Nursing Elites

1. A female client with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been experiencing flashbacks. Which intervention should the nurse implement to help the client?

• A. Encourage the client to talk about the trauma.
• B. Advise the client to avoid triggers that cause flashbacks.
• C. Help the client stay grounded in the present moment.
• D. Refer the client to group therapy for PTSD.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is to help them stay grounded in the present moment. This technique can reduce the intensity of flashbacks and provide a sense of safety. Encouraging the client to talk about the trauma (Choice A) may exacerbate the symptoms and should be done cautiously under professional guidance. Advising the client to avoid triggers (Choice B) is important, but solely relying on avoidance may not address the underlying issues. Referring the client to group therapy (Choice D) can be beneficial, but in the immediate context of managing flashbacks, grounding techniques are more appropriate.

2. A client's medication sheet contains a prescription for sertraline (Zoloft). To ensure safe administration of the medication, a nurse would administer the dose:

• A. On an empty stomach
• B. At the same time each evening
• C. Evenly spaced around the clock
• D. As needed when the client complains of depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'At the same time each evening.' Sertraline should be administered at the same time each evening to maintain steady drug levels and effectiveness. Choice A is incorrect because sertraline can be taken with or without food. Choice C is incorrect as sertraline does not need to be spaced around the clock. Choice D is incorrect as sertraline is a scheduled medication and should not be taken on an as-needed basis for complaints of depression.

3. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing auditory hallucinations. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage the client to focus on reality-based activities.
• B. Tell the client that the voices are not real.
• C. Ask the client to describe the voices he hears.
• D. Encourage the client to interact with others who are not experiencing hallucinations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention for a client with schizophrenia experiencing auditory hallucinations is to encourage the client to focus on reality-based activities. This intervention helps redirect their attention away from hallucinations, promoting engagement with the environment. Choice B is incorrect as telling the client that the voices are not real may invalidate their experiences and worsen the therapeutic relationship. Choice C may increase the client's distress by focusing on the hallucinations. Choice D might not be helpful as interacting with others who are not experiencing hallucinations may not address the client's current needs.

4. A client with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone (BuSpar) by a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should take this medication on an empty stomach.
• B. It may take several weeks before I feel better.
• C. This medication does not cause dependence.
• D. I can drink alcohol while taking this medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement 'I can drink alcohol while taking this medication' (D) indicates a need for further teaching. Clients should avoid alcohol while taking buspirone because it can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness. Choices A, B, and C are correct statements regarding buspirone and do not require further teaching.

5. A nurse determines that the wife of an alcoholic client is benefitting from attending an Al-Anon group when the nurse hears the wife say:

• A. I no longer feel that I deserve the meetings my husband inflicts on me.
• B. My attendance at the meetings has helped me to see that I provoke my husband's violence.
• C. I enjoy attending the meetings because they get me out of the house and away from my husband.
• D. I can tolerate my husband's destructive behaviors now that I know they are common with alcoholics.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A is the correct answer as the statement indicates the wife understands that her husband's behavior is not her fault and is benefitting from the group support. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests self-blame rather than recognizing the husband's responsibility. Choice C is incorrect as the benefit is related to emotional support and understanding, not just getting away from the husband. Choice D is incorrect as tolerating destructive behaviors is not a healthy outcome of attending support groups.

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