Nursing Elites

1. A patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed propranolol. The nurse understands that this medication is used primarily to:

• A. Reduce anxiety symptoms
• B. Improve mood
• C. Increase energy levels
• D. Enhance social interactions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Reduce anxiety symptoms. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, is primarily used to reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling, in patients with social anxiety disorder. It does not directly affect mood, energy levels, or social interactions. Choice B is incorrect because propranolol does not target mood improvement. Choice C is incorrect because propranolol does not aim to increase energy levels. Choice D is incorrect because propranolol does not enhance social interactions; its primary role is in reducing physical symptoms of anxiety.

2. A patient with major depressive disorder has been prescribed an MAOI. The patient should be educated to avoid which type of food to prevent hypertensive crises?

• A. High-protein foods
• B. High-fiber foods
• C. Tyramine-rich foods
• D. Low-fat foods

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tyramine-rich foods. Patients prescribed MAOIs should avoid tyramine-rich foods to prevent hypertensive crises. Tyramine-rich foods can interact with MAOIs, leading to a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure. Examples of tyramine-rich foods include aged cheeses, cured meats, pickled or fermented foods, and certain beverages like beer and wine. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not associated with causing hypertensive crises when taken with MAOIs.

3. Which of the following symptoms shouldn't a healthcare professional expect to assess in a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

• A. Excessive worry
• B. Muscle tension
• C. Increased energy
• D. Restlessness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), common symptoms include excessive worry, muscle tension, restlessness, and irritability. Increased energy is not typically associated with GAD; instead, clients often experience fatigue due to the persistent anxiety and worry that characterize the disorder.

4. A patient with major depressive disorder is started on a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Which common side effect should the nurse educate the patient about?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Dry mouth
• D. Weight loss

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dry mouth. Dry mouth is a common side effect associated with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). TCAs block acetylcholine receptors, leading to anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. It is important for the nurse to educate the patient about this side effect to promote awareness and provide appropriate management strategies, such as maintaining good oral hygiene and staying hydrated. Choice A, hypertension, is not a common side effect of TCAs. Choice B, diarrhea, is not a typical side effect of TCAs; in fact, TCAs are more likely to cause constipation. Choice D, weight loss, is less common with TCAs as they are more likely to cause weight gain.

5. A client has been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and expresses worrying about their job, family, and health, feeling a loss of control. What should the nurse do first?

• A. Administer a prescribed antianxiety medication.
• B. Encourage the client to attend a support group.
• C. Identify triggers of the client's anxiety.
• D. Teach the client deep breathing techniques.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The initial step for the nurse is to teach the client deep breathing techniques to aid in managing anxiety symptoms. Deep breathing exercises can help the client relax, reduce anxiety levels, and regain a sense of control. This intervention is non-invasive, empowering the client to develop a coping strategy for immediate use when feeling overwhelmed by anxiety. Administering medication (Choice A) should not be the first action unless the client is in severe distress. Encouraging attendance at a support group (Choice B) and identifying triggers of anxiety (Choice C) are important but teaching coping strategies like deep breathing comes first to help the client feel more in control of managing their anxiety.

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