Nursing Elites

1. After a severe automobile accident, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were brought to the hospital. Mrs. Johnson is unable to remember anything about the accident or the two days preceding it. The nurse recognizes this as:

• A. Generalized amnesia
• B. Localized amnesia
• C. Selective amnesia
• D. Continuous amnesia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Localized amnesia refers to an inability to recall specific events, often traumatic, within a particular time frame. In this case, Mrs. Johnson's memory loss about the accident and the preceding two days aligns with the characteristics of localized amnesia. Generalized amnesia involves a more extensive memory loss, often encompassing a person's entire life, which is not the case here. Selective amnesia involves forgetting specific details but not a whole chunk of time like in this scenario. Continuous amnesia is not a recognized term in psychology.

2. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed sertraline. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect associated with sertraline, a medication commonly used in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is essential for the nurse to monitor for nausea as it can impact the patient's adherence to the medication regimen. Educating the patient about this potential side effect and advising ways to manage it can enhance treatment compliance and overall therapeutic outcomes.

3. A patient with social anxiety disorder is learning cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. Which skill is most likely being taught?

• A. Avoiding social situations that cause anxiety
• B. Challenging and changing negative thoughts
• C. Using deep breathing exercises during social interactions
• D. Taking anti-anxiety medication before social events

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. In cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for social anxiety disorder, the focus is on challenging and changing negative thoughts that contribute to anxiety. This process involves identifying distorted thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced and realistic thoughts, helping individuals develop healthier perspectives on social situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding social situations, using deep breathing exercises, and taking medication are not the primary skills taught in CBT for social anxiety disorder. CBT aims to address the underlying thought patterns and behaviors that maintain anxiety, rather than avoidance or temporary relief.

4. In treating PTSD, which type of therapy is most commonly recommended?

• A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• B. Psychoanalytic therapy
• C. Humanistic therapy
• D. Gestalt therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most commonly recommended therapy for PTSD due to its effectiveness in helping patients identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors associated with trauma. This therapy focuses on providing practical coping strategies to manage symptoms and process traumatic experiences. Psychoanalytic therapy, humanistic therapy, and gestalt therapy are less commonly used for PTSD as they may not target the specific symptoms and cognitive distortions associated with this disorder.

5. What is the most effective initial intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

• A. Encourage the patient to discuss their feelings.
• B. Provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient.
• C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
• D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, the most effective initial intervention is to provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient. This approach can help the patient feel safe and supported, which may help reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack. Encouraging the patient to discuss their feelings may not be helpful during the acute phase of a panic attack as it can be overwhelming. Administering prescribed medication immediately is not typically the first-line intervention for panic attacks. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in the long term but may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic attack.

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