which of the following is a negative symptom of schizophrenia
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which of the following is a negative symptom of schizophrenia?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Alogia, also known as poverty of speech, is a negative symptom of schizophrenia. It refers to a reduction in the amount of speech or the feeling that one has nothing to say. Hallucinations and delusions are positive symptoms, characterized by the presence of abnormal experiences and beliefs. Paranoia is a symptom involving intense anxious or fearful feelings, which is not classified as a negative symptom of schizophrenia.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. The client states, 'I am the president of the United States.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should avoid challenging the client's delusions directly. Asking for more information can help the nurse understand the client's experience and build rapport.

3. The healthcare provider is preparing to provide medication instruction for a patient. Which of the following understandings about anxiety will be essential to effective instruction?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mild anxiety sharpens the senses, increases the perceptual field, and results in heightened awareness of the environment, which enhances learning. As anxiety increases, attention span decreases, making learning more difficult. Therefore, mild anxiety is more conducive to effective instruction compared to moderate to severe anxiety, panic-level anxiety, or severe anxiety. Choice A is incorrect because moderate to severe anxiety impairs learning. Choice C is incorrect as panic-level anxiety can be overwhelming and hinder the learning process. Choice D is incorrect because severe anxiety typically leads to impaired attention span rather than enhancing it.

4. A patient with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention when a patient with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations is to ask the patient to describe the content of the hallucinations. This intervention helps assess the risk associated with the hallucinations and provides valuable insight into the patient's condition, aiding in developing an effective care plan. Encouraging the patient to ignore the voices (Choice A) may not address the underlying issues or risks associated with the hallucinations. Providing a structured and safe environment (Choice B) is important but does not directly address the hallucinations. Engaging the patient in a debate about the reality of the voices (Choice C) may worsen the situation by invalidating the patient's experiences.

5. In the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), what medication is frequently prescribed as a first-line treatment?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Buspirone is often chosen as a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) due to its efficacy and favorable side effect profile. Unlike benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (A), buspirone does not carry the risk of tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms, making it a preferred choice. While propranolol (C) and hydroxyzine (D) are sometimes used for anxiety, they are not typically considered first-line treatments for GAD.

Similar Questions

A nurse is reviewing prescriptions for a patient with major depression at the county clinic. Since the patient has a mild intellectual disability, the nurse would question which classification of antidepressant drugs:
Which chronic medical condition commonly triggers major depressive disorder?
A client with generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
When caring for a client with major depressive disorder, what is the most appropriate short-term goal for the client?
After a client with major depressive disorder undergoes electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which of the following is a priority assessment for the nurse?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses