Nursing Elites

1. When a patient is diagnosed with major depressive disorder, which nursing diagnosis should be the priority?

• A. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
• B. Risk for suicide
• C. Disturbed sleep pattern
• D. Ineffective coping

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is 'Risk for suicide.' This is the priority as it addresses the immediate risk of self-harm in individuals suffering from major depressive disorder. Monitoring and intervening to prevent self-harm take precedence over other nursing diagnoses in this scenario.

2. When developing a care plan for a patient with borderline personality disorder, which intervention should be included to address self-harm behaviors?

• A. Encouraging the patient to keep a journal of their thoughts and feelings.
• B. Setting clear and consistent boundaries with the patient.
• C. Providing the patient with coping skills to manage their emotions.
• D. Developing a safety plan with the patient.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Developing a safety plan with the patient is crucial when addressing self-harm behaviors in individuals with borderline personality disorder. This intervention helps outline steps to take during a crisis, identifies triggers, and provides strategies to prevent self-harm incidents. It involves collaboratively creating a plan between the patient and the healthcare team to ensure a structured and supportive approach to managing potentially dangerous situations.

3. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the best initial intervention?

• A. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers
• B. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings
• C. Providing the patient with relaxation techniques
• D. Advising the patient to avoid social situations

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best initial intervention for a patient with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is to provide relaxation techniques. This approach helps the patient manage flashbacks by focusing on the present moment, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety associated with the traumatic memories. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers or social situations may not address the immediate distress caused by flashbacks, while talking about feelings may not be as effective as providing immediate tools to manage the distressing symptoms.

4. What principle should guide a nurse's fear about 'saying the wrong thing' to a patient in nurse-patient communication?

• A. Patients tend to appreciate a well-meaning person who conveys genuine acceptance, respect, and concern for their situation.
• B. The patient is more interested in talking to you than listening to what you have to say and is not likely to be offended.
• C. Considering the patient's history, there is little chance that the comment will do any actual harm.
• D. Most people with a mental illness have, by necessity, developed a high tolerance for forgiveness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Effective nurse-patient communication is guided by the principle that patients value sincere and respectful interactions. A nurse's well-meaning approach that conveys acceptance, respect, and concern helps establish trust and rapport with patients, even if the nurse is apprehensive about making mistakes. It is essential for the nurse to focus on genuine intent and respect for the patient's situation rather than being consumed by the fear of saying something wrong.

5. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed sertraline. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect associated with sertraline, a medication commonly used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is essential for the nurse to monitor for nausea as it can impact the patient's adherence to the medication regimen. Educating the patient about this potential side effect and advising ways to manage it can enhance treatment compliance and overall therapeutic outcomes.

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