Nursing Elites

1. A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the medication?

• A. I should take this medication at the same time every day.
• B. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
• C. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. I should take this medication on an as-needed basis.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because taking the medication at the same time every day helps maintain consistent blood levels and effectiveness. Consistency in dosing is crucial for the medication to work optimally in managing symptoms of schizophrenia. Option B is incorrect because stopping the medication abruptly can lead to a worsening of symptoms. Option C is important as alcohol can interact with the medication and cause adverse effects. Option D is incorrect because risperidone is typically taken regularly, not on an as-needed basis, to manage symptoms effectively.

2. Which therapeutic communication technique is being used when the nurse says, 'Tell me more about what you are feeling right now'?

• A. Restating
• B. Clarification
• C. Reflection
• D. Exploration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Exploration. In this scenario, the nurse is using the exploration technique to encourage the patient to elaborate further on their feelings. Exploration involves prompting the patient to delve deeper into their thoughts and emotions, fostering a more comprehensive discussion and understanding of their experiences.

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 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the best initial intervention?

• A. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers
• B. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings
• C. Providing the patient with relaxation techniques
• D. Advising the patient to avoid social situations

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best initial intervention for a patient with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is to provide relaxation techniques. This approach helps the patient manage flashbacks by focusing on the present moment, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety associated with the traumatic memories. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers or social situations may not address the immediate distress caused by flashbacks, while talking about feelings may not be as effective as providing immediate tools to manage the distressing symptoms.

5. In an acute mental health facility, a nurse is communicating with a client. The client states, “I can’t sleep. I stay up all night.” The nurse responds, “You are having difficulty sleeping?” Which of the following therapeutic communication techniques is the nurse demonstrating?

• A. Offering general leads
• B. Summarizing
• C. Focusing
• D. Restating

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse is using the restating technique, where the nurse paraphrases or repeats the main idea expressed by the client to show understanding and encourage further communication. Restating helps clarify the client's message and fosters a therapeutic relationship. Choice A, offering general leads, involves encouraging the client to continue talking with nonverbal or minimal verbal prompts. Summarizing (Choice B) involves condensing and organizing the client's message. Focusing (Choice C) involves centering the conversation on a key element or topic.

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