Nursing Elites

1. A homeless person who is in the manic phase of bipolar disorder is admitted to the mental health unit. Which laboratory finding obtained on admission is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?

• A. Decreased thyroid stimulating hormone level
• B. Elevated liver function profile
• C. Increased white blood cell count
• D. Decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin levels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased thyroid stimulating hormone level. Hyperthyroidism causes an increased level of serum thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which inhibit the release of TSH. In this case, a decreased TSH level can indicate hyperthyroidism, which can present with manic behavior. Elevated liver function profile (B) is not directly related to the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Increased white blood cell count (C) typically indicates an infection or inflammation, not directly related to the manic phase. Decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin levels (D) may suggest anemia but are not as crucial in the context of a manic phase of bipolar disorder.

2. A client with major depressive disorder is being treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which client statement indicates that CBT is having a positive effect?

• A. "I understand now that my negative thoughts are not always true."
• B. "I still feel down, but I am able to go to work."
• C. "I have stopped taking my antidepressant medication."
• D. "I avoid situations that make me feel anxious."

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Recognizing and challenging negative thoughts is a fundamental aspect of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In this statement, the client demonstrates insight into the fact that their negative thoughts may not always be accurate, showing progress in reframing their thoughts. Choice B indicates some improvement in functioning but does not directly relate to the core principles of CBT. Choice C is concerning as abruptly stopping antidepressant medication can be detrimental to the client's well-being. Choice D reflects avoidance behavior, which is typically a target for intervention in CBT rather than a sign of positive progress.

3. A client sought counseling after trying to rescue a neighbor involved in a house fire. Despite the client's efforts, the neighbor died. Which action does the nurse engage in with the client during the working phase of the nurse-client relationship?

• A. Exploring the client's ability to function
• B. Exploring the client's potential for self-harm
• C. Inquiring about the client's perception of appraisal of the neighbor's death
• D. Inquiring about and examining the client's feelings that may block adaptive coping

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the working phase of the nurse-client relationship, it is crucial for the nurse to inquire about and examine the client's feelings that may hinder adaptive coping. This helps the client process the traumatic event, explore their emotional responses, and identify any barriers to moving forward effectively. Exploring the client's ability to function (Choice A) may be more relevant in the assessment phase, while exploring the client's potential for self-harm (Choice B) is important but may not be the primary focus at this stage. Inquiring about the client's perception of the neighbor's death (Choice C) is valuable, but addressing feelings blocking adaptive coping is essential for therapeutic progress.

4. A client who has been admitted to the psychiatric unit tells the nurse, 'My problems are so bad that no one can help me.' Which response is best for the nurse to make?

• A. How can I help?
• B. Things probably aren't as bad as they seem right now.
• C. Let's talk about what is right with your life.
• D. I hear how miserable you are, but things will get better soon.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Offering self shows empathy and caring (A) and is the best choice provided. (B) dismisses the client's feelings and reality. (C) avoids addressing the client's concerns directly and may come across as invalidating. Although (D) starts with acknowledging the client's feelings, the second part about things getting better soon can be perceived as offering false reassurance, which is not recommended in therapeutic communication.

5. A female client with obsessive compulsive personality disorder is admitted to the hospital for a cardiac catheterization. The afternoon before the procedure, the client begins to keep detailed notes of the nursing care she is receiving and reports her findings to the RN at bedtime. What action should the nurse implement?

• A. Explain to the client that her behavior invades the rights of the nursing staff.
• B. Ask the client to explain why she is keeping a detailed record of her nursing care.
• C. Teach the client strategies to control her obsessive compulsive behavior.
• D. Encourage the client to express her feelings regarding the upcoming procedure.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Encouraging the client to express her feelings can help address underlying anxieties and may reduce the need for obsessive behaviors. Choice A is incorrect because it may come across as confrontational and could escalate the situation. Choice B is not the best initial action as it focuses on the behavior rather than the client's emotions. Choice C is premature without first addressing the client's emotional needs.

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