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 is experiencing a manic episode. Which intervention is most effective?

• A. Encouraging the patient to participate in group activities
• B. Providing a low-stimulation environment
• C. Allowing the patient to move freely around the unit
• D. Engaging the patient in competitive games

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a manic episode, individuals may be overwhelmed by stimuli. Providing a low-stimulation environment can help reduce excessive sensory input and minimize exacerbation of manic behaviors. This intervention aims to create a calm and structured setting that supports the individual in managing their symptoms effectively.

3. What is the primary benefit of using exposure therapy for patients with phobias?

• A. To eliminate the phobia completely
• B. To gradually reduce the patient’s fear and anxiety
• C. To teach the patient relaxation techniques
• D. To provide immediate relief from anxiety

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary benefit of using exposure therapy for patients with phobias is to gradually reduce the patient's fear and anxiety. Exposure therapy involves exposing the individual to the feared object or situation in a controlled manner to help them confront their fears and learn that the perceived threat is not as harmful as initially believed. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to a decrease in anxiety and fear responses, helping the individual manage and overcome their phobia. Choice A is incorrect because exposure therapy aims to reduce fear and anxiety, not necessarily eliminate the phobia completely. Choice C is incorrect as although relaxation techniques might be part of the therapy, the primary goal is fear reduction. Choice D is incorrect as exposure therapy typically involves gradual exposure rather than providing immediate relief.

4. When orienting a new client to a mental health unit, which of the following statements should the nurse make about the unit’s community meetings?

• A. “Clients gather to discuss their treatment plans together.”
• B. “Staff establish a specific agenda for community meetings.”
• C. “Clients meet with staff to discuss common problems.”
• D. “Community meetings provide an opportunity to explore personal mental health issues.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During community meetings in a mental health unit, clients come together with staff to discuss common problems they may be facing. These meetings are designed to foster a sense of community and provide support and guidance to clients. Choice A is incorrect because community meetings focus on discussions beyond individual treatment plans. Choice B is incorrect as while staff may facilitate the meetings, the focus is on clients' concerns, not a predetermined agenda. Choice D is incorrect as the primary purpose of community meetings is to address shared challenges, not individual mental health issues.

5. When the caregiver of a child asks the nurse for reassurance about their child’s condition, which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. “I think your child is getting better. What have you noticed?”
• B. “I’m sure everything will be okay. It just takes time to heal.”
• C. “I’m not sure what’s wrong. Have you asked the doctor about your concerns?”
• D. “I understand you’re concerned. Let’s discuss what concerns you specifically.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When providing reassurance to a caregiver about their child’s condition, it's essential to acknowledge their concern and address it specifically. Response D demonstrates empathy and a willingness to discuss the caregiver's specific concerns, which can help in providing accurate information and support to them. Choices A and B provide general reassurance without addressing the caregiver's specific concerns, which may not alleviate their worries effectively. Choice C deflects the question back to the caregiver and suggests consulting the doctor without directly engaging with the caregiver's worries, which may not offer the needed support and reassurance.

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