Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?

• A. Memory loss
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Memory loss, particularly short-term memory loss, is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). ECT can affect memory due to its impact on brain function during and after treatment. While the memory issues are often temporary and tend to improve over time, they are important considerations when discussing the risks and benefits of ECT with patients. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not common side effects of ECT.

2. A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spends several hours each day washing her hands. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Encourage the client to wash her hands less frequently.
• B. Set a time limit for hand washing.
• C. Teach the client relaxation techniques.
• D. Discourage the client from washing her hands.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Setting a time limit for hand washing is an appropriate intervention for a client with OCD who spends excessive time on this compulsive behavior. By setting a time limit, the nurse can help the client gradually reduce the compulsive behavior, promoting a more manageable approach to hand washing without completely discouraging it. Encouraging the client to wash her hands less frequently (Choice A) may not address the root of the issue and could lead to increased anxiety. Teaching relaxation techniques (Choice C) may be helpful for overall anxiety management but may not directly address the excessive hand washing behavior. Discouraging the client from washing her hands (Choice D) may increase anxiety and resistance, making it a less effective intervention.

3. Which statement reflects an accurate understanding of the concepts of mental health and mental illness?

• A. The concepts are rigid and religiously based.
• B. The concepts are multidimensional and culturally defined.
• C. The concepts are universal and unchanging.
• D. The concepts are unidimensional and fixed.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Understanding mental health and mental illness as multidimensional and culturally defined is essential for healthcare professionals. Mental health varies across cultures and is influenced by various dimensions such as biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. Recognizing these differences helps in providing culturally competent care and understanding the diverse expressions of mental health and illness. Choice A is incorrect because mental health and mental illness are not rigid or solely based on religion. Choice C is incorrect because mental health and mental illness are not universally experienced in the same way and can change over time. Choice D is incorrect because mental health and mental illness are not unidimensional; they involve various factors and are not fixed in nature.

4. A client has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Which is an appropriate short-term goal for the client?

• A. The client will report a decrease in depressive symptoms.
• B. The client will establish a sleep routine.
• C. The client will improve social interactions.
• D. The client will set realistic goals for the future.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Setting a goal for the client to report a decrease in depressive symptoms is appropriate as it is specific, measurable, and achievable in the short term. Monitoring changes in depressive symptoms provides valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the treatment plan. While establishing a sleep routine, improving social interactions, and setting realistic goals for the future are important aspects of recovery, they are more suitable as intermediate or long-term goals. In the context of short-term goals, focusing on symptom reduction can provide immediate feedback on the client's progress and help adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

5. During an assessment, a nurse observes a client showing signs of moderate anxiety. Which symptom is not typically associated with moderate anxiety?

• A. Fidgeting
• B. Laughing inappropriately
• C. Palpitations
• D. Nail biting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When assessing a client with moderate anxiety, the nurse should anticipate signs such as fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting. These behaviors are common manifestations of increased stress levels. Palpitations, on the other hand, are more commonly associated with severe anxiety or panic attacks. Other symptoms of severe anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

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