which of the following is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder gad
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Excessive worry is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Individuals with GAD often experience persistent and excessive worry or anxiety about a variety of situations or activities, even when there is little or no reason to worry. This chronic worrying can significantly impact their daily functioning and quality of life, distinguishing it as a key feature of GAD. Flashbacks are more commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), not GAD. Hallucinations are not typically seen in GAD but may be present in conditions like schizophrenia. Compulsive behaviors are characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), not GAD.

2. During an assessment of a client with suspected substance use disorder, which of the following findings should the nurse expect? Select one that doesn't apply.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In clients with substance use disorder, common findings include increased tolerance to the substance, withdrawal symptoms when not using it, and unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use. Feelings of hopelessness are not typically a direct manifestation of substance use disorder. Instead, feelings of hopelessness may be associated with other mental health conditions or situational factors. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choices B, C, and D are all expected findings in clients with substance use disorder.

3. In the treatment of a patient with bipolar disorder experiencing a depressive episode, which medication is commonly prescribed?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Fluoxetine. Fluoxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, is used to manage depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. It helps alleviate symptoms of depression by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of sadness and hopelessness. While mood stabilizers like lithium are often used in bipolar disorder, for depressive episodes, antidepressants like fluoxetine are preferred to address the specific symptoms associated with depression. Valproic acid is a mood stabilizer often used in bipolar disorder to manage manic episodes. Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic that may be used in bipolar disorder to help control manic episodes or as an adjunctive treatment, but it is not a first-line medication for depressive episodes.

4. A client has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should the nurse implement to reduce the client's anxiety?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce anxiety for clients with PTSD. These techniques promote relaxation and help manage stress responses, contributing to a sense of calmness and improved coping mechanisms in dealing with anxiety triggers associated with PTSD. Avoiding discussing the traumatic event (Choice A) may hinder the client's progress in processing and coping with the trauma. While group therapy (Choice B) can be beneficial, relaxation techniques are more specific for reducing anxiety in this context. Maintaining a daily journal (Choice D) may be helpful for some clients but might not directly address anxiety reduction as effectively as relaxation techniques.

5. A client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia states, 'The FBI is watching me. I see their agents everywhere.' Which is the nurse's most appropriate response?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Validating the client's feelings without reinforcing the delusion is important. This response acknowledges the client's fear without agreeing with the delusion. It shows empathy and understanding towards the client's emotions while not validating the delusional belief.

Similar Questions

A client with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
When educating a client prescribed diazepam for anxiety, which statement indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?
A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching? Select one that does not apply.
A client is prescribed lorazepam (Ativan) for the management of anxiety. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
A client prescribed fluoxetine for depression is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?

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