Nursing Elites

1. Which medication is commonly used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

• A. Lorazepam
• B. Fluoxetine
• C. Lithium
• D. Haloperidol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Fluoxetine (Choice B). Fluoxetine, an SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), is commonly used in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). SSRIs like Fluoxetine are considered first-line medications for managing OCD symptoms by helping to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which plays a role in mood regulation and anxiety reduction. Choice A, Lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine primarily used for anxiety disorders but is not a first-line treatment for OCD. Choice C, Lithium, is typically used in conditions like bipolar disorder, not OCD. Choice D, Haloperidol, is an antipsychotic medication and is not commonly used to treat OCD.

2. The nurse is providing medication education to a patient who has been prescribed lithium to stabilize mood. Which early signs and symptoms of toxicity should the nurse stress to the patient?

• A. Increased attentiveness
• B. Getting up at night to urinate
• C. Improved vision
• D. An upset stomach for no apparent reason

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct early sign of lithium toxicity that the nurse should stress to the patient is an upset stomach for no apparent reason. Early signs of lithium toxicity often manifest as gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This can serve as an important indicator for the patient to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Increased attentiveness, getting up at night to urinate, and improved vision are not early signs of lithium toxicity. It is crucial for the nurse to educate the patient on recognizing gastrointestinal symptoms as potential indicators of toxicity.

3. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates effective understanding of the medication?

• A. I will take this medication only when I feel anxious.
• B. I should start feeling less anxious within a few days.
• C. This medication can be addictive if taken for a long time.
• D. It may take a few weeks for this medication to become effective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because buspirone may take a few weeks to become effective in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Patients should be aware of this delay and not expect immediate relief from their symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because buspirone is typically taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice B is incorrect because the onset of action for buspirone is gradual, and patients should not expect immediate relief within a few days. Choice C is incorrect because buspirone is not considered addictive, unlike some other medications used for anxiety disorders.

4. A patient is receiving education about dietary restrictions while taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Which food should the patient avoid?

• A. Aged cheese
• B. Fresh vegetables
• C. Grilled chicken
• D. Fruit juices

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients taking MAOIs should avoid aged cheese as it contains high levels of tyramine, which can lead to a hypertensive crisis. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors can inhibit the breakdown of tyramine, leading to an excess accumulation in the body and potentially dangerous increases in blood pressure.

5. What is the primary benefit of using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating anxiety disorders?

• A. It focuses on long-term use of medications.
• B. It helps patients understand and change their thought patterns.
• C. It primarily addresses childhood traumas.
• D. It encourages patients to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary benefit of using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating anxiety disorders is that it helps patients understand and change their thought patterns. By addressing maladaptive thought processes and behaviors, CBT can effectively reduce anxiety symptoms and improve coping mechanisms. This approach empowers individuals to develop healthier responses to anxiety triggers, leading to long-lasting benefits beyond solely relying on medications or avoiding anxiety-provoking situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because CBT does not primarily focus on long-term use of medications, addressing childhood traumas, or encouraging avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations. While medications may be used in conjunction with CBT, the main focus of CBT is on cognitive restructuring and behavioral interventions to alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Similar Questions