sandy took part in the april 2013 boston marathon where two bombs were detonated near the finish line killing three spectators for approximately 2 wee
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Psychological Exam

1. Sandy took part in the April 2013 Boston Marathon, where two bombs were detonated near the finish line, killing three spectators. For approximately 2 weeks after the marathon, Sandy was unable to sleep or concentrate and often found herself reliving the moment she heard the bombs explode. What disorder might Sandy be diagnosed with?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sandy might be diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD typically develops after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the event, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened reactivity. While acute stress disorder can occur shortly after a traumatic event, the duration of symptoms in the scenario suggests a more prolonged impact, aligning with PTSD. Phobic disorder and panic disorder are not as closely related to the described symptoms as PTSD.

2. How is pruning best defined?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pruning is the process of eliminating unused synapses in the brain. This process helps the brain to become more efficient by strengthening important connections and eliminating unnecessary ones. Choice B is incorrect because pruning is about eliminating synapses, not developing them. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the general concept of connections between neurons, not specifically about pruning. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the myelin sheath, which is responsible for rapid transmission of information along neurons, not pruning.

3. What role do genetic predispositions play in the development of mental disorders?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic predispositions are indeed a factor in the development of mental disorders, but they are not the sole determining factor. While genetics can predispose individuals to certain conditions, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and life experiences also play a significant role. Choice A is incorrect because mental disorders are influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Choice C is incorrect as genetic predispositions do have an impact on mental health. Choice D is incorrect as genetic predispositions do not guarantee the development of mental disorders, as other factors also contribute to their onset.

4. What term refers to the awareness that other people have their own intentions, desires, wants, and motives?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Theory of mind.' Theory of mind is the understanding that others have their own thoughts, feelings, and intentions. This ability allows individuals to attribute mental states to others, enabling them to understand and predict behavior based on those mental states. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not specifically address the awareness of others' intentions, desires, wants, and motives.

5. Latresha is not hungry, is extremely tired, and doesn't feel like doing much of anything. She often feels that life is just hopeless. These symptoms have been going on for 2 months now. She probably is suffering from which mood disorder?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Major Depressive Disorder. Latresha's symptoms of prolonged sadness, fatigue, and lack of interest in activities lasting for 2 months indicate a major depressive episode. Generalized anxiety disorder (A) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety, not necessarily prolonged sadness. Bipolar disorder (B) involves episodes of both mania and depression, not solely prolonged sadness. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (D) is characterized by obsessions and compulsions, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

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