Nursing Elites

1. A client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone (BuSpar). The client asks how long it will take for the medication to start working. What is the nurse's best response?

• A. You should start feeling better within a few days.
• B. It may take 2 to 4 weeks before you notice an improvement.
• C. Buspirone works immediately to reduce anxiety symptoms.
• D. You will need to take this medication for at least a year.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Buspirone typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to become fully effective. It is essential to inform the client that it may take some time before they notice an improvement. Choice A is incorrect because buspirone does not work immediately. Choice C is also incorrect as buspirone does not provide immediate relief. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests a longer duration of treatment than necessary.

2. An anxious client expressing a fear of people and open places is admitted to the psychiatric unit. What is the most effective way for the nurse to assist this client?

• A. Plan an outing within the second week of admission.
• B. Distract the client whenever they express discomfort about being with others.
• C. Confront the client's fears and discuss the possible causes of these fears.
• D. Accompany the client outside for an increasing amount of time each day.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most effective way to assist a client with a fear of people and open places is through gradual desensitization by controlled exposure to the situation which is feared (D). This method helps the client confront their fears in a safe and supportive manner, allowing them to gradually build confidence and reduce anxiety. Planning an outing within the second week of admission (A) may be too soon and overwhelming for the client. Distracting the client whenever they express discomfort (B) does not address the underlying issue and may promote denial. Confronting the client's fears and discussing possible causes (C) could be too aggressive initially and may not be well-tolerated by the client.

3. The parents of a nuclear family attending a support group for parents of adolescents are being assessed by the nurse. According to Erikson, these parents who are adapting to middle adulthood should exhibit which characteristic?

• A. Loss of independence.
• B. Increased self-understanding.
• C. Isolation from society.
• D. Development of intimate relationships.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased self-understanding. According to Erikson's psychosocial development theory, middle adulthood is characterized by generativity, self-reflection, understanding, and acceptance. Middle-aged adults focus on guiding the next generation and finding meaning in their lives. Choices A and C are incorrect because loss of independence and isolation from society are maladaptive behaviors in middle adulthood. While developing and maintaining intimate relationships is important throughout life, the initial development of intimate relationships typically occurs during young adulthood, not middle adulthood.

4. A client is responding to auditory hallucinations and shakes a fist at a nurse and says, 'Back off, witch!' The nurse follows the client into the day room. What action should the nurse implement?

• A. Sit down in a chair near the client.
• B. Position self within an arm's length of the client.
• C. Ensure that there is physical space between the nurse and client.
• D. Move to a position that allows the client to be closest to the room's door.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In situations where a client is responding to auditory hallucinations and displaying aggressive behavior, it is crucial for the nurse to ensure physical space between themselves and the client. This action can help de-escalate the situation and prevent any potential harm to both the nurse and the client. Sitting down near the client (Choice A) may escalate the situation by invading the client's personal space. Positioning oneself within an arm's length of the client (Choice B) may increase the risk of physical confrontation. Moving closer to the room's door (Choice D) may not be appropriate as it can block the client's exit route and escalate the situation further. Therefore, ensuring physical space between the nurse and the client (Choice C) is the most appropriate action to promote safety and prevent escalation.

5. A female client refuses to take an oral hypoglycemic agent because she believes that the drug is being administered as part of an elaborate plan by the Mafia to harm her. Which nursing intervention is most important to include in this client's plan of care?

• A. Reassure the client that no one will harm her while she is in the hospital.
• B. Ask the healthcare provider to give the client the medication.
• C. Explain the importance of taking the diabetic medication.
• D. Reassess the client's mental status for thought processes and content.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Reassessing the client's mental status is the most important intervention as it is crucial to address the client's delusional thinking. By assessing the client's thought processes and content, the nurse can gain insight into the client's beliefs and tailor interventions accordingly. Reassuring the client that no harm will come to her, asking the healthcare provider to give the medication, or simply explaining the importance of taking the medication may not effectively address the underlying issue of delusional beliefs.

Similar Questions