Nursing Elites

1. In a patient with schizophrenia, which of the following symptoms would indicate a poor prognosis?

• A. Auditory hallucinations
• B. Paranoia
• C. Flat affect
• D. Delusions of grandeur

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A flat affect, characterized by a lack of emotional expression, is often linked to a poorer prognosis in schizophrenia. It can hinder social interactions and affect the individual's ability to engage in therapy or express emotions, thereby impacting the overall treatment outcomes. Auditory hallucinations (Choice A) and delusions of grandeur (Choice D) are common symptoms in schizophrenia but may not always indicate a poor prognosis. Paranoia (Choice B) can also vary in its impact on prognosis depending on the individual and the severity of the symptom.

2. Which of the following is an uncommon symptom of schizophrenia?

• A. Delusions
• B. Fatigue
• C. Disorganized speech
• D. Catatonia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Common symptoms of schizophrenia include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, and catatonia. Fatigue is not typically considered a direct symptom of schizophrenia. It is important to focus on symptoms directly related to the disorder when identifying schizophrenia.

3. 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.

4. A healthcare professional is providing care for a client with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Which client behavior would the healthcare professional identify as characteristic of a manic episode?

• A. Sleeping excessively
• B. Excessive energy
• C. Decreased appetite
• D. Lack of interest in activities

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a manic episode in bipolar disorder, individuals often experience heightened energy levels, increased goal-directed activity, and may engage in risky behaviors. This excessive energy is a key characteristic of manic episodes. Choice A, sleeping excessively, is more characteristic of a depressive episode. Choice C, decreased appetite, can be seen in various mood disorders but is not specific to manic episodes. Choice D, lack of interest in activities, is more indicative of a depressive episode rather than a manic episode. It is important for healthcare professionals to recognize these signs to provide appropriate care and support to individuals with bipolar disorder.

5. 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.

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