Nursing Elites

1. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the most appropriate initial nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk briefly about the traumatic event.
• B. Reassure the patient that they are safe and the event is not happening now.
• C. Administer a sedative medication as prescribed.
• D. Suggest the patient write about their feelings in a journal.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a flashback, the patient may feel as though the traumatic event is reoccurring. Reassuring the patient that they are safe and the event is not happening presently can help ground them in reality and reduce anxiety. This approach can provide a sense of safety and security, which is crucial in managing flashbacks associated with PTSD. Encouraging the patient to talk briefly about the traumatic event may worsen the distress during a flashback by intensifying the re-experiencing of the trauma. Administering sedative medication should not be the initial intervention, as non-pharmacological approaches are preferred in managing flashbacks. Suggesting the patient write about their feelings in a journal may be beneficial as part of ongoing therapy, but it is not the most appropriate initial intervention during a flashback.

2. After a severe automobile accident, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were brought to the hospital. Mrs. Johnson is unable to remember anything about the accident or the two days preceding it. The nurse recognizes this as:

• A. Generalized amnesia
• B. Localized amnesia
• C. Selective amnesia
• D. Continuous amnesia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Localized amnesia refers to an inability to recall specific events, often traumatic, within a particular time frame. In this case, Mrs. Johnson's memory loss about the accident and the preceding two days aligns with the characteristics of localized amnesia. Generalized amnesia involves a more extensive memory loss, often encompassing a person's entire life, which is not the case here. Selective amnesia involves forgetting specific details but not a whole chunk of time like in this scenario. Continuous amnesia is not a recognized term in psychology.

3. Which of the following medications is commonly used to treat panic disorder?

• A. Lithium
• B. Diazepam
• C. Haloperidol
• D. Clozapine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is commonly used to treat panic disorder due to its anxiolytic effects. It helps reduce feelings of anxiety and panic by acting on the central nervous system. Lithium is primarily used for bipolar disorder, while Haloperidol and Clozapine are antipsychotic medications used for conditions like schizophrenia. Therefore, the correct choice for treating panic disorder among the options provided is Diazepam.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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