which patient statement suggests the presence of dissociative amnesia

ATI LPN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which patient statement suggests the presence of dissociative amnesia?

A. I keep forgetting where I put my keys.
B. I don’t remember the accident that brought me here or the past two days.
C. Sometimes I feel like I’m watching myself from outside my body.
D. I often lose track of time when I’m reading.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the statement reflects a significant gap in memory related to a traumatic event, which is characteristic of dissociative amnesia. Choice A is more indicative of normal forgetfulness and absentmindedness. Choice C suggests depersonalization or dissociative identity disorder rather than dissociative amnesia. Choice D describes a common experience related to concentration while reading, not memory loss as seen in dissociative amnesia.

2. Luc’s family comes home one evening to find him extremely agitated, and they suspect he is in a full manic episode. The family calls emergency medical services. While one medic is talking with Luc and his family, the other medic is counting something on his desk. What is the medic most likely counting?

A. Hypodermic needles
B. Fast food wrappers
C. Empty soda cans
D. Energy drink containers

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The medic is most likely counting energy drink containers. Energy drink containers could indicate high caffeine intake, which can exacerbate manic episodes by increasing agitation and exacerbating symptoms in individuals with mood disorders.

3. What principle about patient communication should guide a nurse's fear of 'saying the wrong thing' to a patient?

A. Patients tend to appreciate a well-meaning person who conveys genuine acceptance, respect, and concern for their situation.
B. Patients are more interested in talking to you than listening to what you have to say, so they are not likely to be offended.
C. Considering the patient's history, there is little chance that the comment will do any actual harm.
D. Most people with a mental illness have, by necessity, developed a high tolerance for forgiveness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Effective patient communication is guided by the principle that patients value genuine acceptance, respect, and concern from their caregivers. This approach helps to build trust and fosters effective communication, enhancing the nurse-patient relationship. Choice B is incorrect because patients value both talking and listening in effective communication. Choice C is incorrect because a nurse should always consider the impact of their words on the patient, regardless of the patient's history. Choice D is incorrect as it generalizes about people with mental illness and forgiveness, which is not directly relevant to patient communication.

4. James is a 42-year-old patient with schizophrenia. He approaches you as you arrive for the day shift and anxiously reports, “Last night, demons came to my room and tried to rape me.” Which response would be most therapeutic?

A. There are no such things as demons. What you saw were hallucinations.
B. It is not possible for anyone to enter your room at night. You are safe here.
C. You seem very upset. Please tell me more about what you experienced last night.
D. That must have been very frightening, but we’ll check on you at night and you’ll be safe.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most therapeutic response acknowledges the patient's emotional state and invites further discussion about their experience. By saying, 'You seem very upset. Please tell me more about what you experienced last night,' the nurse shows empathy and openness, providing a supportive environment for the patient to express their feelings and perceptions.

5. 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.