Nursing Elites

1. Which symptom is most commonly associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

• A. Frequent mood swings
• B. Intrusive, repetitive thoughts
• C. Hallucinations
• D. Flashbacks

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Intrusive, repetitive thoughts. Intrusive, repetitive thoughts are the hallmark symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Individuals with OCD experience persistent, unwanted thoughts or obsessions that lead to repetitive behaviors or compulsions. These thoughts are intrusive and difficult to control, causing significant distress and interfering with daily activities. While mood swings, hallucinations, and flashbacks can be present in other mental health conditions, they are not the primary symptoms associated with OCD.

2. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is prescribed fluvoxamine. What is a common side effect of this medication?

• A. Increased appetite
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Weight gain
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nausea is a common side effect of fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used in the treatment of OCD. Patients should be advised to monitor and report any gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, to their healthcare provider.

3. A charge nurse is conducting a class on therapeutic communication with a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following aspects of communication should the nurse identify as a component of verbal communication?

• A. Personal space
• B. Posture
• C. Eye contact
• D. Intonation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Verbal communication involves the use of words, tone, and pitch to convey messages. Intonation refers to the variation of pitch in speech, which can convey emotions, attitudes, and emphasize certain points. Therefore, intonation is a key component of verbal communication, making it the correct choice in this scenario. Choices A, B, and C are aspects of nonverbal communication. Personal space, posture, and eye contact are important nonverbal cues that contribute to effective communication, but they are not components of verbal communication.

4. Which of the following interventions is most effective in managing a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

• A. Encouraging the patient to engage in repetitive behaviors.
• B. Helping the patient to understand that their thoughts are irrational.
• C. Providing the patient with a structured daily routine.
• D. Allowing the patient to avoid situations that trigger their obsessions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective intervention in managing a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is helping the patient to understand that their thoughts are irrational. This cognitive-behavioral approach can assist in reducing the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors by challenging and reframing maladaptive beliefs and thought patterns associated with OCD. Encouraging the patient to engage in repetitive behaviors (choice A) reinforces the compulsive behavior rather than addressing the underlying issue. Providing a structured daily routine (choice C) may help in some cases but does not directly target the irrational thoughts and beliefs. Allowing the patient to avoid trigger situations (choice D) can provide temporary relief but does not address the core problem of irrational thoughts and behaviors.

5. When a patient is diagnosed with major depressive disorder, which nursing diagnosis should be the priority?

• A. Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
• B. Risk for suicide
• C. Disturbed sleep pattern
• D. Ineffective coping

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is 'Risk for suicide.' This is the priority as it addresses the immediate risk of self-harm in individuals suffering from major depressive disorder. Monitoring and intervening to prevent self-harm take precedence over other nursing diagnoses in this scenario.

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