Nursing Elites

1. A client is experiencing panic attacks. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client manage anxiety?

• A. Encourage the client to avoid situations that trigger anxiety.
• B. Encourage the client to practice deep breathing exercises.
• C. Encourage the client to take anti-anxiety medication as prescribed.
• D. Encourage the client to engage in regular physical activity.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During panic attacks, deep breathing exercises can help the client manage anxiety effectively by promoting relaxation and reducing the intensity of symptoms. Encouraging the client to practice deep breathing can provide a quick and accessible strategy to cope with the immediate distress of a panic attack. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding triggering situations may reinforce avoidance behavior, anti-anxiety medication is not the first-line intervention during a panic attack, and engaging in physical activity may not be feasible or effective during an acute episode of panic.

2. A client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) states, 'I just can't stop worrying about everything.' Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for this client?

• A. Ineffective coping
• B. Disturbed thought processes
• C. Chronic low self-esteem
• D. Social isolation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) who expresses an inability to stop worrying about everything is 'Ineffective coping.' This diagnosis indicates the client's struggle to manage anxiety and worry effectively, which aligns with the client's statement. 'Disturbed thought processes' (Choice B) would involve disorganized or irrational thinking patterns, which are not directly related to the client's statement about excessive worry. 'Chronic low self-esteem' (Choice C) refers to a long-standing negative self-evaluation and is not the most fitting diagnosis for the client's current concern. 'Social isolation' (Choice D) pertains to a lack of social interactions and support, which is not the primary issue highlighted by the client's statement.

3. When a husband accuses his wife of infidelity, which situation would indicate to the nurse the husband's use of the ego defense mechanism of projection?

• A. The husband cries and stamps his feet, demanding that his wife be true to her marriage vows.
• B. The husband ignores the wife's continued absence from the home.
• C. The husband has already admitted to having an affair with a coworker.
• D. The husband takes out his marital frustrations through employee abuse.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Projection is a defense mechanism where one attributes their unacceptable feelings or impulses to another person. In this scenario, the husband, by admitting to having an affair with a coworker, is projecting his infidelity onto his wife, indicating the use of the projection defense mechanism. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a different behavior, not projection. Choice B does not demonstrate projection but rather avoidance or denial. Choice D shows displacement of aggression, not projection.

4. A bright student confides in the school nurse about conflicts related to attending college or working to add needed financial support to the family. Which coping strategy is most appropriate for the nurse to recommend to the student at this time?

• A. Meditation
• B. Problem-solving training
• C. Relaxation
• D. Journaling

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the student is dealing with conflicting priorities of attending college or working to support the family financially. Problem-solving training is the most appropriate coping strategy to recommend. It can help the student objectively assess the situation, identify potential solutions, and make informed decisions. Problem-solving training provides structure and guidance, empowering the student to navigate the conflicting priorities effectively and choose the best course of action. Meditation, relaxation, and journaling may be beneficial for stress relief but may not directly address the decision-making process required in this situation.

5. A client with schizophrenia is prescribed an antipsychotic medication. Which of the following side effects shouldn't the nurse monitor for?

• A. Tardive dyskinesia
• B. Decreased need for sleep
• C. Orthostatic hypotension
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Decreased need for sleep.' While antipsychotic medications can cause side effects like tardive dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension, and hyperglycemia, a decreased need for sleep is not a common side effect. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client for the known side effects of antipsychotic medications to ensure early detection and appropriate management.

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