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. Which statement demonstrates a well-structured attempt at limit setting?

• A. Hitting me when you are angry is unacceptable.
• B. I expect you to behave yourself during dinner.
• C. Come here, right now!
• D. Good boys don't bite.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A, 'Hitting me when you are angry is unacceptable,' demonstrates a well-structured attempt at limit setting because it clearly defines the unacceptable behavior without ambiguity. This statement sets a clear boundary and clearly communicates the consequence for the behavior. In contrast, choices B, C, and D are less effective in setting limits as they are either vague expectations or commands without specific consequences for crossing the limit.

3. After a client with major depressive disorder undergoes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which of the following is a priority assessment for the nurse?

• A. Monitoring for signs of infection
• B. Monitoring for signs of respiratory distress
• C. Monitoring for signs of hypotension
• D. Monitoring for signs of bleeding

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority assessment for the nurse after a client undergoes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is monitoring for signs of respiratory distress. This is crucial due to the potential risk of complications from anesthesia, such as airway compromise or respiratory depression. Prompt identification and intervention in case of respiratory distress are essential to ensure the client's safety and well-being. Monitoring for signs of infection (Choice A) is important but not the priority immediately post-ECT. Hypotension (Choice C) and bleeding (Choice D) are also potential concerns but assessing respiratory distress takes precedence due to the immediate risk it poses to the client's well-being.

4. A client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is being discharged. Which of the following instructions should the nurse not include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Practice relaxation techniques daily
• B. Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• C. Engage in regular physical activity
• D. Use benzodiazepines as the first-line treatment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Discharge instructions for a client with GAD should include practicing relaxation techniques daily, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, engaging in regular physical activity, and seeking support from friends and family. Benzodiazepines are not recommended as the first-line treatment due to their potential for dependence and should not be included in the discharge teaching.

5. A patient with major depressive disorder is being treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The nurse should monitor the patient for which common side effect?

• A. Memory loss
• B. Hypertension
• C. Weight gain
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Memory loss, especially short-term memory loss, is a common side effect associated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). During ECT treatment, the electrical currents passed through the brain can disrupt short-term memory formation. This side effect is usually temporary, but patients should be closely monitored for any changes in memory function during and after the treatment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not commonly associated with ECT. Hypertension, weight gain, and hyperglycemia are not typically observed as side effects of ECT.

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