Nursing Elites

1. What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

• A. Encouraging the patient to focus on deep breathing exercises.
• B. Encouraging the patient to avoid any physical activity.
• C. Asking the patient to describe their feelings in detail.
• D. Providing the patient with detailed information about panic attacks.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack is to encourage them to focus on deep breathing exercises. This intervention helps the patient manage the physiological symptoms of a panic attack by promoting relaxation and reducing hyperventilation, which are common during such episodes. Deep breathing exercises can help regulate breathing patterns and alleviate feelings of anxiety and panic.

2. 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.

3. Which of the following is a positive symptom of schizophrenia?

• A. Apathy
• B. Social withdrawal
• C. Delusions
• D. Flat affect

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: Delusions.' Positive symptoms of schizophrenia involve an excess or distortion of normal functions. Delusions are fixed false beliefs that are not based in reality and are considered positive symptoms because they represent an addition of abnormal behavior or thoughts.

4. A nurse is providing education to a patient newly prescribed buspirone for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I can take this medication as needed for immediate relief of anxiety.
• B. It may take several weeks before I notice the full effects of the medication.
• C. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. This medication is less likely to make me drowsy compared to other anxiety medications.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Buspirone is not for immediate relief of anxiety

5. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spends hours washing their hands. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Encouraging the patient to stop washing their hands
• B. Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times
• C. Ignoring the patient's behavior
• D. Setting strict limits on the time allowed for hand washing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD who spends excessive time washing hands, allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times is the most appropriate nursing intervention. This approach helps establish a structured routine for hand washing, which can assist in managing OCD symptoms without reinforcing the behavior. Encouraging the patient to stop washing hands may lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Ignoring the behavior can perpetuate the cycle of OCD, and setting strict limits on hand washing time may cause distress and may not effectively address the underlying issues associated with OCD.

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