Nursing Elites

1. When providing care for 10-year-old Harper diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which goal should be addressed initially?

• A. Harper will be able to identify feelings through the use of play therapy.
• B. Harper and her parents will have access to protective resources available through social services.
• C. Harper will demonstrate the effective use of relaxation techniques to restore a sense of control over disturbing thoughts.
• D. Harper and her parents will demonstrate an understanding of the personal human response to traumatic events.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The initial goal when caring for a child with PTSD like Harper is to address restoring a sense of control over disturbing thoughts by teaching relaxation techniques. This approach helps the child manage their distressing emotions and promotes a feeling of empowerment in dealing with their condition.

2. A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which medication is commonly prescribed for this phase of the disorder?

• A. Valproic acid
• B. Risperidone
• C. Fluoxetine
• D. Lithium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Fluoxetine. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly prescribed to manage the depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. SSRIs are effective in treating the depressive phase of bipolar disorder as they help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Choice A, Valproic acid, is used more commonly in the treatment of acute mania or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder. Choice B, Risperidone, is an atypical antipsychotic often used to manage psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder. Choice D, Lithium, is primarily used for the maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder to prevent future manic and depressive episodes.

3. While assessing a distraught female high school student who is overly concerned because her parents can't afford horseback riding lessons, how should the nurse interpret the student's reaction to her perceived problem?

• A. The problem is endangering her well-being.
• B. The problem is personally relevant to her.
• C. The problem is based on immaturity.
• D. The problem is exceeding her capacity to cope.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the student being overly concerned about not being able to afford horseback riding lessons indicates that the problem is personally relevant to her. Psychological stressors related to self-esteem and self-image are influenced by how an individual perceives a situation or event. Adolescents, in particular, place significance on self-image and feeling entitled to experiences that other adolescents have, which can lead to distress when such desires are not met. Choice A is incorrect because there is no indication that the student's physical well-being is at risk. Choice C is incorrect as it simplifies the issue by attributing it solely to immaturity. Choice D is incorrect as there is no evidence provided that the problem is beyond the student's coping abilities.

4. Which medication is typically prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

• A. Haloperidol
• B. Sertraline
• C. Methylphenidate
• D. Clozapine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant often prescribed to manage symptoms of ADHD. It works by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. Haloperidol, Sertraline, and Clozapine are not typically used as first-line treatments for ADHD. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic used in conditions like schizophrenia, Sertraline is an antidepressant primarily for mood disorders, and Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic for treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

5. Tomas is a 21-year-old male with a recent diagnosis of schizophrenia. Tomas's nurse recognizes that self-medicating with excessive alcohol is common in this disease and can co-occur along with:

• A. Generally good health despite the mental illness.
• B. An aversion to drinking fluids.
• C. Anxiety and depression.
• D. The ability to express his needs.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Individuals with schizophrenia often turn to excessive alcohol consumption as a way to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. This maladaptive coping mechanism can exacerbate the challenges associated with schizophrenia and may hinder effective treatment outcomes. Recognizing the presence of anxiety and depression alongside alcohol abuse is crucial for providing holistic care and support to individuals with schizophrenia.

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