Nursing Elites

1. What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
• B. Provide a quiet and non-stimulating environment.
• C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
• D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, it is crucial to provide a quiet and non-stimulating environment to help the patient feel safe and reduce sensory overload. This approach can help the patient focus on calming down and regaining control. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings may exacerbate the panic attack by increasing stress and arousal levels. Administering medication should be done following healthcare provider's orders, as it may not be appropriate to give medication immediately without proper assessment. Teaching relaxation techniques might not be effective during the acute phase of a panic attack when the individual is overwhelmed by intense anxiety.

2. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is prescribed fluvoxamine. What is a common side effect of this medication?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Weight gain
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect of fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used in the treatment of OCD. Patients should be advised to monitor and report any gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, to their healthcare provider.

3. A patient with major depressive disorder is struggling to cope. Which intervention is most appropriate to help the patient develop better coping skills?

• A. Encouraging the patient to express their feelings through art
• B. Providing the patient with information about their diagnosis
• C. Encouraging the patient to keep a journal of their thoughts and feelings
• D. Providing the patient with a structured daily routine

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Providing a patient with major depressive disorder a structured daily routine can help them establish a sense of stability, which is crucial for coping with their condition. Routine provides predictability and helps in organizing activities, promoting a sense of accomplishment and control, which can be especially beneficial for individuals struggling with depression.

4. What is the primary goal of exposure therapy for a patient with specific phobia?

• A. To eliminate the phobic response completely
• B. To increase the patient's exposure to the feared object
• C. To help the patient confront and reduce their fear gradually
• D. To provide immediate relief from anxiety symptoms

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of exposure therapy for a patient with a specific phobia is to help them confront their fear gradually, leading to a reduction in their fear response over time. This gradual exposure helps the individual learn to manage and cope with their phobia, ultimately reducing the intensity of their fear reactions. Choice A is incorrect because while the goal is to reduce the fear response, complete elimination may not always be feasible. Choice B is incorrect as the focus is not solely on increasing exposure but on gradual confrontation. Choice D is incorrect as the therapy aims for long-term reduction rather than immediate relief.

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

• A. Weight gain
• B. Insomnia
• C. Drowsiness
• D. Increased appetite

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.

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