Nursing Elites

1. A patient diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder has been undergoing therapy for several months. Which outcome indicates that the patient is progressing in therapy?

• A. The patient has developed a strong therapeutic relationship with the therapist.
• B. The patient’s different personalities are beginning to merge.
• C. The patient is able to recall traumatic events without dissociating.
• D. The patient reports fewer gaps in memory.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In dissociative identity disorder, the merging of different personalities is a crucial indicator of progress in therapy. As the different identities merge, it signifies that the patient is integrating fragmented aspects of their self, leading to a more cohesive sense of identity and a reduction in dissociative symptoms. This process is a significant therapeutic milestone in the treatment of dissociative identity disorder as it promotes internal cohesion and decreases internal conflict. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while developing a strong therapeutic relationship, recalling traumatic events without dissociating, and reporting fewer gaps in memory are important aspects of therapy, the merging of different personalities is specifically indicative of substantial progress in treating dissociative identity disorder.

2. A client has a new prescription for disulfiram for the treatment of alcohol use disorder. The nurse informs the client that this medication can cause nausea and vomiting when alcohol is consumed. Which of the following types of treatment is this method an example of?

• A. Aversion therapy
• B. Flooding
• C. Biofeedback
• D. Dialectical behavior therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aversion therapy is a form of behavioral therapy that aims to create a negative response to a stimulus, in this case, alcohol consumption. Disulfiram is used in aversion therapy to induce unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, such as nausea and vomiting, to deter the individual from drinking. Therefore, the use of disulfiram in this context exemplifies aversion therapy. Flooding involves exposing an individual to a feared object or situation to overcome anxiety; biofeedback teaches self-regulation techniques, and dialectical behavior therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy focusing on acceptance and change strategies, which are not directly related to the use of disulfiram for alcohol use disorder.

3. A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

• A. Increased energy
• B. Constipation
• C. Weight gain
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Weight gain is a common side effect associated with lithium therapy. It is essential for the nurse to monitor the patient for changes in weight as it can impact the individual's overall health and well-being. Patients on lithium should be advised on dietary and lifestyle modifications to manage potential weight gain and maintain a healthy weight.

4. A client who is at risk for suicide following their partner’s death is speaking with a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. “I feel very sorry for the loneliness you must be experiencing.”
• B. “Suicide is not the appropriate way to cope with loss.”
• C. “Losing someone close to you must be very upsetting.”
• D. “I know how difficult it is to lose a loved one.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client is at risk for suicide, it is crucial for the nurse to acknowledge the emotional impact of losing a loved one without downplaying or judging their feelings. Statement C demonstrates empathy and understanding without making assumptions or providing unsolicited advice, making it the most appropriate response in this situation. Choice A focuses more on the nurse's feelings rather than the client's, which might not effectively address the client's emotional state. Choice B is judgmental and dismissive, which could further isolate the client. Choice D, although empathetic, shifts the focus to the nurse's experience rather than validating the client's feelings.

5. Which of the following is a common symptom of borderline personality disorder?

• A. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
• B. Fear of social situations
• C. Grandiose sense of self-importance
• D. Impulsive and self-destructive behaviors

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Individuals with borderline personality disorder often exhibit impulsive and self-destructive behaviors. These behaviors can include reckless driving, substance abuse, self-harm, and suicidal gestures. These actions are often attempts to cope with intense emotional pain or to avoid feelings of emptiness and abandonment. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize and address these symptoms when diagnosing and treating borderline personality disorder.

Similar Questions