Nursing Elites

1. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I can take this medication on an as-needed basis.
• B. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effect of this medication.
• C. This medication has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
• D. I should take this medication consistently every day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Buspirone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis. It should be taken consistently every day to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Choice B is correct as it accurately reflects that buspirone may take a few weeks to reach its full effect. Choice C is also correct as buspirone indeed has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines. Choice D is correct because taking buspirone consistently every day is the appropriate way to use this medication.

2. In an outpatient mental health clinic, a nurse is preparing to conduct an initial client interview. Which of the following actions should the nurse identify as a priority?

• A. Coordinate holistic care with social services
• B. Identify the client’s perception of their mental health status
• C. Include the client’s family in the interview
• D. Educate the client about their current mental health disorder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During an initial client interview in a mental health clinic, it is essential for the nurse to prioritize identifying the client’s perception of their mental health status. Understanding how the client views their mental health can provide valuable insights into their condition, concerns, and needs, facilitating the development of a tailored and effective care plan. Coordinating holistic care with social services, including the client’s family in the interview, and educating the client about their current mental health disorder are important aspects of care but may not be the priority during the initial interview, where understanding the client's own perspective is crucial.

3. A patient with schizophrenia is being educated about the significance of medication adherence. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding?

• A. I will take my medication only when I feel symptoms returning.
• B. I understand that taking my medication regularly is important to manage my symptoms.
• C. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
• D. I should take my medication on an as-needed basis.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because acknowledging the importance of consistently taking medication is crucial for effectively managing symptoms of schizophrenia. It is essential for patients with schizophrenia to adhere to their medication regimen to stabilize their condition and prevent symptom exacerbation. Waiting for symptoms to return before taking medication, stopping medication once feeling better, or taking medications on an as-needed basis are not recommended practices for managing schizophrenia effectively.

4. When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, which nursing intervention is a priority?

• A. Providing detailed education about the condition
• B. Monitoring for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation
• C. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events
• D. Helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, the priority nursing intervention is to monitor for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Ensuring patient safety is crucial, as individuals with this disorder may be at increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behaviors. Providing education about the condition is beneficial but ensuring immediate safety takes precedence. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events can be detrimental and should be done cautiously under professional guidance. While helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity is important in the long term, it is not the immediate priority when safety is a concern.

5. Which behavior is most characteristic of agoraphobia?

• A. Avoiding crowded places and public transportation
• B. Excessively washing hands to prevent contamination
• C. Experiencing unexpected panic attacks
• D. Having a fear of gaining weight

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Agoraphobia is characterized by the avoidance of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable in the event of a panic attack. Avoiding crowded places and public transportation aligns with this fear of being in situations where escape might be challenging, making choice A the most characteristic behavior of agoraphobia. Choices B, C, and D do not directly relate to the core feature of agoraphobia, which is the avoidance of situations perceived as difficult to escape from.

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