Nursing Elites

1. During a routine health screening, a grieving widow whose husband died 15 months ago reports emptiness, a loss of self, difficulty thinking of the future, and anger at her dead husband. The nurse suggests bereavement counseling. The widow is most likely suffering from:

• A. Major depression
• B. Normal grieving
• C. Adjustment disorder
• D. Posttraumatic stress disorder

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The widow's symptoms align more closely with an adjustment disorder rather than major depression, normal grieving, or posttraumatic stress disorder. The widow's prolonged struggle in coping with the loss, characterized by emptiness, loss of self, difficulty envisioning the future, and anger towards her deceased husband, indicates an inability to adapt to the loss. These symptoms are indicative of an adjustment disorder, which typically arises in response to a significant life stressor and persists beyond what is considered a normal grieving process. Bereavement counseling can help the widow navigate her emotions and coping strategies during this challenging period.

2. A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed an antipsychotic medication. Which of the following side effects should the nurse not monitor for? Select all that apply.

• A. Tardive dyskinesia
• B. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• C. Orthostatic hypotension
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nurse should not monitor for tardive dyskinesia as it is a potential long-term side effect of antipsychotic medications. However, the nurse should monitor for neuroleptic malignant syndrome, orthostatic hypotension, and hyperglycemia as these are common side effects associated with antipsychotic medications. Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary movements of the face, tongue, and extremities and may develop after prolonged use of antipsychotic drugs.

3. In treating a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), what is the most appropriate goal of this therapy?

• A. To explore the patient's childhood experiences.
• B. To reduce the patient's symptoms through medication.
• C. To change the patient's negative thought patterns.
• D. To improve the patient's social skills.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is to change the patient's negative thought patterns. This therapy focuses on identifying and modifying distorted thinking patterns that contribute to anxiety. Exploring childhood experiences (Choice A) may be part of therapy, but the primary focus is on present thoughts and behaviors. While medication (Choice B) can help manage symptoms, CBT aims to address the root cause through cognitive restructuring. Improving social skills (Choice D) is not the primary goal of CBT for GAD, although it may be a secondary benefit as confidence improves with reduced anxiety.

4. James is a 42-year-old patient with schizophrenia. He approaches you as you arrive for the day shift and anxiously reports, 'Last night, demons came to my room and tried to rape me.' Which response would be most therapeutic?

• A. There are no such things as demons. What you saw were hallucinations.
• B. It is not possible for anyone to enter your room at night. You are safe here.
• C. You seem very upset. Please tell me more about what you experienced last night.
• D. That must have been very frightening, but we'll check on you at night and you'll be safe.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Response C is the most therapeutic as it shows empathy and encourages the patient to express their feelings and share more about their experience. By actively listening and inviting the patient to talk, the nurse creates a supportive environment that can help the patient feel heard and understood, which is essential in building trust and rapport in therapeutic communication with individuals experiencing schizophrenia.

5. Substance abuse is often present in individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Laura, a 28-year-old with a bipolar disorder diagnosis, chooses to drink alcohol instead of taking her prescribed medications. The nurse caring for this patient recognizes that:

• A. Anxiety may be present.
• B. Alcohol ingestion is a form of self-medication.
• C. The patient is lacking a sufficient number of neurotransmitters.
• D. The patient is using alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Individuals with bipolar disorder may turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication to cope with their symptoms. This behavior is often seen as an attempt to manage mood swings and alleviate distress. It is important for healthcare providers to address and manage substance abuse issues in patients with bipolar disorder to ensure proper treatment and overall well-being.

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