Nursing Elites

1. A nurse is assessing a client with suspected post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which of the following findings shouldn't the nurse expect?

• A. Flashbacks
• B. Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• C. Increased arousal and hypervigilance
• D. Manic episodes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Findings in a client with PTSD include flashbacks, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, increased arousal and hypervigilance, and negative changes in thoughts and mood. Manic episodes are not typically associated with PTSD.

2. A client has been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft) and is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?

• A. I should take this medication at the same time every day.
• B. It may take several weeks for this medication to be effective.
• C. I should take this medication on an empty stomach.
• D. I should avoid eating aged cheeses and processed meats.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Sertraline (Zoloft) may take several weeks to be effective, so it is important for the client to be informed about this timeframe. This medication does not need to be taken on an empty stomach, but it can be taken with or without food. Choice A is a good practice for many medications but not specifically related to sertraline (Zoloft). Choice D is not directly related to sertraline (Zoloft) but pertains to dietary restrictions when taking MAOIs due to potential interactions with tyramine.

3. A patient with major depressive disorder is being treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The nurse should monitor the patient for which common side effect?

• A. Memory loss
• B. Hypertension
• C. Weight gain
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Memory loss, especially short-term memory loss, is a common side effect associated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). During ECT treatment, the electrical currents passed through the brain can disrupt short-term memory formation. This side effect is usually temporary, but patients should be closely monitored for any changes in memory function during and after the treatment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not commonly associated with ECT. Hypertension, weight gain, and hyperglycemia are not typically observed as side effects of ECT.

4. How do epidemiological studies contribute to improvements in care for individuals with mental disorders?

• A. Providing information about effective nursing techniques.
• B. Identifying risk factors that contribute to the development of a disorder.
• C. Identifying individuals in the general population who will develop a specific disorder.
• D. Identifying which individuals will respond favorably to a specific treatment.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Epidemiological studies play a crucial role in identifying risk factors associated with the development of mental disorders. By pinpointing these risk factors, healthcare providers can implement preventive measures and develop more effective treatments, ultimately leading to improved care for individuals with mental disorders.

5. A client has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should the nurse implement to reduce the client's anxiety?

• A. Encourage the client to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
• B. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy sessions.
• C. Encourage the client to engage in relaxation techniques.
• D. Encourage the client to maintain a daily journal.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce anxiety for clients with PTSD. These techniques promote relaxation and help manage stress responses, contributing to a sense of calmness and improved coping mechanisms in dealing with anxiety triggers associated with PTSD. Avoiding discussing the traumatic event (Choice A) may hinder the client's progress in processing and coping with the trauma. While group therapy (Choice B) can be beneficial, relaxation techniques are more specific for reducing anxiety in this context. Maintaining a daily journal (Choice D) may be helpful for some clients but might not directly address anxiety reduction as effectively as relaxation techniques.

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