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 woman was abducted and raped at gunpoint by an unknown assailant. When found, she was confused and disoriented. The nurse makes the following observations about the client. She is talking rapidly in disjointed phrases, is unable to concentrate, and is indecisive when asked to make simple decisions. The client's level of anxiety can be assessed as

• A. moderate
• B. severe
• C. mild
• D. nonexistent

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client's presentation, including rapid and disjointed speech, inability to concentrate, and indecisiveness, are indicative of severe anxiety. These symptoms suggest a high level of distress and impairment in cognitive functioning, which aligns with severe anxiety rather than mild or moderate levels. The traumatic experience of being abducted and raped at gunpoint would likely contribute to such a severe level of anxiety.

3. What information should the nurse include in patient education for a patient prescribed valproic acid for bipolar disorder?

• A. Avoid consuming dairy products while taking this medication.
• B. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor medication levels.
• C. Take the medication on an empty stomach for better absorption.
• D. It is safe to stop the medication abruptly if side effects occur.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Regular blood tests are crucial when taking valproic acid to monitor the medication levels in the bloodstream. This monitoring helps ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dosage for effective treatment and to prevent adverse effects associated with either subtherapeutic or toxic levels of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because there is no specific interaction between valproic acid and dairy products. Choice C is incorrect as valproic acid can generally be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping valproic acid can lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsening of the condition.

4. Which statement is an example of reflection?

• A. I think this feeling will pass.
• B. So you are saying that life has no meaning.
• C. I'm not sure I understand what you mean.
• D. You look sad.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Reflection involves restating the patient's words or feelings to show understanding and encourage further discussion. Choice B restates the patient's statement, demonstrating active listening and empathy.

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

• A. Distrust of others
• B. Reluctance to confide in others
• C. Suspiciousness of others
• D. Jealousy of others

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with paranoid personality disorder commonly display a pervasive distrust of others. They often interpret benign actions of others as hostile or malicious, leading to suspicion and a belief that others have malevolent intentions. While choices B, C, and D may be present in individuals with different personality disorders or issues, distrust of others is a hallmark feature of paranoid personality disorder, making it the correct behavior to expect in these clients.

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