Nursing Elites

1. A patient with major depressive disorder is prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). The nurse should educate the patient about which potential side effect?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Sexual dysfunction
• D. Weight gain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly associated with sexual dysfunction as a side effect. This adverse effect includes decreased libido, delayed orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. Educating patients about this potential side effect is crucial to manage expectations and consider appropriate interventions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as SSRIs are not typically associated with hypertension, diarrhea, or weight gain as common side effects.

2. A client is experiencing progressive changes in memory that have interfered with personal, social, and occupational functioning. The client exhibits poor judgment and has a short attention span. The nurse recognizes these as classic signs of which condition?

• A. Delirium
• B. Mania
• C. Parkinsonism
• D. Alzheimer’s

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The client's presentation of progressive memory changes, poor judgment, and attention deficits align with classic signs of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline that significantly impacts daily functioning. While delirium and mania may present with cognitive changes, Alzheimer's is specifically associated with progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment over time.

3. A healthcare provider is caring for a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which intervention is most appropriate to address the client's delusions?

• A. Challenge the client's delusions directly.
• B. Provide evidence to disprove the delusions.
• C. Acknowledge the client's feelings without reinforcing the delusions.
• D. Ignore the client's delusions.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When caring for a client with schizophrenia experiencing delusions, the most appropriate intervention is to acknowledge the client's feelings without reinforcing the delusions. This approach helps maintain trust and communication, fostering a therapeutic relationship. Challenging the delusions directly can lead to increased distress and resistance from the client. Providing evidence to disprove the delusions may not be effective due to the deeply ingrained nature of the client's beliefs. Ignoring the delusions may make the client feel dismissed or unheard, which can hinder the therapeutic process.

4. A client has been prescribed lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
• B. Take the medication with food to prevent stomach upset.
• C. You may experience mild nausea when initiating the medication.
• D. Do not double the next dose if you miss one.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide is to advise the client to avoid driving until they know how the medication affects them. Lithium can lead to side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which could impair one's ability to drive safely. Choice B is incorrect because lithium is usually taken on an empty stomach. Choice C may be true but is not as critical as the potential side effects affecting driving. Choice D is important but not as immediate as ensuring the client's safety while driving.

5. In a patient with bipolar disorder, which symptom would indicate a manic episode?

• A. Excessive sleeping
• B. Low self-esteem
• C. Decreased need for sleep
• D. Anhedonia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decreased need for sleep. A decreased need for sleep is a hallmark symptom of a manic episode in bipolar disorder. During manic episodes, individuals may experience significantly reduced sleep without feeling tired, which can lead to increased energy levels, impulsivity, and other manic symptoms. Excessive sleeping (choice A) is more indicative of depression rather than mania. Low self-esteem (choice B) and anhedonia (choice D) are also more commonly associated with depressive episodes rather than manic episodes in bipolar disorder.

Similar Questions