a nurse is assessing a patient with major depressive disorder which symptom would most likely be observed
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. When assessing a patient with major depressive disorder, which symptom would most likely be observed?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, is a hallmark symptom of major depressive disorder. Patients with major depressive disorder often experience a pervasive feeling of emptiness and loss of interest in activities they used to find pleasurable. Euphoria, increased energy, and racing thoughts are more commonly associated with conditions like bipolar disorder rather than major depressive disorder.

2. When an individual's stress response is sustained over a long period of time, which physiological effect of the endocrine system should one anticipate?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When stress is prolonged, the body reaches the stage of exhaustion in the general adaptation syndrome, where compensatory mechanisms fail, and diseases of adaptation may occur. One physiological effect includes a decreased immune response, leading to decreased resistance to disease. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Increased libido (choice B) is not a typical physiological effect related to prolonged stress. Decreased blood pressure (choice C) is not commonly associated with sustained stress. Increased inflammatory response (choice D) may occur in the short term due to stress, but over a prolonged period, the immune system's function weakens, leading to decreased resistance to disease.

3. A female patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been prescribed a first-generation antipsychotic medication. What information should the nurse provide to the patient regarding her signs and symptoms?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: First-generation antipsychotic medications are effective in reducing hallucinations in patients with schizophrenia. These medications primarily target positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Therefore, the nurse should inform the patient that she should experience a reduction in hallucinations with the prescribed first-generation antipsychotic medication.

4. A client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has been admitted to the psychiatric unit after a suicide attempt. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The initial priority for the nurse is to ensure the safety of the client. Placing the client on one-to-one observation allows for constant monitoring and intervention if there are any signs of self-harm or a worsening condition. This immediate intervention is crucial to prevent further harm. Options A, C, and D involve therapeutic communication and interventions, which are important but should come after ensuring the client's safety.

5. How does emotional trauma typically affect individuals physically?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Emotional trauma can often manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and other somatic complaints. These physical manifestations can be long-lasting and impact the individual's overall well-being.

Similar Questions

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According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which situation on an inpatient psychiatric unit would require priority intervention by a nurse?
A client with borderline personality disorder is receiving care. Which of the following interventions should be included in the plan of care?
A client has been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and expresses worrying about their job, family, and health, feeling a loss of control. What should the nurse do first?
Which statement demonstrates a well-structured attempt at limit setting?

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