Nursing Elites

1. A 33-year-old female diagnosed with bipolar I disorder has been functioning well on lithium for 11 months. At her most recent checkup, the psychiatric nurse practitioner states, 'You are ready to enter the maintenance therapy stage, so at this time I am going to adjust your dosage by prescribing:'

• A. A higher dosage
• B. Once-weekly dosing
• C. A lower dosage
• D. A different drug

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During the maintenance therapy stage for bipolar I disorder, it is common to lower the dosage of lithium to prevent side effects while still maintaining stability. Lowering the dosage helps to find the lowest effective dose that can still manage symptoms effectively with minimal side effects.

2. A client is experiencing panic attacks. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client manage anxiety?

• A. Encourage the client to avoid situations that trigger anxiety.
• B. Encourage the client to practice deep breathing exercises.
• C. Encourage the client to take anti-anxiety medication as prescribed.
• D. Encourage the client to engage in regular physical activity.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During panic attacks, deep breathing exercises can help the client manage anxiety effectively by promoting relaxation and reducing the intensity of symptoms. Encouraging the client to practice deep breathing can provide a quick and accessible strategy to cope with the immediate distress of a panic attack. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding triggering situations may reinforce avoidance behavior, anti-anxiety medication is not the first-line intervention during a panic attack, and engaging in physical activity may not be feasible or effective during an acute episode of panic.

3. Why is it important to establish a contract with a client with an eating disorder at the beginning of treatment?

• A. The client and healthcare provider form a partnership that is challenging for the family to disrupt.
• B. A collaborative approach to treatment planning ensures that both physical and emotional needs will be addressed.
• C. Involving the client in decision-making enhances the feeling of control and fosters cooperation.
• D. Permission for refeeding is crucial as it can have adverse effects.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Establishing a contract with a client with an eating disorder at the start of treatment is crucial to involve the client in decision-making processes. By engaging the client in decision-making, it enhances their sense of control over their treatment, which can lead to increased cooperation and better treatment outcomes. This collaborative approach empowers the client and fosters a therapeutic alliance between the client and the healthcare provider, rather than excluding the family or causing disruptions. It focuses on addressing both the physical and emotional needs of the client, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan.

4. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. The nurse understands that buspirone is different from benzodiazepines because it:

• A. Has a high potential for abuse.
• B. Works immediately to relieve anxiety.
• C. Does not cause sedation.
• D. Is used for short-term treatment only.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Buspirone is different from benzodiazepines because it does not cause sedation. Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone has a lower potential for abuse and does not cause the sedative effects commonly seen with benzodiazepines. While benzodiazepines may work immediately to relieve anxiety, buspirone may take longer to show its therapeutic effects. Additionally, buspirone is not limited to short-term treatment only, making it a preferred choice in patients where sedation is a concern or in those with a history of substance abuse.

5. Which chronic medical condition commonly triggers major depressive disorder?

• A. Pain
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hypothyroidism
• D. Crohn's disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Chronic pain is a common trigger for major depressive disorder. The persistent and distressing nature of chronic pain can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and contribute to the development of major depressive disorder in individuals experiencing it.

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