a nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice B

1. A client has been diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?

A. Attention-seeking behavior
B. Dramatic expressions of emotion
C. Seductive behavior
D. Dependency on others

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with histrionic personality disorder often display attention-seeking behaviors as a way to draw focus and validation from others. This behavior may manifest as exaggerated emotions and dramatic expressions to maintain the spotlight. While seductive behavior and dependency on others are potential characteristics of histrionic personality disorder, attention-seeking behavior is the hallmark trait. Therefore, the correct answer is attention-seeking behavior (Choice A). Dramatic expressions of emotion (Choice B) can be a feature of histrionic personality disorder, but it is not as characteristic as attention-seeking behavior. Seductive behavior (Choice C) may also be present in individuals with histrionic personality disorder, but it is not the primary behavior to expect. Dependency on others (Choice D) is not a core feature of histrionic personality disorder, although individuals with this disorder may seek attention and validation from others.

2. Which characteristic in an adolescent female is sometimes associated with the prodromal phase of schizophrenia?

A. Constantly afraid another student will steal her belongings.
B. An unusual interest in numbers and specific topics.
C. Demonstrates no interest in athletics or organized sports.
D. Appears more comfortable among males.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the prodromal phase of schizophrenia, individuals may exhibit subtle changes in behavior or interests. An unusual interest in numbers and specific topics may be a sign of cognitive disturbances that can precede the onset of schizophrenia. While the other choices may also be observed in adolescents, an unusual interest in numbers and specific topics is more specifically linked to potential prodromal symptoms of schizophrenia.

3. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing delusions. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?

A. Agree with the client's delusions to avoid confrontation.
B. Challenge the client's delusions directly.
C. Encourage the client to discuss their delusions in detail.
D. Present reality and offer reassurance without reinforcing the delusions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When caring for a client with schizophrenia experiencing delusions, the nurse should present reality and offer reassurance without reinforcing the client's delusions. This approach helps the client maintain a connection to reality while feeling supported. Agreeing with the delusions may perpetuate false beliefs, while directly challenging them can lead to increased distress for the client. Encouraging the client to discuss their delusions in detail may further exacerbate their symptoms or reinforce their false beliefs. Therefore, the most therapeutic intervention is to gently present reality and provide reassurance to the client.

4. Which is an example of the ego defense mechanism of regression?

A. A mother blames the teacher for her child's failure in school.
B. A teenager becomes hysterical after seeing a friend killed in a car accident.
C. A woman wants to marry a man exactly like her beloved father.
D. An adult throws a temper tantrum when he does not get his own way.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development for comfort. In this case, an adult throwing a temper tantrum is regressing to a childlike behavior when faced with not getting their way, which is a form of seeking comfort associated with earlier development. Choices A, B, and C do not exemplify regression. Blaming the teacher, becoming hysterical after a traumatic event, or seeking a partner similar to a beloved father are not instances of reverting to earlier developmental stages to cope with stress or conflict.

5. Which chronic medical condition commonly triggers major depressive disorder?

A. Pain
B. Hypertension
C. Hypothyroidism
D. Crohn's disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Chronic pain is a common trigger for major depressive disorder. The persistent and distressing nature of chronic pain can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and contribute to the development of major depressive disorder in individuals experiencing it.