Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a client diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which finding should the nurse expect?

• A. Hypervigilance
• B. Insomnia
• C. Flashbacks
• D. Suicidal ideation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clients with PTSD commonly exhibit symptoms such as hypervigilance, insomnia, flashbacks, difficulty concentrating, and increased irritability. Hypervigilance refers to an enhanced state of awareness and alertness, often seen in individuals with PTSD as they are constantly on guard for potential threats. Insomnia is a common sleep disturbance associated with PTSD, where individuals may have trouble falling or staying asleep. Flashbacks involve re-experiencing the traumatic event as if it is occurring in the present moment. Suicidal ideation, while a serious concern in mental health, is not a hallmark symptom specifically associated with PTSD. Therefore, the correct finding that the nurse should expect when assessing a client diagnosed with PTSD is hypervigilance.

2. In assessing a patient for signs of serotonin syndrome, which of the following symptoms would be consistent with this condition?

• A. Hypotension, bradycardia, hypothermia
• B. Hypertension, tachycardia, hyperthermia
• C. Hypotension, tachycardia, hypothermia
• D. Hypertension, bradycardia, hyperthermia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serotonin syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms: hypertension, tachycardia, and hyperthermia. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia (choice A) are not typical findings in serotonin syndrome. Hypotension, tachycardia, and hypothermia (choice C) are also not consistent with serotonin syndrome. Hypertension, bradycardia, and hyperthermia (choice D) do not align with the characteristic symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Recognizing the key symptoms of serotonin syndrome is crucial for prompt identification and intervention to prevent serious complications.

3. In pediatric mental health, there is a lack of sufficient numbers of community-based resources and providers, and there are long waiting lists for services. This has resulted in: Select one that doesn't apply.

• A. Children of color and poor economic conditions being underserved
• B. Increased stress in the family unit
• C. Markedly increased funding
• D. Premature termination of services

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The lack of resources in pediatric mental health leads to underserved populations, increased stress in the family unit, and premature termination of services. However, markedly increased funding does not align with the negative consequences of resource shortages; instead, it would be a potential solution to address the lack of resources and providers in pediatric mental health.

4. A client is experiencing a panic attack. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Remain with the client and offer reassurance.
• B. Administer an anti-anxiety medication as prescribed.
• C. Encourage the client to engage in physical activity.
• D. Encourage the client to breathe deeply and slowly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a panic attack, the immediate priority for the nurse is to provide support and reassurance to the client. Remaining with the client helps establish a sense of safety and trust, which can help calm the client during an episode of panic. Administering medication, encouraging physical activity, and deep breathing techniques are beneficial interventions, but offering reassurance and support should be the initial step to address the immediate emotional distress and anxiety experienced by the client.

5. Which response by a 15-year-old demonstrates a common symptom observed in patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder?

• A. I'm so restless. I can't seem to sit still.
• B. I spend most of my time studying. I have to get into a good college.
• C. I'm not trying to diet, but I've lost about 5 pounds in the past 5 months.
• D. I go to sleep around 11 p.m. but I'm always up by 3 a.m. and can't go back to sleep.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sleep disturbances, such as early morning awakening, are common symptoms of major depressive disorder.

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