which patient would the nurse suspect of experiencing symptoms of derealization

ATI LPN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which individual is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization?

A. I just feel like Iâ€™m looking at life through a fog and that canâ€™t be my face in the mirror.
B. I cannot recall why Iâ€™m living in this town or how I got here.
C. There are just too many people living in my head now.
D. I feel like Iâ€™m going to die, Iâ€™m having a heart attack.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The individual describing feeling like they are looking at life through a fog and questioning their reflection in the mirror is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization. Derealization involves feelings of detachment from one's surroundings, which can manifest as a sense of unreality or distortion of the environment. Choice B describes dissociative amnesia, which involves memory loss related to personal information or traumatic events. Choice C suggests dissociative identity disorder (DID), where a person experiences two or more distinct identities or personality states. Choice D indicates symptoms of a panic attack, such as fearing imminent death and physical sensations like a heart attack.

2. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

A. I can take this medication on an as-needed basis.
B. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effect of this medication.
C. This medication has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
D. I should take this medication consistently every day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Buspirone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis. It should be taken consistently every day to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Choice B is correct as it accurately reflects that buspirone may take a few weeks to reach its full effect. Choice C is also correct as buspirone indeed has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines. Choice D is correct because taking buspirone consistently every day is the appropriate way to use this medication.

3. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching?

A. I should take this medication consistently rather than on an as-needed basis.
B. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effect of this medication.
C. This medication has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
D. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because buspirone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis. It should be taken consistently to achieve optimal effectiveness in managing generalized anxiety disorder. Taking it as needed may lead to inadequate symptom control and reduced therapeutic benefits.

4. What is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?

A. Weight gain
B. Insomnia
C. Drowsiness
D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drowsiness. Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety, often cause drowsiness as a side effect due to their sedative properties. This can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor skills, making it important for individuals on these medications to exercise caution when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more commonly reported side effects.

5. Which medication is often prescribed for patients with bipolar disorder to help stabilize mood?

A. Sertraline
B. Lithium
C. Haloperidol
D. Diazepam

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lithium is the medication frequently prescribed to stabilize mood in patients with bipolar disorder. It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes, making it a cornerstone in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Sertraline is an antidepressant commonly used for depression, while haloperidol and diazepam are not typically first-line treatments for bipolar disorder.