Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. Which of the following statements should a healthcare provider recognize as true about defense mechanisms? Select all that apply.

• A. They are employed when there is a threat to biological or psychological integrity.
• B. They are controlled by the id and deal with primal urges.
• C. They are used in an effort to increase anxiety.
• D. They are protective devices for the superego.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Defense mechanisms are employed by the ego, not the id or superego, in response to threats to biological or psychological integrity. They aim to relieve anxiety, not increase it. By redirecting focus, they help manage mild to moderate anxiety and are often self-deceptive in nature.

3. Which statement made by the patient demonstrates an understanding of the treatment of choice for patients managing the effects of traumatic events?

• A. I attend my therapy sessions regularly.
• B. Those intrusive memories are hidden for a reason and should stay hidden.
• C. Keeping busy is the key to achieving mental health.
• D. I've agreed to move in with my parents so I'll get the support I need.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Regular attendance at therapy sessions is a crucial aspect of the recommended treatment for managing the effects of traumatic events. Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to process their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and recovery. Consistent participation in therapy sessions can help patients address and overcome the impact of trauma on their mental health.

4. Which assessment question asked by the nurse demonstrates an understanding of comorbid mental health conditions associated with major depressive disorder? Select one that doesn't apply.

• A. Do rules apply to you?
• B. What do you do to manage anxiety?
• C. Do you have a history of disordered eating?
• D. Do you think that you drink too much?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Questions about anxiety management, disordered eating, and alcohol use are relevant to identifying comorbid conditions with major depressive disorder, but the question 'Do rules apply to you?' does not directly address common comorbid mental health conditions associated with major depressive disorder.

5. In assessing a patient for signs of serotonin syndrome, which of the following symptoms would be consistent with this condition?

• A. Hypotension, bradycardia, hypothermia
• B. Hypertension, tachycardia, hyperthermia
• C. Hypotension, tachycardia, hypothermia
• D. Hypertension, bradycardia, hyperthermia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serotonin syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms: hypertension, tachycardia, and hyperthermia. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia (choice A) are not typical findings in serotonin syndrome. Hypotension, tachycardia, and hypothermia (choice C) are also not consistent with serotonin syndrome. Hypertension, bradycardia, and hyperthermia (choice D) do not align with the characteristic symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Recognizing the key symptoms of serotonin syndrome is crucial for prompt identification and intervention to prevent serious complications.

Similar Questions