NCLEX-RN
NCLEX Psychosocial Questions
1. Which statement best describes the pathophysiology of dementia of the Alzheimer type?
- A. There is a genetic predisposition and dysregulation of neurotransmitters.
- B. The dementia is transient and secondary to a physical imbalance or disorder.
- C. Hypoxia and decreased perfusion of select areas of the brain cause tissue damage.
- D. The presence of amyloid plaques is associated with brain tissue destruction.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In Alzheimer's disease, the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain is a hallmark feature. These plaques are associated with the destruction of brain tissue, contributing to the cognitive decline seen in dementia. Genetic predisposition and dysregulation of neurotransmitters are factors linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease, but the primary pathology lies in the amyloid plaques. Transient dementia is not characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, which is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Hypoxia and decreased perfusion are more typical of vascular dementia, where blood flow to the brain is compromised.
2. After attending group therapy, the client says, 'It helps to know that I'm not the only one with this type of problem.' Which concept does this statement reflect?
- A. Altruism
- B. Catharsis
- C. Universality
- D. Transference
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client's statement reflects the concept of universality. Universality in group therapy signifies the understanding that one is not alone in their struggles, providing a sense of commonality and support among group members facing similar challenges. Altruism in group therapy involves offering support, insight, and encouragement to others, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. Catharsis pertains to group members sharing and expressing both negative and positive emotions with each other. Transference occurs when a client inadvertently projects feelings and perceptions onto the therapist that originally belonged to someone significant in their past, impacting the therapeutic relationship.
3. A client says, 'I hear a man speaking from the corner of the room. Do you hear him, too?' Which response is best?
- A. What is he saying to you? Does it make any sense?
- B. Yes, I hear him. What do you think he is saying?
- C. No one is in the corner of the room. Can't you see that?
- D. No, I don't hear him, but that must be upsetting for you.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The best response is D: 'No, I don't hear him, but that must be upsetting for you.' This response acknowledges the client's experience without validating the hallucination. The nurse expresses empathy by acknowledging the client's feelings ('that must be upsetting for you'), showing understanding and support. Choice A focuses on the content of the hallucination, which may inadvertently reinforce the delusion. Choice B validates the hallucination by agreeing that the nurse also hears the man. Choice C denies the client's experience and can lead to further distress by invalidating their perception.
4. Which characteristic usually results in a behavior being viewed and accepted as normal?
- A. Fits within standards accepted by one's society
- B. Helps the person reduce the need for coping skills
- C. Allows the person to express feelings and thoughts
- D. Facilitates achievement of short-term and long-term goals
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Behaviors that align with the standards accepted by a society are generally viewed as normal. Societal norms and values play a significant role in defining what is considered normal behavior. Choices B, C, and D may be important aspects of an individual's functioning, but they do not solely determine whether a behavior is viewed as normal. Coping skills, expressions of feelings, and goal achievement can vary in their cultural context and societal acceptance, therefore they are not definitive indicators of normalcy.
5. Which behavioral characteristic describes the domestic abuser?
- A. Alcoholic
- B. Overconfident
- C. High tolerance for frustrations
- D. Low self-esteem
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Low self-esteem.' Domestic abusers often exhibit behaviors stemming from their own experiences of abuse, leading to a cycle of violence. They commonly have low self-esteem, which drives their need to exert control and power over their partners. Choice A, 'Alcoholic,' is not a defining behavioral characteristic of domestic abusers. Choice B, 'Overconfident,' is not typically associated with abusers who often exhibit insecurity and control issues. Choice C, 'High tolerance for frustrations,' is not a primary characteristic of domestic abusers; rather, they often have a low tolerance for situations that challenge their need for control.
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