization, the patient is prohibited from returning to the apartment. The landlord says, You cant come back here. You cause too much trouble. What problem is the patient experiencing? a. Grief b. Stigma c. Recidivism d. Lack of insurance parity

ANS: B The inability to obtain shelter because of negative attitudes about mental illness is an example of stigma. Stigma is defined as damage to reputation, shame, and ridicule society places on mental illness. Data are not present to identify grief as the patients problem. Recidivism refers to repetition of a previous offense. Insurance parity is not relevant to this scenario

chapter 18 Consider these health problems: Lewy body disease, Pick disease, and Korsakoff syndrome. Which term unifies these problems? a. Intoxication b. Dementia c. Delirium d. Amnesia

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

chapter 13 A nurse in the emergency department tells an adult, Your mother had a severe stroke. The adult tearfully says, Who will take care of me now? My mother always told me what to do, what to wear, and what to eat. I need someone to reassure me when I get anxious. Which term best describes this behavior? a. Histrionic b. Dependent c. Narcissistic d. Borderline

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

chapter 18 In a sad voice, a patient tells the nurse of the recent deaths of a spouse of 50 years as well as an adult child in an automobile accident. The patient has no other family and only a few friends in the community. What is the priority nursing diagnosis? a. Spiritual distress, related to being angry with God for taking the family b. Risk for suicide, related to recent deaths of significant others c. Anxiety, related to sudden and abrupt lifestyle changes d. Social isolation, related to loss of existing family

ANS: B The patient appears to be experiencing normal grief related to the loss of the family; however, because of age and social isolation, the risk for suicide should be determined and has high priority. No defining characteristics exist for the diagnosis of anxiety or spiritual distress. Risk for suicide is a higher priority than social isolation.

chapter 28 A 79-year-old white man tells a visiting nurse, Ive been feeling down lately. My family and friends are all dead. My money is running out, and my health is failing. The nurse should analyze this comment as: a. normal negativity of older adults. b. evidence of suicide risk. c. a cry for sympathy. d. normal grieving.

ANS: B The patient describes the loss of significant others, economic insecurity, and declining health. He describes mood alteration and expresses the thought that he has little to live for. Combined with his age, sex, and single status, each is a risk factor for suicide. Older adult white men have the highest risk for completed suicide.

chapter 21 An older adult diagnosed with dementia lives with family and attends day care. After observing poor hygiene, the nurse at the center talks with the patients adult child. This caregiver becomes defensive and says, It takes all my time and energy to care for my mother. Shes awake all night. I never get any sleep. Which nursing intervention has priority? a. Teach the caregiver more about the effects of dementia. b. Secure additional resources for the mothers evening and night care. c. Support the caregiver to grieve the loss of the mothers ability to function. d. Teach the family how to give physical care more effectively and efficiently.

ANS: B The patients child and family were coping with care until the patient began to stay awake at night. The family needs assistance with evening and night care to resume their pre-crisis state of functioning. Secondary prevention calls for the nurse to mobilize community resources to relieve overwhelming stress. The other interventions may then be accomplished.

chapter 24 A patient being admitted suddenly pulls a knife from a coat pocket and threatens, I will kill anyone who tries to get near me. An emergency code is called. The patient is safely disarmed and placed in seclusion. Justification for the use of seclusion is that the patient: a. evidences a thought disorder, rendering rational discussion ineffective. b. presents a clear and present danger to others. c. presents a clear escape risk. d. is psychotic.

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

chapter 22 A victim of a sexual assault that occurred approximately 1 hour earlier sits in the emergency department rocking back and forth and repeatedly saying, I cant believe Ive been raped. This behavior is characteristic of which phase of the rape trauma syndrome? a. Anger phase b. Acute phase c. Outward adjustment phase d. Long-term reorganization phase

ANS: B The victims response is typical of the acute phase and evidences cognitive, affective, and behavioral disruptions. The response is immediate and does not include a display of behaviors suggestive of the outward adjustment, long-term reorganization, or anger phases.

chapter 13 What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder who has made threats against staff, ripped art off the walls, and thrown objects? a. Disturbed sensory perceptionauditory b. Risk for other-directed violence c. Ineffective denial d. Ineffective coping

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

Chapter 17 A nurse observes a patient who is diagnosed with schizophrenia. The patient is standing immobile, facing the wall with one arm extended in a salute. The patient remains immobile in this position for 15 minutes, moving only when the nurse gently lowers the arm. What is the name of this phenomenon? a. Echolalia b. Waxy flexibility c. Depersonalization d. Thought withdrawal

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

chapter 24 A patient with burn injuries has had good coping skills for several weeks. Today, a new nurse is poorly organized and does not follow the patients usual schedule is. By mid-afternoon, the patient is angry and loudly complains to the nurse manager. Which is the nurse managers best response? a. Explain the reasons for the disorganization, and take over the patients care for the rest of the shift. b. Acknowledge and validate the patients distress and ask, What would you like to have happen? c. Apologize and explain that the patient will have to accept the situation for the rest of the shift. d. Ask the patient to control the anger and explain that allowances must be made for new staff members

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

chapter 21 A nurse visits the home of an 11-year-old child and finds the child caring for three younger siblings. Both parents are at work. The child says, I want to go to school, but we cant afford a babysitter. It doesnt matter; Im too dumb to learn. What preliminary assessment is evident? a. Insufficient data are present to make an assessment. b. Child and siblings are experiencing neglect. c. Children are at high risk for sexual abuse. d. Children are experiencing physical abuse

ANS: B child is experiencing neglect when the parents take away the opportunity to attend school. The other children may also be experiencing physical neglect, but more data should be gathered before making the actual assessment. The information presented does not indicate a high risk for sexual abuse, and no concrete evidence of physical abuse is present.

chapter 18 Which description best applies to a hallucination? A patient: a. looks at shadows on a wall and says, I see scary faces. b. states, I feel bugs crawling on my legs and biting me. c. becomes anxious when the nurse leaves his or her bedside. d. tries to hit the nurse when vital signs are taken.

ANS: B hallucination is a false sensory perception occurring without a corresponding sensory stimulus. Feeling bugs on the body when none are present is a tactile hallucination. Misinterpreting shadows as faces is an illusion. An illusion is a misinterpreted sensory perception. The incorrect options are examples of behaviors that sometimes occur during delirium and are related to fluctuating levels of awareness and misinterpreted stimuli.

chapter 28 An 80-year-old patient has difficulty walking because of arthritis and says, Its awful to be old. Every day is a struggle. No one cares about old people. Which is the nurses most therapeutic response? a. Everyone here cares about old people. Thats why we work here. b. It sounds like youre having a difficult time. Tell me about it. c. Lets not focus on the negative. Tell me something good. d. You are still able to get around, and your mind is alert.

ANS: B The nurse uses empathic understanding to permit the patient to express frustration and clarify the struggle for the nurse. The other options are nontherapeutic and block communication

chapter 28 An older patient drinks a six-pack of beer daily. The patient tells the community health nurse, Ive been having trouble with my arthritis lately, so I take acetaminophen four times a day for pain. What are the nurses priority interventions? Select all that apply. a. Inquiring about sleep disturbances caused by mixing alcohol and analgesic medications. b. Determining the safety of the daily acetaminophen dose the patient is ingesting. c. Advising the patient of harmful effects of alcohol and acetaminophen on the liver. d. Suggesting an increase in the acetaminophen dose because alcohol causes faster excretion. e. Assessing the patient for declining functional status associated with medication-induced dementia.

ANS: B, C The nurse should be concerned with the patients use of alcohol and acetaminophen because the toxicity of acetaminophen is enhanced by alcohol and by the age-related decrease in clearance. The nurse must determine whether the acetaminophen dose is within safe limits or is excessive and provide this information to the patient. Next, the nurse must provide health education regarding the danger of combined use of acetaminophen and alcohol. The patient will need to discontinue or reduce alcohol intake. Another analgesic with less hepatotoxicity could be used. Additional acetaminophen would cause greater liver damage. The scenario does not suggest dementia.

chapter 28 Which beliefs facilitate provision of safe, effective care for older adult patients? Select all that apply. a. Sexual interest declines with aging. b. Older adults are able to learn new tasks. c. Aging results in a decline in restorative sleep. d. Older adults are prone to become crime victims. e. Older adults are usually lonely and socially isolated.

ANS: B, C, D Myths about aging are common and can negatively impact the quality of care older patients receive. Older individuals are more prone to become crime victims. A decline in restorative sleep occurs as one ages. Learning continues long into life. These factors affect care delivery.

chapter 28 A nurse assessing an older adult patient for depression should include questions about mood as well as which other symptoms? Select all that apply. a. Increased appetite b. Sleep pattern changes c. Anhedonia and anergia d. Increased social isolation e. Increased concern with bodily functions

ANS: B, C, D, E These symptoms are often noted in older adult patients experiencing depression. Somatic symptoms are often present but are missed by nurses as being related to depression. Anorexia, rather than hyperphagia, is observed in major depressive disorder. Low self-esteem is more often associated with major depressive disorder.

After assessing a victim of sexual assault, which terms could the nurse use in the documentation? Select all that apply. a. Alleged b. Reported c. Penetration d. Intercourse e. Refused f. Declined

ANS: B, C, F The nurse should refrain from using pejorative language when documenting assessments of victims of sexual assault. Reported should be used instead of alleged. Penetration should be used instead of intercourse. Declined should be used instead of refused.

chapter 13 A nurse plans the care for an individual diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Which characteristic behaviors will the nurse expect? Select all that apply. a. Reclusive behavior b. Callous attitude c. Perfectionism d. Aggression e. Clinginess f. Anxiety

ANS: B, D Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders characteristically demonstrate manipulative, exploitative, aggressive, callous, and guilt-instilling behaviors. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders are more extroverted than reclusive, rarely show anxiety, and rarely demonstrate clinging or dependent behaviors. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorders are more likely to be impulsive than to be perfectionists.

chapter 22 Which activities are in the scope of practice of a sexual assault nurse examiner? Select all that apply. a. Requiring HIV testing of a victim b. Collecting and preserving evidence c. Providing long-term counseling for rape victims d. Obtaining signed consents for photographs and examinations e. Providing pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease prophylaxis

ANS: B, D, E HIV testing is not mandatory for a victim of sexual assault. Long-term counseling would be provided by other members of the team. The other activities would be included within this practice role.

chapter 17 A nurse at the mental health clinic plans a series of psychoeducational groups for persons diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which two topics would take priority? a. How to complete an application for employment b. The importance of correctly taking your medication c. How to dress when attending community events d. How to give and receive compliments e. Ways to quit smoking

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

chapter 21 Several children are seen in the emergency department for treatment of illnesses and injuries. Which finding would create a high index of suspicion for child abuse? The child who has: a. repeated middle ear infections. b. severe colic. c. bite marks. d. croup.

ANS: C Injuries such as immersion or cigarette burns, facial fractures, whiplash, bite marks, traumatic injuries, bruises, and fractures in various stages of healing suggest the possibility of abuse. In older children, vague complaints such as back pain may also be suspicious. Ear infections, colic, and croup are not problems induced by violence.

chapter 18 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.

chapter 21 An older adult diagnosed with dementia lives with family and attends a day care center. A nurse at the day care center notices the adult has a disheveled appearance, a strong odor of urine, and bruises on the limbs and back. What type of abuse might be occurring? a. Psychological b. Financial c. Physical d. Sexual

ANS: C The assessment of physical abuse is supported by the nurses observation of bruises. Physical abuse includes evidence of improper care, as well as physical endangerment behaviors such as reckless behavior toward a vulnerable person that could lead to serious injury. No data substantiate the other options.

chapter 21 An adult tells the nurse, My partner abuses me most often when drinking. The drinking has increased lately, but I always get an apology afterward and a box of candy. Ive considered leaving but havent been able to bring myself to actually do it. Which phase in the cycle of violence prevents the patient from leaving? a. Tension building b. Acute battering c. Honeymoon d. Recovery

ANS: C The honeymoon stage is characterized by kindly, loving behaviors toward the abused spouse when the perpetrator feels remorseful. The victim believes the promises and drops plans to leave or seek legal help. The tension-building stage is characterized by minor violence in the form of abusive verbalization or pushing. The acute battering stage involves the abuser beating the victim. The violence cycle does not include a recovery stage.

chapter 22 . A rape victim tells the nurse, I should not have been out on the street alone. Which is the nurses most therapeutic response? a. Rape can happen anywhere. b. Blaming yourself only increases your anxiety and discomfort. c. You believe this would not have happened if you had not been alone? d. You are right. You should not have been alone on the street at night.

ANS: C A reflective communication technique is helpful. Looking at ones role in the event serves to explain events that the victim would otherwise find incomprehensible. The incorrect options discount the victims perceived role and interfere with further discussion.

chapter 24 A confused older adult patient in a skilled care facility is sleeping. The nurse enters the room quietly and touches the bed to see if it is wet. The patient awakens and hits the nurse in the face. Which statement best explains the patients action? a. Older adult patients often demonstrate exaggerations of behaviors used earlier in life. b. Crowding in skilled care facilities increases individual tendencies toward violence. c. The patient interpreted the health care workers behavior as potentially harmful. d. This patient learned violent behavior by watching other patients act out.

ANS: C Confused patients are not always able to evaluate accurately the actions of others. This patient behaved as though provoked by the intrusive actions of the staff member.

Chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, My co-workers are out to get me. I also saw two doctors plotting to overdose me. How does this patient perceive the environment? a. Disorganized b. Unpredictable c. Dangerous d. Bizarre

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

chapter 24 A cognitively impaired patient has been a widow for 30 years. This patient is frantically trying to leave the unit, saying, I have to go home to cook dinner before my husband arrives from work. To intervene with validation therapy, the nurse should first say: a. You must come away from the door. b. You have been a widow for many years. c. You want to go home to prepare your husbands dinner? d. Was your husband angry if you did not have dinner ready on time?

ANS: C Validation therapy meets the patient where she or he is at the moment and acknowledges the patients wishes. Validation does not seek to redirect, reorient, or probe. The incorrect options do not validate the patients feelings.

chapter 13 A patient diagnosed with a personality disorder has used manipulation to get his or her needs met. The staff decides to apply limit-setting interventions. What is the correct rationale for this action? a. It provides an outlet for feelings of anger and frustration. b. It respects the patients wishes so assertiveness will develop. c. External controls are necessary while internal controls are developed. d. Anxiety is reduced when staff members assume responsibility for the patients behavior.

ANS: C A lack of internal controls leads to manipulative behaviors such as lying, cheating, conning, and flattering. To protect the rights of others, external controls must be consistently maintained until the patient is able to behave appropriately.

chapter 13 What is an appropriate initial outcome for a patient diagnosed with a personality disorder who frequently manipulates others? The patient will: a. identify when feeling angry. b. use manipulation only to get legitimate needs met. c. acknowledge manipulative behavior when it is called to his or her attention. d. accept fulfillment of his or her requests within an hour rather than immediately.

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

chapter 18 An older adult was stopped by police for driving through a red light. When asked for a drivers license, the adult hands the police officer a pair of sunglasses. What sign of dementia is evident? a. Aphasia b. Apraxia c. Agnosia d. Memory impairment

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. No evidence of memory loss is revealed in this scenario.

chapter 24 A patient with severe injuries is irritable, angry, and belittles the nurses. As a nurse changes a dressing, the patient screams, Dont touch me! You are so stupid. You will make it worse! Which intervention uses a cognitive technique to help this patient? a. Discontinue the dressing change without comments and leave the room. b. Stop the dressing change, saying, Perhaps you would like to change your own dressing. c. Continue the dressing change, saying, Do you know this dressing change is needed so your wound will not get infected? d. Continue the dressing change, saying, Unfortunately, you have no choice. Your doctor ordered this dressing change.

ANS: C Anger is cognitively driven. The correct answer helps the patient test his cognitions and may help lower his anger. The incorrect options will escalate the patients anger by belittling or escalating the patients sense of powerlessness

chapter 21 Which referral is most appropriate for a woman who is severely beaten by her husband, has no relatives or friends in the community, is afraid to return home, and has limited financial resources? a. Support group b. Law enforcement c. Womens shelter d. Vocational counseling

ANS: C Because the woman has no safe place to go, referral to a shelter is necessary. The shelter will provide other referrals as necessary.

chapter 28 When making a distinction as to whether a patient is experiencing confusion related to depression or dementia, what information would be most important for the nurse to consider? a. The patient with dementia is persistently angry and hostile. b. Early morning agitation and hyperactivity occur in dementia. c. Confusion seems to worsen at night when dementia is present. d. A patient who is depressed is constantly preoccupied with somatic symptoms.

ANS: C Both dementia and depression in older adults may produce symptoms of confusion. Noting whether the confusion seems to increase at night, which occurs more often with dementia than with depression, will help distinguish whether depression or dementia is producing the confused behavior. The other options are not necessarily true.

chapter 18 5. What is the priority intervention for a patient diagnosed with delirium who has fluctuating levels of consciousness, disturbed orientation, and perceptual alterations? a. Avoidance of physical contact b. High level of sensory stimulation c. Careful observation and supervision d. Application of wrist and ankle restraints

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

chapter 21 An 11-year-old child is absent from school to care for siblings while the parents work. The family cannot afford a babysitter. When asked about the parents, the child reluctantly says, My parents dont like me. They call me stupid and say I never do anything right. Which type of abuse is likely? a. Sexual b. Physical c. Emotional d. Economic

ANS: C Examples of emotional abuse include having an adult demean a childs worth or frequently criticize or belittle a child. No data support physical battering or endangerment, sexual abuse, or economic abuse.

chapter 27 The father of a child diagnosed with schizophrenia says, I lost my job, so we have no health insurance. The mother says, I must watch this child all the time. Without supervision, our child becomes violent and destroys furniture. The sibling says, My parents dont pay very much attention to me. These comments signify: a. life-cycle stressors. b. psychobiologic issues. c. family burden of mental illness. d. stigma associated with mental illness.

ANS: C Family burden refers to the meaning that the experience of living with a person who is mentally ill has for families. The stressors mentioned are not related to live-cycle issues. The stressors described are psychosocial. Stigma refers to shame and ridicule associated with mental illness.

chapter 18 An older adult patient in the intensive care unit has visual and auditory illusions. Which intervention will be most helpful? a. Place large clocks and calendars on the wall. b. Place personally meaningful objects in view. c. Use the patients glasses and hearing aids. d. Keep the room brightly lit at all times

ANS: C 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.

chpater 18 What is the priority need for a patient diagnosed with late-stage dementia? a. Promotion of self-care activities b. Meaningful verbal communication c. Maintenance of nutrition and hydration d. Prevention of the patient from wandering

ANS: C 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.

chapter 27 Health maintenance and promotion efforts for patients diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness should include education about the importance of regular: a. home safety inspections. b. monitoring of self-care abilities. c. screening for cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. d. determination of adequacy of a patients support system.

ANS: C Individuals diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness have an increased prevalence of medical disorders. Patients should be taught the importance of regular visits to a primary care physician for screening for these illnesses. Home safety inspections are more often suggested for patients with physical impairments. Caregivers and family members usually evaluate self-care abilities, rather than the patient. Assessment of a patients support system is not usually considered part of health promotion and maintenance.

chapter 24 A patient is pacing the hall near the nurses station and swearing loudly. An appropriate initial intervention for the nurse would be to address the patient by name and say: a. Hey, whats going on? b. Please quiet down immediately. c. Id like to talk with you about how youre feeling right now. d. You must go to your room and try to get control of yourself.

ANS: C Intervention should begin with an analysis of the patient and situation. With this response, the nurse is attempting to hear the patients feelings and concerns, which leads to the next step of planning an intervention. The incorrect responses are authoritarian, creating a power struggle between the patient and nurse.

chapter 13 A nurse reports to the interdisciplinary team that a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder lies to other patients, verbally abuses a patient diagnosed with dementia, and flatters the primary nurse. This patient is detached and superficial during counseling sessions. Which behavior most clearly warrants limit setting? a. Flattering the nurse b. Lying to other patients c. Verbal abuse of another patient d. Detached superficiality during counseling

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

chapter 13 The most challenging nursing intervention for patients diagnosed with personality disorders who use manipulation to get their needs met is: a. supporting behavioral change. b. monitoring suicide attempts. c. maintaining consistent limits. d. using aversive therapy.

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

chapter 27 Which nursing diagnosis is likely to apply to a homeless individual diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness? a. Insomnia b. Substance abuse c. Chronic low self-esteem d. Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome

ANS: C Many individuals with severe mental illness do not live with their families and are homeless. Life on the street or in a shelter has a negative influence on the individuals self-esteem, making this nursing diagnosis one that should be considered. Insomnia may be noted in some patients but is not a universal problem. Substance abuse is not an approved North American Nursing Diagnosis Association International (NANDA-I) diagnosis. Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome refers to persistent disorientation, which is not observed in a majority of the homeless population.

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

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

chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has auditory hallucinations, delusions of grandeur, poor personal hygiene, and motor agitation. Which assessment finding would the nurse regard as a negative symptom of schizophrenia? a. Auditory hallucinations b. Delusions of grandeur c. Poor personal hygiene d. Motor agitation

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 distractors are positive symptoms of schizophrenia.

chapter 21 . An adult has recently been absent from work for 3-day periods on several occasions. Each time, this person returns to work wearing dark glasses. Facial and body bruises are apparent. What is the occupational health nurses priority question? a. Do you drink excessively? b. Did your partner beat you? c. How did this happen to you? d. What did you do to deserve this?

ANS: C Obtaining the persons explanation is necessary. If the explanation does not match the injuries or if the victim minimizes the injuries, abuse should be suspected.

chapter 24 . Which medication should a nurse administer to provide immediate intervention for a psychotic patient whose aggressive behavior continues to escalate despite verbal intervention? a. lithium (Eskalith) b. trazodone (Desyrel) c. olanzapine (Zyprexa) d. valproic acid (Depakene)

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

chapter 27 Before working with patients regarding sexual concerns, a prerequisite for providing nonjudgmental care is: a. sympathy. b. assertiveness training. c. sexual self-awareness. d. effective communication.

ANS: C Only when a nurse has accepted his or her own feelings and values related to sexuality can he or she provide fully nonjudgmental care to a patient. If the nurse is uncomfortable, the patient might misinterpret discomfort as disapproval. The distractors are not prerequisites.

chapter 13 Consider these comments made to three different nurses by a patient diagnosed with an antisocial personality disorder: Youre a better nurse than the day shift nurse said you were; Another nurse said you dont do your job right; You think youre perfect, but Ive seen you make three mistakes. Collectively, these interactions can be assessed as: a. seductive. b. detached. c. manipulative. d. guilt producing.

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

chapter 24 A patient diagnosed with pneumonia has been hospitalized for 4 days. Family members describe the patient as a difficult person who finds fault with others. The patient verbally abuses nurses for providing poor care. The most likely explanation for this behavior lies in: a. poor childrearing that did not teach respect for others. b. automatic thinking, leading to cognitive distortion. c. personality style that externalizes problems. d. delusions that others wish to deliver harm.

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

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has taken fluphenazine (Prolixin) 5 mg orally twice daily for 3 weeks. The nurse now assesses a shuffling, propulsive gait; a masklike face; and drooling. Which term applies to these symptoms? a. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome b. Hepatocellular effects c. Pseudoparkinsonism d. Akathisia

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

chapter 18 Two patients in a residential care facility are diagnosed with dementia. One shouts to the other, Move along, youre blocking the road. The other patient turns, shakes a fist, and shouts, I know what youre up to; youre trying to steal my car. What is the nurses best action? a. Administer one dose of an antipsychotic medication to both patients. b. Reinforce reality. Say to the patients, Walk along in the hall. This is not a traffic intersection. c. Separate and distract the patients. Take one to the day room and the other to an activities area. d. Step between the two patients and say, Please quiet down. We do not allow violence here.

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

Chapter 17 A newly admitted patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, The voices are bothering me. They yell and tell me Im 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. I will stay with you. Focus on what we are talking about, not the voices. d. Forget the voices. Ask some other patients to sit and talk with you.

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. Asking other patients to talk incorrectly shifts responsibility for intervention from the nurse to other patients.

chapter 24 Which scenario predicts the highest risk for directing violent behavior toward others? a. Major depressive disorder with delusions of worthlessness b. Obsessive-compulsive disorder; performing many rituals c. Paranoid delusions of being followed by a military attack team d. Completion of alcohol withdrawal and beginning a rehabilitation program

ANS: C The correct answer illustrates the greatest disruption of ability to perceive reality accurately. People who feel persecuted may strike out against those believed to be persecutors. The patients identified in the distractors have better reality-testing ability

chapter 24 After an assault by a patient, a nurse has difficulty sleeping, startles easily, and is preoccupied with the incident. The nurse says, I dread facing potentially violent patients. Which response would be the most urgent reason for this nurse to seek supervision? a. Startle reactions b. Difficulty sleeping c. A wish for revenge d. Preoccupation with the incident

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

chapter 22 When working with rape victims, immediate care focuses first on: a. collecting evidence. b. notifying law enforcement. c. helping the victim feel safe. d. documenting the victims comments.

ANS: C The first focus of care is helping the victim feel safe. An already vulnerable individual may view assessment questions and the physical procedures as intrusive violations of privacy and even physically threatening. The patient might decline to have evidence collected or to involve law enforcement.

chapter 13 As a nurse prepares to administer a medication to a patient diagnosed with a borderline personality disorder, the patient says, Just leave it on the table. Ill take it when I finish combing my hair. What is the nurses best response? a. Reinforce this assertive action by the patient. Leave the medication on the table as requested. b. Respond to the patient, Im worried that you might not take it. I will come back later. c. Say to the patient, I must watch you take the medication. Please take it now. d. Ask the patient, Why dont you want to take your medication now?

ANS: C The individual with a borderline personality disorder characteristically demonstrates manipulative, splitting, and self-destructive behaviors. Consistent limit setting is vital for the patients safety, as well as to prevent splitting other staff members. Why questions are not therapeutic.

chapter 18 . A patient experiencing fluctuating levels of awareness, confusion, and disturbed orientation shouts, Bugs are crawling on my legs! Get them off! Which problem is the patient experiencing? a. Aphasia b. Dystonia c. Tactile hallucinations d. Mnemonic disturbance

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

chapter 13 . A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and a history of self-mutilation has now begun dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) on an outpatient basis. Counseling focuses on self-harm behavior management. Today the patient telephones to say, Im feeling empty and want to cut myself. The nurse should: a. arrange for emergency inpatient hospitalization. b. send the patient to the crisis intervention unit for 8 to 12 hours. c. assist the patient to identify the trigger situation and choose a coping strategy. d. advise the patient to take an antianxiety medication to decrease the anxiety level.

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

chapter 27 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia tells the community mental health nurse, I threw away my pills because they interfere with Gods voice. The nurse identifies the cause of the patients ineffective management of the medication regimen as: a. inadequate discharge planning. b. poor therapeutic alliance with clinicians. c. impaired reasoning secondary to schizophrenia. d. dislike of the side effects of antipsychotic medications.

ANS: C The patients ineffective management of the medication regimen is most closely related to impaired reasoning. The patient believes in being an exalted personage who hears Gods voice, rather than an individual with a serious mental disorder who needs medication to control symptoms. Data do not suggest that any of the other factors often relate to medication nonadherence.

chapter 28 A nurse and social worker co-lead a reminiscence group for eight young-old adults. Which activity is most appropriate to include in the group? a. Singing a song from World War II b. Learning how to join an online social network c. Discussing national leadership during the Vietnam War d. Identifying the most troubling story in todays newspaper

ANS: C Young-old adults are persons 65 to 74 years of age. These adults were attuned to conflicts in national leadership associated with the Vietnam War. Reminiscence groups share memories of the past. Learning how to join a social network would not be an aspect of reminiscence. Singing a song from World War II is more appropriate for an elite old reminiscence group. The other incorrect option is less relevant to this age group.

chapter 27 An adult has been feeling significant tension since losing a home through foreclosure. This person goes to a park, feeds the birds, and then impulsively exposes himself to a group of parents and children. Which term applies to this behavior? a. Voyeurism b. Frotteurism c. Exhibitionism d. Sexual masochism

ANS: C Exhibitionism is obtaining sexual pleasure from exposing ones genitalia to unsuspecting strangers. Voyeurism refers to obtaining sexual pleasure from observing people who are naked. Frotteurism is associated with obtaining sexual arousal by rubbing ones genitals against an unsuspecting person. Sexual masochism refers to deriving sexual pleasure from being humiliated, beaten, or otherwise made to suffer.

chapter 13 Which characteristic of individuals diagnosed with personality disorders makes it most necessary for staff to schedule frequent meetings? a. Ability to achieve true intimacy b. Flexibility and adaptability to stress c. Ability to evoke interpersonal conflict d. Inability to develop trusting relationships

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

chapter 27 The parent of an adult diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness asks the nurse, Why are you making a referral to that vocational rehabilitation program? My child wont ever be able to hold a job. Which is the nurses best reply? a. We make this referral to continue eligibility for federal funding. b. Are you concerned that were trying to make your child too independent? c. If you think the program would be detrimental, we can postpone it for a time. d. Most patients are capable of employment at some level, competitive or supported.

ANS: D Studies have shown that most patients who complete vocational rehabilitation programs are capable of some level of employment; also they demonstrate significant improvement in assertiveness and work behaviors, as well as decreased depression.

chapter 21 An adult has recently been absent from work for 3-day periods on several occasions. Each time, the individual returns to work wearing dark glasses. Facial and body bruises are apparent. What is the occupational health nurses priority assessment? a. Interpersonal relationships b. Work responsibilities c. Socialization skills d. Physical injuries

ANS: D The individual should be assessed for possible battering. Physical injuries are abuse indicators and are the primary focus for assessment. No data support the other options.

chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has auditory hallucinations. The patient 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. Do the messages from the voice frighten you? c. Do you recognize the voice speaking to you? d. What is the voice telling you to do?

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

chapter 24 A patient is hospitalized after an arrest for breaking windows in the home of a former domestic partner. The history reveals childhood abuse by a punitive parent, torturing family pets and an arrest for disorderly conduct. Which nursing diagnosis has priority? a. Risk for injury b. Post-trauma response c. Disturbed thought processes d. Risk for other-directed violence

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

chapter 24 A patient sits in silence for 20 minutes after a therapy appointment, appearing tense and vigilant. The patient abruptly stands and paces back and forth, clenching and unclenching fists, and then stops and stares in the face of a staff member. The patient is: a. demonstrating withdrawal. b. working through angry feelings. c. attempting to use relaxation strategies. d. exhibiting clues to potential aggression.

ANS: D The description of the patients behavior shows the classic signs of someone whose potential for aggression is increasing.

chapter 22 A person was abducted and raped at gunpoint. The nurse observes this person is confused, talks rapidly in disconnected phrases, and is unable to concentrate or make simple decisions. What is the persons level of anxiety? a. Weak b. Mild c. Moderate d. Severe

ANS: D Anxiety is the result of a personal threat to the victims safety and security. In this case, the persons symptoms of rapid, dissociated speech, confusion, and indecisiveness indicate severe anxiety. Weak is not a level of anxiety. Mild and moderate levels of anxiety allow the person to function at a higher level.

chapter 27 A patient tells the nurse, My sexual functioning is normal when my partner wears lace. Without it, Im not interested in sex. This comment evidences: a. exhibitionism. b. voyeurism. c. pedophilia. d. fetishism.

ANS: D A person with a sexual fetish finds it necessary to have some external object present, in fantasy or in reality, to be sexually satisfied. Exhibitionism refers to exposing ones genitalia publicly. Voyeurism refers to viewing others in intimate situations. Pedophilia refers to the preference for having sexual relations with a child.

Chapter 18 Which environmental adjustment should the nurse make for a patient experiencing delirium with perceptual alterations? a. Keep the patient by the nurses desk while the patient is awake. Provide rest periods in a room with a television on. b. Light the room brightly, day and night. Awaken the patient hourly to assess mental status. c. Maintain soft lighting day and night. Keep a radio on low volume continuously. d. Provide a well-lit room without glare or shadows. Limit noise and stimulation.

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

chapter 13 When preparing to interview a patient diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, a nurse can anticipate the assessment findings will include: a. preoccupation with minute details; perfectionism. b. charm, drama, seductiveness; seeking admiration. c. difficulty being alone; indecisiveness, submissiveness. d. grandiosity, attention seeking, and arrogance.

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

chapter 27 An adult says, When I was a child, I took medication because I couldnt follow my teachers directions. I stopped taking it when I was about 13. I still have trouble getting organized, which causes difficulty doing my job. Which disorder is most likely? a. Stress intolerance disorder b. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) c. Borderline personality disorder d. Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

ANS: D Adult ADHD is usually diagnosed in early life and treated until adolescence. Treatment is often stopped because professionals think the disorder resolves itself because the hyperactive impulsive behaviors may diminish; the inattentive and disorganized behaviors tend to persist, however. Stress intolerance disorder is not found in the DSM-5. The scenario description is inconsistent with generalized anxiety disorder and borderline personality disorder.

chapter 28 An advance directive gives valid direction to health care providers when a patient is: a. aggressive. b. dehydrated. c. unable to verbally communicate. d. unable to make decisions for himself or herself.

ANS: D Advance directives are invoked when patients are unable to make their own decisions. Aggression, dehydration, or an inability to speak does not mean the patient is unable to make a decision.

chapter 18 A patient diagnosed with stage 2 Alzheimer disease calls the police saying, An intruder is in my home. Police investigate and discover the patient misinterpreted a reflection in the mirror as an intruder. This phenomenon can be assessed as: a. hyperorality. b. aphasia. c. apraxia. d. agnosia.

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.

chapter 22 The nursing diagnosis rape trauma syndrome applies to a rape victim in the emergency department. Which outcome should occur before the patients discharge? a. Patient states, I feel safe and entirely relaxed. b. Memory of the rape is less vivid and frightening. c. Physical symptoms of pain and discomfort are no longer present. d. Patient agrees to keep a follow-up appointment with the rape crisis center.

ANS: D Agreeing to keep a follow-up appointment is a realistic short-term outcome. The incorrect options are unlikely to occur during the limited time the victim is in the emergency department.

chapter 22 A rape victim asks an emergency department nurse, Maybe I did something to cause this attack. Was it my fault? Which response by the nurse is the most therapeutic? a. Pose questions about the rape, helping the patient explore why it happened. b. Reassure the victim that the outcome of the situation will be positive. c. Make decisions for the victim because of the temporary confusion. d. Support the victim to separate issues of vulnerability from blame.

ANS: D Although the victim may have made choices that increased vulnerability, the victim is not to blame for the rape. The incorrect options either suggest the use of a nontherapeutic communication technique or do not permit the victim to restore control. No confusion is evident

A health care provider considers which antipsychotic medication to prescribe for a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia who has auditory hallucinations and poor social functioning. The patient is also overweight and has hypertension. Which drug should the nurse advocate? a. clozapine (Clozaril) b. ziprasidone (Geodon) c. olanzapine (Zyprexa) d. aripiprazole (Abilify)

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

chapter 27 Which nursing action should occur first when preparing to work with a patient who has a problem of sexual functioning? a. Acquire knowledge of the patients sexual roles and preferences b. Develop an understanding of human sexual responses c. Assess the patients sexual functioning d. Clarify the nurses own personal values

ANS: D Before a nurse can be helpful to patients with sexual dysfunction, he or she must be aware of and comfortable with his or her own feelings about sex and sexuality. Nurses must be comfortable with the idea that patients have a right to their own values and must avoid criticism and censure.

chapter 21 An employee has recently been absent from work on several occasions. Each time, this employee returns to work wearing dark glasses. Facial and body bruises are apparent. During the occupational health nurses interview, the employee says, My partner beat me, but it was because there are problems at work. What should the nurses next action be? a. Call the police. b. Arrange for hospitalization. c. Call the adult protective agency. d. Document injuries with a body map

ANS: D Documentation of the injuries provides a basis for possible legal intervention. The abused adult will need to make the decision to involve the police. Because the worker is not an older adult and is competent, the adult protective agency is unable to assist. Admission to the hospital is not necessary.

chapter 13 A patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder self-inflicted wrist lacerations after gaining new privileges on the unit. The cause of the self-mutilation is probably related to: a. inherited disorder that manifests itself as an incapacity to tolerate stress. b. use of projective identification and splitting to bring anxiety to manageable levels. c. constitutional inability to regulate affect, predisposing to psychic disorganization. d. fear of abandonment associated with progress toward autonomy and independence

ANS: D Fear of abandonment is a central theme for most patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This fear is often exacerbated when patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder experience success or growth. The incorrect options are not associated with self-mutilation.

chapter 17 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 ones thoughts

chapter 28 An older adult patient brings a bag of medication to the clinic. The nurse finds one bottle labeled Ativan and one labeled lorazepam, and both are labeled Take two times daily. Bottles of hydrochlorothiazide, Inderal, and rofecoxib, each labeled Take one daily, are also included. Which conclusion is accurate? a. Rofecoxib should not be taken with Ativan. b. The patients blood pressure is likely to be very high. c. This patient should not self-administer any medication. d. Lorazepam and Ativan are the same drug; consequently, the dose is excessive

ANS: D Lorazepam and Ativan are generic and trade names for the same drug, creating an accidental overdose situation. The patient needs medication education and help with proper, consistent labeling of bottles. No evidence suggests that the patient is unable to self-administer medication. The distractors are not factual statements.

chapter 22 A nurse cares for a rape victim who was given flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) by the assailant. Which intervention has priority? Monitoring for: a. coma. b. seizures. c. hypotonia. d. respiratory depression.

ANS: D Monitoring for respiratory depression takes priority over hypotonia, seizures, or coma in this situation.

chapter 28 An older adult patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is being treated with sertraline (Zoloft). This medication is often chosen for older adult patients because it: a. has a high degree of sedation. b. is effective when given in smaller doses. c. has few adverse interactions with other drugs. d. is less affected by changes associated with aging.

ANS: D Older adults are particularly susceptible to side effects, so selecting a drug with a low side-effect profile is desirable. The pharmacokinetics of sertraline are less affected by changes associated with aging. The other options are either incorrect or of lesser relevance.

chapter 28 Which statement about aging provides the best rationale for focused assessment of older adult patients? a. Older adults are often socially isolated and lonely. b. As people age, they become more rigid in their thinking. c. The majority of older adults sleep more than 12 hours per day. d. The senses of vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell decline with age.

ANS: D Only the correct answer is true and cues the nurse to assess carefully the sensory functions of the older adult patient. The incorrect options are myths about aging.

chapter 17 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 nurses position of power in the relationship. d. may be identifying another persons shortcomings in order to preserve his or her own self-esteem.

ANS: D Patients with paranoid ideation often use disparaging comments to preserve ones 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.

chapter 27 A patient diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness who recently moved to a homeless shelter says, My life is out of control. Im like a leaf at the mercy of the wind. The nurse formulates the diagnosis Powerlessness. Outcomes will focus on: a. instilling hope. b. controlling anxiety. c. planning social activities. d. developing personal autonomy.

ANS: D Powerlessness is associated with feeling unable to control events in ones life. It is often associated with low self-esteem. The goal is to increase ones sense of autonomy. The scenario does not indicate hopelessness or anxiety. Socialization is not the primary need.

chapter 22 What is the primary motivator for most rapists? a. Anxiety b. Need for humiliation c. Overwhelming sexual desires d. Desire to humiliate or control others

ANS: D Rape is not a crime of sex; rather, it is a crime of power, control, and humiliation. The perpetrator wishes to subjugate the victim. The dynamics listed in the other options are not the major motivating factors for rape.

chapter 13 A therapist recently convicted of multiple counts of Medicare fraud says, Sure I overbilled. Why not? Everyone takes advantage of the government, so I did too. These statements show: a. shame. b. suspiciousness. c. superficial remorse. d. lack of guilt feelings.

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

chapter 27 A 37-year-old is involuntarily committed to outpatient treatment after sexually molesting a 12-year-old child. The patient says, That girl looked like she was 19 years old. Which defense mechanism is this patient using? a. Denial b. Identification c. Displacement d. Rationalization

ANS: D Rationalization is used to justify upsetting behaviors by creating reasons that would allow the individual to believe that the behaviors were warranted or appropriate. The patient is rationalizing molestation of a minor. Denial is used to avoid dealing with the problems and responsibilities related to ones behaviors. Identification is incorporating the image of an emulated person and then acting, thinking, and feeling like that person. Displacement is the discharge of pent-up feelings onto something or someone else in the environment that is less threatening than the original source of the feelings.

chapter 28 Recognizing the risk for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) among older adults, nurses should provide health teaching aimed at: a. discouraging sexual expression. b. using birth control measures. c. avoiding blood transfusions. d. encouraging condom use.

ANS: D Safe sex continues to be important and should be taught to the older adult population. Because the risk for pregnancy is nonexistent in postmenopausal women, condom use is diminished, which places older adults at risk for AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases. Sexual expression is a basic human need. Little to no danger exists from blood transfusions.

chapter 13 Which statement made by a patient diagnosed with borderline personality disorder indicates the treatment plan is effective? a. I think you are the best nurse on the unit. b. Im never going to get high on drugs again. c. I hate my doctor for not giving me what I ask for. d. I felt empty and wanted to cut myself, so I called you.

ANS: D Seeking a staff member instead of impulsively self-mutilating shows an adaptive coping strategy. The incorrect responses demonstrate idealization, devaluation, and wishful thinking.

chapter 17 A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been stable for a year; however, the family now reports the patient is tense, sleeps 3 to 4 hours per night, and has difficulty concentrating. The patient says, Demons are in the basement and they can come through the floor. The nurse can correctly assess this information as an indication of: a. need for psychoeducation b. medication noncompliance c. chronic deterioration d. relapse

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 regularly taking his or her medication. Psychoeducation is more effective when the patients symptoms are stable. Chronic deterioration is not the best explanation

chapter 24 When a patients aggression quickly escalates, which principle applies to the selection of nursing interventions? a. Staff members should match the patients affective level and tone of voice. b. Ask the patient what intervention would be most helpful. c. Immediately use physical containment measures. d. Begin with the least restrictive measure possible.

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

chapter 17 A patient receiving risperidone (Risperdal) reports severe muscle stiffness at 10:30 AM. By noon, the patient is diaphoretic, drooling, and has difficulty swallowing. By 4:00 PM, vital signs are body temperature, 102.8 F; pulse, 110 beats per minute; respirations, 26 breaths per minute; and blood pressure, 150/90 mm Hg. Select the 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, low fat diet. d. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Immediately notify the health care provider

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 this scenario are not consistent with the medical problems listed in the incorrect options

Chapter 17 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.

chapter 13 The history shows that a newly admitted patient has impulsivity. The nurse would expect behavior characterized by: a. adherence to a strict moral code. b. manipulative, controlling strategies. c. postponing gratification to an appropriate time. d. little time elapsed between thought and action.

ANS: D The impulsive individual acts in haste without taking time to consider the consequences of the action. None of the other options describes impulsivity.

chapter 24 Information from a patients record that indicates marginal coping skills and the need for careful assessment of the risk for violence is a history of: a. childhood trauma. b. family involvement. c. academic problems. d. substance abuse.

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

chapter 27 A nurse prepares a plan of care for a patient diagnosed with adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which intervention should be included? a. Remind the patient of priorities and deadlines. b. Teach work-related skills such as basic computer literacy. c. Establish penalties for failing to organize and prioritize tasks. d. Give encouragement and strategies for managing and organizing.

ANS: D The nurses major responsibilities lie with encouraging the patient to learn and use necessary skills, assisting the patient to stay on task. The nurse is not an ever-present taskmaster or disciplinarian. The nurse does not teach work-related skills; vocational staff members assume those types of tasks.

chapter 17 . 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. The nurse should maintain an appropriate social distance and not touch the patient, because the patient is anxious about the inability to maintain ego boundaries and merging with or being swallowed by the environment. Physical closeness or touch could precipitate panic.

chapter 17 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. You are laughing. Tell me whats happening.

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

chapter 13 A persons spouse filed charges of battery. The person has a long history of acting-out behaviors and several arrests. Which statement by the person suggests an antisocial personality disorder? a. I have a quick temper, but I can usually keep it under control. b. Ive done some stupid things in my life, but Ive learned a lesson. c. Im feeling terrible about the way my behavior has hurt my family. d. I hit because Im tired of being nagged. My spouse deserved the beating.

ANS: D The patient with an antisocial personality disorder often impulsively acts out feelings of anger and feels no guilt or remorse. Patients with antisocial personality disorders rarely seem to learn from experience or feel true remorse. Problems with anger management and impulse control are common.

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia says, Everyone has skin lice that jump on you and contaminate your blood. Which problem is evident? a. Poverty of content b. Concrete thinking c. Neologisms d. Paranoia

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

chapter 22 A nurse working a rape telephone hotline should focus communication with callers to: a. arrange long-term counseling. b. serve as a sympathetic listener. c. obtain information to relay to the local police. d. explain immediate steps that a victim of rape should take.

ANS: D The telephone counselor establishes where the victim is and what has happened and provides the necessary information to enable the victim to decide what steps to take immediately. Long-term aftercare is not the focus until immediate problems are resolved. The victim remains anonymous. The incorrect options are inappropriate or incorrect because counselors should be empathic rather than sympathetic.

chapter 27 The manager of a health club put a hidden camera in the womens locker room and videotaped women as they showered and dressed. Which sexual dysfunction is evident? a. Frotteurism b. Exhibitionism c. Pedophilia d. Voyeurism

ANS: D Voyeurism is the viewing of others in intimate situations such as undressing, bathing, or having sexual relations. Voyeurs are often called peeping Toms. Frotteurism is touching or rubbing against a nonconsenting person to achieve sexual gratification. Exhibitionists are interested in exposing their genitals to others. Pedophiles seek sexual contact with prepubescent children.

Chapter 17 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.

chapter 17 Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia who are suspicious and withdrawn: a. universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. b. are socially disabled by the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. c. exhibit a high degree of hostility as evidenced by rejecting behavior. d. avoid relationships because they become anxious with emotional closeness.

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. No evidence suggests that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia universally fear sexual involvement with therapists. In most cases, it is not considered true that withdrawn patients with schizophrenia are socially disabled by the positive symptoms of schizophrenia or exhibit a high degree of hostility by demonstrating rejecting behavior.

chapter 22 A nurse interviews a person abducted and raped at gunpoint by an unknown assailant. The person says, I cant talk about it. Nothing happened. I have to forget! What is the persons present coping strategy? a. Somatic reaction b. Repression c. Projection d. Denial

ANS: D Disbelief is a common finding during the acute stage following sexual assault. Denial is evidence of thedisbelief. This mechanism may be unconsciously used to protect the person from the emotionally overwhelming reality of rape. The patients statements do not reflect somatic symptoms, repression, or projection.

chapter 13 For which behavior would limit setting be most essential? The patient: a. clings to the nurse and asks for advice about inconsequential matters. b. is flirtatious and provocative with staff members of the opposite sex. c. is hypervigilant and refuses to attend unit activities. d. urges a suspicious patient to hit anyone who stares.

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

chapter 18 . A patient diagnosed with dementia no longer recognizes family members. The family asks how long it will be before their family member recognizes them when they visit. What is the nurses best reply? a. Your family member will never again be able to identify you. b. I think that is a question the health care provider should answer. c. One never knows. Consciousness fluctuates in persons with dementia. d. It is disappointing when someone you love no longer recognizes you.

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