Nursing Elites

1. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prescribed prazosin. The nurse understands that this medication is used to treat which symptom of PTSD?

• A. Flashbacks
• B. Nightmares
• C. Hypervigilance
• D. Depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Prazosin is a medication often prescribed to manage nightmares in patients with PTSD. It works by blocking the action of adrenaline on specific receptors, which helps in reducing the intensity and frequency of nightmares. While flashbacks, hypervigilance, and depression are also common symptoms of PTSD, prazosin is specifically indicated for nightmares associated with the disorder. Flashbacks are typically addressed through therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypervigilance may be managed through counseling and coping strategies, and depression may necessitate antidepressant medications or therapy tailored for depression.

2. A client with bipolar disorder is in the manic phase. Which nursing intervention should the nurse implement to ensure the client's safety?

• A. Provide a structured environment with minimal stimuli.
• B. Encourage the client to participate in group activities.
• C. Monitor the client closely for signs of exhaustion.
• D. Encourage the client to rest and sleep as needed.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the manic phase of bipolar disorder, individuals may engage in impulsive behaviors that can put them at risk of harm. Providing a structured environment with minimal stimuli can help reduce the risk of injury by minimizing triggers for impulsive actions. This intervention promotes a safe and controlled setting for the client, which is crucial in managing the symptoms of mania. Encouraging the client to participate in group activities (Choice B) may increase stimuli and potentially exacerbate manic symptoms. Monitoring for signs of exhaustion (Choice C) is important but does not directly address the safety concerns related to impulsive behaviors during mania. Encouraging the client to rest and sleep as needed (Choice D) may be challenging during the manic phase when individuals typically experience decreased need for sleep.

3. Child protective services have removed 10-year-old Christopher from his parents' home due to neglect. Christopher reveals to the nurse that he considers the woman next door his 'nice' mom, that he loves school, and gets above-average grades. The strongest explanation of this response is:

• A. Temperament
• B. Genetic factors
• C. Resilience
• D. Paradoxical effects of neglect

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Christopher's positive outlook, strong school performance, and forming a bond with the neighbor indicate resilience. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and thrive despite facing adversity, such as being removed from his parents' home due to neglect. His ability to maintain a positive attitude and excel in school despite the challenging circumstances highlights his resilience.

4. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to treat which of the following conditions?

• A. Schizophrenia
• B. Bipolar disorder
• C. Posttraumatic stress disorder
• D. Generalized anxiety disorder

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach effective in treating various mental health conditions. While CBT can be beneficial for different disorders, it is particularly well-suited for anxiety-related conditions like generalized anxiety disorder. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to anxiety, making it a suitable choice for treating generalized anxiety disorder. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because CBT is not typically the first-line treatment for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or posttraumatic stress disorder, although it may be used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

5. Which of the following statements should a healthcare provider recognize as true about defense mechanisms? Select all that apply.

• A. They are employed when there is a threat to biological or psychological integrity.
• B. They are controlled by the id and deal with primal urges.
• C. They are used in an effort to increase anxiety.
• D. They are protective devices for the superego.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Defense mechanisms are employed by the ego, not the id or superego, in response to threats to biological or psychological integrity. They aim to relieve anxiety, not increase it. By redirecting focus, they help manage mild to moderate anxiety and are often self-deceptive in nature.

Similar Questions