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. 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: Choice C is the most therapeutic response as it acknowledges the patient’s feelings, shows empathy, and encourages further expression of his experiences. By actively listening and inviting the patient to share more details, the healthcare provider provides a supportive environment that can help the patient feel understood and validated. Option A dismisses the patient's experience and can make him feel unheard. Option B denies the patient's reality and can increase his distress. Option D, while offering reassurance, does not address the patient's emotional state or encourage further communication.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a patient with bipolar disorder. Which finding suggests the patient is experiencing a manic episode?

• A. Decreased need for sleep
• B. Feelings of worthlessness
• C. Increased need for sleep
• D. Avoidance of social interactions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a manic episode in patients with bipolar disorder, they often experience a decreased need for sleep. This symptom is characterized by feeling rested after only a few hours of sleep, or even feeling like they can go without sleep for extended periods without feeling tired. The increased energy levels and racing thoughts during a manic episode contribute to the decreased need for sleep.

4. Which intervention should a healthcare professional implement to help a patient with social anxiety disorder?

• A. Encourage participation in group therapy sessions.
• B. Suggest practicing relaxation techniques during social interactions.
• C. Advise the patient to avoid social situations that cause anxiety.
• D. Teach the patient cognitive restructuring techniques.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Teaching cognitive restructuring techniques is an effective intervention for patients with social anxiety disorder. This approach helps individuals challenge and change their negative thought patterns, leading to improved coping mechanisms in social situations. Choice A, encouraging participation in group therapy sessions, may be overwhelming for individuals with social anxiety. Choice B, suggesting relaxation techniques, may offer short-term relief but does not address the underlying cognitive distortions. Choice C, advising avoidance of social situations, reinforces avoidance behaviors and does not promote long-term improvement in managing social anxiety.

5. Which characteristic is most commonly associated with dissociative identity disorder?

• A. Frequent nightmares
• B. Auditory hallucinations
• C. Multiple distinct personalities
• D. Chronic fatigue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dissociative identity disorder, commonly known as multiple personality disorder, is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states within an individual. These distinct personalities may have their own way of perceiving and interacting with the world, often leading to gaps in memory and a sense of detachment. Frequent nightmares, auditory hallucinations, and chronic fatigue are not primary characteristics of dissociative identity disorder. Option C, multiple distinct personalities, is the hallmark feature of this disorder, making it the correct choice.

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