Nursing Elites

1. A client prescribed sertraline for depression is receiving discharge instructions. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?

• A. I should take this medication at bedtime to avoid nausea.
• B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• C. I should take this medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
• D. It may take several weeks for this medication to be effective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because sertraline, used for depression, typically takes several weeks to become effective. It is important for clients to understand this delayed onset of action to manage their expectations and continue taking the medication as prescribed despite not seeing immediate results.

2. A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching? Select one that does not apply.

• A. I should avoid caffeine because it can increase my anxiety.
• B. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
• C. Practicing deep breathing exercises can help reduce my anxiety.
• D. I should gradually face situations that cause me anxiety.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Statements indicating a need for further teaching include stopping medication once feeling better and believing that medication will always be needed. Medication should be continued as prescribed, and the need for it should be regularly re-evaluated by a healthcare provider.

3. A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed olanzapine. The nurse should monitor the patient for which common side effect?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Hypotension
• C. Hair loss
• D. Hyperthyroidism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Weight gain is a common side effect of olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic. Olanzapine is known to cause metabolic changes that can lead to weight gain. Monitoring weight regularly is essential to detect and manage this side effect to prevent associated health risks such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Hypotension (choice B) is not a common side effect of olanzapine. Olanzapine is more likely to cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions. Hair loss (choice C) and hyperthyroidism (choice D) are not typically associated with olanzapine use.

4. A healthcare provider is assessing a client with suspected post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which of the following findings should the provider expect? Select one that does not apply.

• A. Flashbacks
• B. Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• C. Increased arousal and hypervigilance
• D. Manic episodes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by various symptoms, including flashbacks, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, increased arousal, and hypervigilance. Additionally, individuals with PTSD often experience negative changes in thoughts and mood. Manic episodes, which are periods of abnormally elevated mood and energy, are not typically associated with PTSD. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Manic episodes.' Choices A, B, and C are all common findings in individuals with PTSD.

5. Which medication is commonly prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder?

• A. Sertraline
• B. Valproic acid
• C. Clozapine
• D. Haloperidol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Valproic acid is commonly prescribed as a mood stabilizer for the treatment of bipolar disorder. It helps in controlling mood swings, preventing manic episodes, and reducing the risk of depressive episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder. Sertraline is an antidepressant typically used for major depressive disorder and other anxiety disorders, not for bipolar disorder. Clozapine and Haloperidol are antipsychotic medications primarily used in schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, not as first-line treatments for bipolar disorder.

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