Nursing Elites

1. Which symptom is most indicative of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

• A. Persistent low mood
• B. Frequent nightmares
• C. Hallucinations
• D. Compulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Frequent nightmares are a hallmark symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals with PTSD often experience intrusive and distressing nightmares related to the traumatic event they have experienced. These nightmares can contribute to sleep disturbances and further exacerbate the individual's overall psychological distress. Persistent low mood, hallucinations, and compulsive behaviors are not specific symptoms of PTSD and are more commonly associated with other mental health conditions such as depression, psychotic disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder respectively.

2. A patient with panic disorder is prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). What should the nurse include in the patient’s education?

• A. SSRIs are fast-acting medications that can relieve anxiety immediately.
• B. It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects of SSRIs to be felt.
• C. SSRIs have a high potential for abuse and dependence.
• D. The patient should discontinue the medication once they feel better.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients prescribed with SSRIs need to be educated that it may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects of the medication to be experienced. This delay is important for patient understanding and compliance with the treatment plan. Choice A is incorrect because SSRIs do not provide immediate relief and may take weeks to show significant improvement. Choice C is inaccurate as SSRIs are not known for having a high potential for abuse and dependence. Choice D is incorrect as patients should never discontinue medication abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider.

3. Gilbert, age 19, is described by his parents as a ‘moody child’ with an onset of odd behavior at age 14, which caused Gilbert to suffer academically and socially. Gilbert has lost the ability to complete household chores, is reluctant to leave the house, and is obsessed with the locks on the windows and doors. Due to Gilbert’s early and slow onset of what is now recognized as schizophrenia, his prognosis is considered:

• A. Favorable with medication
• B. In the relapse stage
• C. Improvable with psychosocial interventions
• D. To have a less positive outcome

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A person like Gilbert, with an early and slow onset of schizophrenia along with severe symptoms such as loss of daily functioning and obsessions, is likely to have a less positive outcome. Early and severe symptoms are often associated with a more chronic and debilitating course of schizophrenia, which can make treatment and recovery more challenging. Therefore, Gilbert's prognosis is considered to have a less positive outcome. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because Gilbert's condition, with its early onset and severe symptoms impacting daily life, suggests a more challenging prognosis that is less likely to be favorable with just medication or psychosocial interventions. Being in the relapse stage is not the primary concern here; the focus is on the overall outcome which is expected to be less positive given the early and severe nature of Gilbert's symptoms.

4. 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.

5. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the best initial intervention?

• A. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers
• B. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings
• C. Providing the patient with relaxation techniques
• D. Advising the patient to avoid social situations

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best initial intervention for a patient with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is to provide relaxation techniques. This approach helps the patient manage flashbacks by focusing on the present moment, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety associated with the traumatic memories. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers or social situations may not address the immediate distress caused by flashbacks, while talking about feelings may not be as effective as providing immediate tools to manage the distressing symptoms.

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