Nursing Elites

1. When assessing a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which symptom would a nurse most likely observe?

• A. Flashbacks
• B. Excessive worry
• C. Hallucinations
• D. Compulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Excessive worry is a primary characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Patients with GAD experience persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of their lives, often anticipating disaster or catastrophic outcomes. This worry is difficult to control and can be accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, and difficulty concentrating. Flashbacks are more commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hallucinations are more typical of psychotic disorders, and compulsive behaviors are characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Therefore, when assessing a patient with GAD, a nurse would most likely observe excessive worry.

2. Which of the following symptoms should a healthcare professional expect to assess in a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder? Select one that does not apply.

• A. Loss of interest or pleasure
• B. Decreased ability to concentrate
• C. Significant weight loss or gain
• D. Increased energy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Symptoms of major depressive disorder include a loss of interest or pleasure, decreased ability to concentrate, significant weight loss or gain, and feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt. Increased energy is not typically associated with major depressive disorder; instead, fatigue is more common. Clients with major depressive disorder often experience a lack of energy, motivation, or enthusiasm, leading to feelings of lethargy and fatigue. Therefore, increased energy is an atypical symptom in major depressive disorder, making it the correct answer.

3. A nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. The client states, 'I am the president of the United States.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. You are not the president. You are a client in the hospital.
• B. Tell me more about being the president.
• C. Why do you think you are the president?
• D. Let's talk about something else.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should avoid challenging the client's delusions directly. Asking for more information can help the nurse understand the client's experience and build rapport.

4. A client is prescribed diazepam (Valium) for anxiety. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I can drink alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• C. I should take this medication only when I feel anxious.
• D. I can stop taking this medication when I feel better.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because clients should avoid alcohol while taking diazepam (Valium) due to potential interactions. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of diazepam, leading to excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression. Choice B is correct as it reflects the need to avoid alcohol. Choice C is incorrect because diazepam is usually taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping diazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should be done gradually under medical supervision.

5. During an assessment, a client is demonstrating symptoms of moderate anxiety. Which of the following symptoms would be indicative of moderate anxiety?

• A. Fidgeting
• B. Laughing inappropriately
• C. Palpitations
• D. Nail biting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Palpitations are a common physical symptom seen in clients experiencing moderate anxiety. Fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting can also indicate heightened stress levels. It's important for healthcare providers to recognize these signs and provide appropriate support. While anxiety can manifest in various ways, other indicators of moderate anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance. It's crucial for healthcare providers to assess these symptoms to provide effective care and interventions. Laughing inappropriately and nail biting are more commonly associated with nervousness or social discomfort, while fidgeting may signal mild anxiety.

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