what is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety
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1. What is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drowsiness. Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety, often cause drowsiness as a side effect due to their sedative properties. This can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor skills, making it important for individuals on these medications to exercise caution when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more commonly reported side effects.

2. Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient experiencing a severe manic episode?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a severe manic episode, it is crucial to provide a structured and low-stimulation environment to help manage the symptoms effectively. This environment aims to reduce stimuli that can exacerbate manic behavior and provide a sense of predictability and safety for the individual. Group activities, detailed information provision, or unsupervised time may not be suitable during a severe manic episode as they can potentially worsen the condition or pose safety risks.

3. Which individual is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The individual describing feeling like they are looking at life through a fog and questioning their reflection in the mirror is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization. Derealization involves feelings of detachment from one's surroundings, which can manifest as a sense of unreality or distortion of the environment. Choice B describes dissociative amnesia, which involves memory loss related to personal information or traumatic events. Choice C suggests dissociative identity disorder (DID), where a person experiences two or more distinct identities or personality states. Choice D indicates symptoms of a panic attack, such as fearing imminent death and physical sensations like a heart attack.

4. When developing a care plan for a patient with borderline personality disorder, which intervention should be included to address self-harm behaviors?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Developing a safety plan with the patient is crucial when addressing self-harm behaviors in individuals with borderline personality disorder. This intervention helps outline steps to take during a crisis, identifies triggers, and provides strategies to prevent self-harm incidents. It involves collaboratively creating a plan between the patient and the healthcare team to ensure a structured and supportive approach to managing potentially dangerous situations.

5. What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing severe anxiety?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient is experiencing severe anxiety, remaining with the patient and providing a calm presence is the most appropriate intervention. This approach can help the patient feel supported and safe, which can help in reducing their anxiety levels. Encouraging the patient to talk about their anxiety may not be suitable during a severe anxiety episode, as it can potentially escalate their distress. Teaching deep breathing exercises can be helpful, but in cases of severe anxiety, the patient may find it challenging to focus on such techniques. Suggesting physical activity may not be suitable as the patient might not be in a state to engage in such activities when experiencing severe anxiety.

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