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. Devastated by a divorce from an abusive husband, a wife completes grief counseling. Which statement by the wife should indicate to a nurse that the client is in the acceptance stage of grief?

• A. If only we could have tried again, things might have worked out.
• B. I am so mad that the children and I had to put up with him as long as we did.
• C. Yes, it was a difficult relationship, but I think I have learned from the experience.
• D. I still don't have any appetite and continue to lose weight.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should recognize that the client is in the acceptance stage of grief based on the statement 'Yes, it was a difficult relationship, but I think I have learned from the experience.' In this statement, the client is acknowledging the difficulty of the relationship but also expressing personal growth and learning from the experience, indicating acceptance. Choices A, B, and D do not reflect the acceptance stage of grief. Choice A shows a sense of regret and a wish for things to have turned out differently. Choice B demonstrates lingering anger towards the ex-husband. Choice D suggests ongoing physical manifestations of grief like loss of appetite and weight loss, which are more indicative of earlier stages of grief.

3. A client diagnosed with panic disorder is receiving discharge teaching from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the teaching?

• A. I should avoid caffeine and other stimulants.
• B. I should take my medication only when I feel anxious.
• C. I should use relaxation techniques to manage anxiety.
• D. I should avoid exercising to prevent triggering anxiety.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Avoiding caffeine and other stimulants is crucial for clients with panic disorder as these substances can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Caffeine can trigger or worsen anxiety, leading to increased heart rate and restlessness. By eliminating stimulants, the client can better manage their anxiety levels and reduce the risk of panic attacks. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because taking medication only when feeling anxious may lead to inconsistent treatment, using relaxation techniques alone may not be sufficient for managing panic disorder, and avoiding exercise can actually be counterproductive as regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and stress levels.

4. Which of the following is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?

• A. Insomnia
• B. Weight gain
• C. Drowsiness
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Drowsiness is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety. Benzodiazepines work by depressing the central nervous system, which can lead to drowsiness as a side effect. This sedative effect is often desired in the treatment of anxiety disorders, but individuals should be cautious when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving, while taking these medications. Insomnia, weight gain, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more common side effects.

5. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. Preference for solitary activities
• B. Detachment from social relationships
• C. Indifference to praise or criticism
• D. Anxiety in social situations

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct behavior that the healthcare professional should expect in an individual with schizoid personality disorder is indifference to praise or criticism. While it is true that individuals with this disorder often exhibit a preference for solitary activities and detachment from social relationships, the key defining characteristic is their emotional detachment and lack of response to external feedback, which includes being indifferent to praise or criticism. Anxiety in social situations is not a typical feature of schizoid personality disorder.

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