a patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed propranolol the nurse understands that this medication is used primarily to

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

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. Which chronic medical condition commonly triggers major depressive disorder?

A. Pain
B. Hypertension
C. Hypothyroidism
D. Crohn's disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Chronic pain is a common trigger for major depressive disorder. The persistent and distressing nature of chronic pain can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and contribute to the development of major depressive disorder in individuals experiencing it.

3. How do psychiatrists determine which diagnosis to give a patient?

A. Psychiatrists use pre-established criteria from the APA's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
B. Hospital policy dictates how psychiatrists diagnose mental disorders.
C. Psychiatrists assess the patient and identify diagnoses based on the patient's symptoms and contributing factors.
D. The American Medical Association identifies 10 diagnostic labels that psychiatrists can choose from.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Psychiatrists use pre-established criteria from the APA's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to determine which diagnosis to give a patient. The DSM-5 is a comprehensive manual published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that outlines specific criteria for diagnosing mental disorders. It aims to ensure accurate and consistent diagnosis and treatment. Choices B and D provide inaccurate information. Hospital policy does not dictate psychiatric diagnoses, and the American Medical Association does not provide diagnostic labels for mental disorders. Choice C, although mentioning the assessment of patients, does not highlight the specific criteria and guidelines provided by the DSM-5 that psychiatrists use to assign diagnoses.

4. Which client statement should alert a nurse that a client may be responding maladaptively to stress?

A. I've found that avoiding contact with others helps me cope.
B. I really enjoy journaling; it's my private time.
C. I signed up for a yoga class this week.
D. I made an appointment to meet with a therapist.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Reliance on social isolation as a coping mechanism is maladaptive and can hinder the development of appropriate coping skills and access to support systems. It may indicate a lack of healthy coping strategies and social connections, which are important for managing stress effectively. Choice B is a positive coping strategy that promotes self-reflection and emotional expression. Choice C reflects a proactive approach to managing stress through physical activity. Choice D shows a willingness to seek professional help, which is a healthy coping mechanism.

5. A client has been diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?

A. Distrust of others
B. Reluctance to confide in others
C. Suspiciousness of others
D. Jealousy of others

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Individuals with paranoid personality disorder commonly display a pervasive distrust of others. They often interpret benign actions of others as hostile or malicious, leading to suspicion and a belief that others have malevolent intentions. While choices B, C, and D may be present in individuals with different personality disorders or issues, distrust of others is a hallmark feature of paranoid personality disorder, making it the correct behavior to expect in these clients.