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 diagnosed with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

• A. Encourage the client to participate in group therapy.
• B. Place the client in a private room to decrease stimulation.
• C. Encourage the client to participate in physical activity.
• D. Administer a prescribed sedative.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a manic episode, individuals with bipolar disorder may be easily overstimulated. Placing the client in a private room to decrease environmental stimuli is the priority intervention. This action can help reduce the risk of exacerbating manic symptoms and promote a calmer environment for the client. Choice A is not the priority as group therapy may be overwhelming during a manic episode. Choice C could potentially increase stimulation rather than decrease it. Choice D should not be the first action as sedatives are generally not the initial intervention for managing manic episodes.

4. A client has been prescribed lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
• B. Take the medication with food to prevent stomach upset.
• C. You may experience mild nausea when initiating the medication.
• D. Do not double the next dose if you miss one.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide is to advise the client to avoid driving until they know how the medication affects them. Lithium can lead to side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which could impair one's ability to drive safely. Choice B is incorrect because lithium is usually taken on an empty stomach. Choice C may be true but is not as critical as the potential side effects affecting driving. Choice D is important but not as immediate as ensuring the client's safety while driving.

5. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and is exhibiting negative symptoms. Which of the following is an example of a negative symptom?

• A. Hallucinations
• B. Delusions
• C. Apathy
• D. Disorganized speech

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Apathy is a negative symptom of schizophrenia characterized by a lack of interest or motivation. Negative symptoms involve a decrease or absence of normal functions, such as emotions, motivation, or socialization, rather than the presence of abnormal behaviors like hallucinations or delusions. Hallucinations (choice A) and delusions (choice B) are positive symptoms, which involve the presence of abnormal behaviors. Disorganized speech (choice D) is an example of a disorganized symptom, not a negative symptom.

Similar Questions