Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare provider is educating a patient about the side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Which side effect should the provider emphasize?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Increased libido
• C. Nausea
• D. Insomnia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When educating patients about SSRIs, it is crucial to emphasize the common side effect of nausea. Nausea is a frequently reported side effect of SSRIs that can impact adherence to treatment. By highlighting this side effect, patients can be better prepared and informed about what to expect when taking these medications. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as weight gain, increased libido, and insomnia are not typically associated with SSRIs as common side effects. Nausea is a more relevant and prevalent side effect to address with patients.

2. In schizophrenia, a patient is experiencing negative symptoms. Which of the following is a negative symptom?

• A. Hallucinations
• B. Delusions
• C. Apathy
• D. Disorganized speech

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In schizophrenia, negative symptoms refer to deficits in normal emotional responses or other thought processes. Apathy is a negative symptom characterized by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there), delusions (false beliefs), and disorganized speech are positive symptoms, which involve the presence of abnormal behaviors or thoughts.

3. Which therapeutic communication technique involves restating the patient's message to ensure understanding?

• A. Clarification
• B. Reflection
• C. Summarization
• D. Paraphrasing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Paraphrasing is the correct therapeutic communication technique where the nurse restates the patient's message in their own words to confirm understanding. This technique helps in validating the patient's feelings and ensuring that both parties are in agreement, leading to effective communication and rapport building. Choice A, 'Clarification,' involves seeking further information to enhance understanding rather than restating the message. Choice B, 'Reflection,' involves echoing the patient's feelings to show empathy rather than restating the message. Choice C, 'Summarization,' involves condensing the main points of a conversation rather than restating a specific message.

4. Which of the following interventions is most effective in managing a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

• A. Encouraging the patient to engage in repetitive behaviors.
• B. Helping the patient to understand that their thoughts are irrational.
• C. Providing the patient with a structured daily routine.
• D. Allowing the patient to avoid situations that trigger their obsessions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective intervention in managing a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is helping the patient to understand that their thoughts are irrational. This cognitive-behavioral approach can assist in reducing the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors by challenging and reframing maladaptive beliefs and thought patterns associated with OCD. Encouraging the patient to engage in repetitive behaviors (choice A) reinforces the compulsive behavior rather than addressing the underlying issue. Providing a structured daily routine (choice C) may help in some cases but does not directly target the irrational thoughts and beliefs. Allowing the patient to avoid trigger situations (choice D) can provide temporary relief but does not address the core problem of irrational thoughts and behaviors.

5. A patient with social anxiety disorder is starting cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which statement by the nurse best explains the purpose of this therapy?

• A. CBT will help you understand and change your thought patterns.
• B. CBT will focus on exploring your childhood experiences.
• C. CBT will teach you relaxation techniques to use in social situations.
• D. CBT will help you avoid situations that cause anxiety.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy that aims to help patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. By understanding and altering these patterns, individuals can learn to manage and alleviate their symptoms effectively. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the purpose of CBT for social anxiety disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. B is incorrect because while childhood experiences may be explored, the primary focus of CBT is on thought patterns and behaviors in the present. C is incorrect because although relaxation techniques may be a component of CBT, the primary goal is not just to teach relaxation but to address underlying cognitive and behavioral patterns. D is incorrect because the goal of CBT is not avoidance but rather to confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations.

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