Nursing Elites

1. A client is prescribed diazepam (Valium) for anxiety. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I can drink alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• C. I should take this medication only when I feel anxious.
• D. I can stop taking this medication when I feel better.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because clients should avoid alcohol while taking diazepam (Valium) due to potential interactions. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of diazepam, leading to excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression. Choice B is correct as it reflects the need to avoid alcohol. Choice C is incorrect because diazepam is usually taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping diazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should be done gradually under medical supervision.

2. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which intervention should the nurse implement to support the client's recovery?

• A. Encourage the client to engage in physical activity.
• B. Encourage the client to maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• C. Encourage the client to set realistic goals for daily activities.
• D. Encourage the client to express feelings of sadness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a depressive episode in bipolar disorder, encouraging the client to set realistic goals for daily activities can be beneficial. Setting achievable goals can provide structure, a sense of accomplishment, and help in breaking tasks into manageable steps, which can support the client's recovery process. Options A and B, while important in managing bipolar disorder, may not directly address the client's depressive symptoms during this episode. Option D, encouraging the client to express feelings of sadness, is not as effective as setting achievable goals in providing structure and a sense of accomplishment during a depressive episode.

3. What information should the nurse include in patient education for a patient prescribed valproic acid for bipolar disorder?

• A. Avoid consuming dairy products while taking this medication.
• B. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor medication levels.
• C. Take the medication on an empty stomach for better absorption.
• D. It is safe to stop the medication abruptly if side effects occur.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Regular blood tests are crucial when taking valproic acid to monitor the medication levels in the bloodstream. This monitoring helps ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dosage for effective treatment and to prevent adverse effects associated with either subtherapeutic or toxic levels of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because there is no specific interaction between valproic acid and dairy products. Choice C is incorrect as valproic acid can generally be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping valproic acid can lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsening of the condition.

4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Which of the following findings should the professional expect? Select one that does not apply.

• A. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• B. Compulsive behaviors
• C. Delusions of grandeur
• D. Avoidance of situations that trigger obsessions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions), compulsive behaviors, and avoidance of situations that trigger obsessions. Delusions of grandeur, which involve inflated beliefs about one's own importance or abilities, are not typically associated with OCD. Therefore, the presence of delusions of grandeur would not be an expected finding in a client with OCD. Choices A, B, and D are all typical features of OCD and would be expected findings during the assessment of a client with this disorder.

5. Tammy, a 28-year-old with major depressive disorder and bulimia nervosa, is ready for discharge from the county hospital after 2 weeks of inpatient therapy. Tammy is taking citalopram (Celexa) and reports that it has made her feel more hopeful. With a secondary diagnosis of bulimia nervosa, what is an alternative antidepressant to consider?

• A. Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• B. Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
• C. Amitriptyline
• D. Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fluoxetine (Prozac) is a suitable alternative antidepressant for Tammy due to its approval for the treatment of bulimia nervosa. It belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of antidepressants, similar to citalopram, which Tammy is already taking. Fluoxetine has shown efficacy in treating bulimia nervosa and can be a beneficial choice for individuals with this condition.

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