Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary goal of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) when treating a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

• A. To help the patient confront and process traumatic memories
• B. To help the patient change negative thought patterns
• C. To help the patient develop relaxation techniques
• D. To help the patient avoid triggers

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in treating patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is to help them confront and process traumatic memories. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate the processing of distressing memories, leading to their desensitization and reprocessing, ultimately reducing PTSD symptoms.

2. April, a 10-year-old admitted to inpatient pediatric care, has been becoming increasingly agitated and losing control in the day room. Time-out has proven to be ineffective for April to engage in self-reflection. April’s mother mentions using time-out up to 20 times a day. The nurse acknowledges that:

• A. Time-out is a crucial aspect of April’s baseline discipline.
• B. Time-out is no longer an effective intervention.
• C. April finds enjoyment in time-out and misbehaves to seek solitude.
• D. Time-out will have to be replaced with seclusion and restraint.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The scenario describes how April's behavior is not improving with the frequent use of time-out, indicating that it is no longer an effective intervention. When a strategy such as time-out loses its effectiveness due to overuse, it is crucial to explore alternative therapeutic measures to address the underlying issues effectively.

3. What is the primary benefit of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with anxiety disorders?

• A. It focuses on the long-term use of medications.
• B. It helps patients understand and change their thought patterns.
• C. It primarily addresses childhood traumas.
• D. It encourages patients to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary benefit of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with anxiety disorders is that it helps individuals understand and change their thought patterns. By doing so, patients can effectively reduce their anxiety levels by altering their responses to anxious thoughts and situations, leading to improved coping mechanisms and overall well-being. Choice A is incorrect because CBT does not focus on the long-term use of medications but rather on changing cognitive patterns. Choice C is incorrect because while CBT may address past experiences, its primary focus is on current thoughts and behaviors. Choice D is incorrect as CBT aims to help patients confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations rather than avoid them.

4. A patient with a diagnosis of panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for when the patient starts this medication?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Increased appetite
• C. Gastrointestinal disturbances
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient with panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI, the nurse should monitor for gastrointestinal disturbances as a common side effect. SSRIs can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort, especially at the beginning of treatment. Increased heart rate (Choice A) is not a common side effect of SSRIs; it is more commonly associated with medications like stimulants. Increased appetite (Choice B) is not a typical side effect of SSRIs, as they are more likely to cause weight loss or appetite suppression. Dry mouth (Choice D) is a side effect seen more commonly with medications that have anticholinergic properties, not typically with SSRIs.

5. Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

• A. Fear of social situations
• B. Excessive worrying about various aspects of life
• C. Hallucinations
• D. Impulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Excessive worrying about various aspects of life is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In GAD, individuals experience excessive and uncontrollable worry about a wide range of everyday problems. This persistent worrying can lead to physical and emotional symptoms, impacting their daily functioning and quality of life. Fear of social situations, hallucinations, and impulsive behaviors are not typically associated with GAD.

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