Nursing Elites

1. A patient with panic disorder is being cared for by a healthcare provider. Which medication is commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment?

• A. Benzodiazepines
• B. Tricyclic antidepressants
• C. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• D. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment for panic disorder due to their efficacy and lower risk of dependence and tolerance development compared to benzodiazepines. Tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are not typically recommended as initial treatments for panic disorder because of their side effect profiles and the availability of safer and more effective options like SSRIs.

2. When assessing a patient with major depressive disorder, which of the following is a common cognitive symptom?

• A. Hallucinations
• B. Delusions
• C. Lack of appetite
• D. Negative self-talk

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Negative self-talk is a common cognitive symptom of major depressive disorder. It involves a pattern of negative thoughts and beliefs about oneself, which can significantly impact a patient's self-esteem and overall outlook on life. Hallucinations and delusions are more commonly associated with other mental health conditions like schizophrenia, while lack of appetite is typically considered a physical symptom of depression rather than a cognitive one.

3. What is the most effective initial intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

• A. Encourage the patient to discuss their feelings.
• B. Provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient.
• C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
• D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, the most effective initial intervention is to provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient. This approach can help the patient feel safe and supported, which may help reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack. Encouraging the patient to discuss their feelings may not be helpful during the acute phase of a panic attack as it can be overwhelming. Administering prescribed medication immediately is not typically the first-line intervention for panic attacks. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in the long term but may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic attack.

4. What is the priority intervention for a patient admitted for an overdose of sedatives and diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder?

• A. Conducting a suicide assessment
• B. Arranging for placement in a group home
• C. Providing a low-stimulation environment
• D. Establishing trust and rapport

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Conducting a suicide assessment is the priority intervention for a patient admitted for an overdose of sedatives and diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. In this scenario, the immediate concern is to assess the risk of harm to the patient's life. It is crucial to determine if the overdose was intentional and if the patient has suicidal ideation or intent. Arranging for placement in a group home (choice B) may be necessary at a later stage depending on the patient's needs, but it is not the priority in this urgent situation. Providing a low-stimulation environment (choice C) and establishing trust and rapport (choice D) are important aspects of care but addressing the immediate risk of suicide takes precedence in this case.

5. When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, which nursing intervention is a priority?

• A. Providing detailed education about the condition
• B. Monitoring for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation
• C. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events
• D. Helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, the priority nursing intervention is to monitor for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Ensuring patient safety is crucial, as individuals with this disorder may be at increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behaviors. Providing education about the condition is beneficial but ensuring immediate safety takes precedence. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events can be detrimental and should be done cautiously under professional guidance. While helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity is important in the long term, it is not the immediate priority when safety is a concern.

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