Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. A patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed a beta-blocker. Which symptom is this medication most likely intended to address?

• A. Panic attacks
• B. Tremors and palpitations
• C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• D. Depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Beta-blockers are commonly used to alleviate physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders, such as tremors and palpitations. These medications help manage the autonomic symptoms of anxiety, like increased heart rate and trembling, which are often prominent in social anxiety disorder. Beta-blockers do not primarily target cognitive symptoms like recurrent, intrusive thoughts (choice C), panic attacks (choice A), or depression (choice D) in social anxiety disorder.

3. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) performs hand washing repeatedly. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Restricting the patient from washing hands
• B. Setting strict limits on the patient's hand washing
• C. Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times
• D. Ignoring the patient's behavior

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with OCD who repetitively performs hand washing. This intervention provides structure by allowing the patient to engage in the behavior at designated times, helping to reduce the compulsion gradually. Restricting or setting strict limits may increase anxiety and worsen the condition, while ignoring the behavior does not address the underlying issue of OCD.

4. Which intervention is most appropriate to promote the self-esteem of a patient with severe depression?

• A. Encouraging the patient to spend time alone for self-reflection.
• B. Involving the patient in simple, achievable activities to ensure success.
• C. Allowing the patient to rest and avoid responsibilities.
• D. Providing frequent reassurances and compliments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Involving the patient in simple, achievable activities is a constructive approach to promote self-esteem by fostering a sense of accomplishment and success. This method encourages positive reinforcement and helps the patient regain confidence and self-worth, which are essential in managing depression. Choice A could potentially lead to rumination and worsen depressive symptoms. Choice C might reinforce avoidance behaviors and hinder progress. Choice D, while supportive, may not address the core need for building self-esteem through personal achievements.

5. During a panic attack, what is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
• B. Provide a quiet, non-stimulating environment.
• C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
• D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, a quiet, non-stimulating environment is the most appropriate nursing intervention. This helps reduce stimuli that may exacerbate the panic attack and allows the individual to focus on calming down. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings may not be effective during an acute panic attack as the focus should be on reducing stimuli. Administering medication should follow healthcare provider's orders and may not be the initial intervention. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in managing anxiety but may not be the priority during the acute phase of a panic attack where reducing stimuli is crucial.

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