a nurse is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia which of the following findings should the nurse expect
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice B

1. A healthcare professional is assessing a client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Delusions of grandeur. Clients with paranoid schizophrenia often experience delusions of grandeur or persecution, auditory hallucinations, and a flat affect. However, the most characteristic finding for paranoid schizophrenia is the presence of delusions, which are fixed false beliefs that are not based in reality. Delusions of grandeur, where individuals believe they are exceptionally powerful or important, are commonly seen in paranoid schizophrenia. Choice A, auditory hallucinations, are more commonly associated with other types of schizophrenia such as paranoid or disorganized schizophrenia. Choice C, a flat affect, is a symptom that can be seen across various types of schizophrenia. Choice D, disorganized speech, is more indicative of disorganized schizophrenia.

2. In the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), what medication is frequently prescribed as a first-line treatment?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Buspirone is often chosen as a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) due to its efficacy and favorable side effect profile. Unlike benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (A), buspirone does not carry the risk of tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms, making it a preferred choice. While propranolol (C) and hydroxyzine (D) are sometimes used for anxiety, they are not typically considered first-line treatments for GAD.

3. A patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed propranolol. The nurse understands that this medication is used primarily to:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Reduce anxiety symptoms. Propranolol, a beta-blocker, is primarily used to reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling, in patients with social anxiety disorder. It does not directly affect mood, energy levels, or social interactions. Choice B is incorrect because propranolol does not target mood improvement. Choice C is incorrect because propranolol does not aim to increase energy levels. Choice D is incorrect because propranolol does not enhance social interactions; its primary role is in reducing physical symptoms of anxiety.

4. In what significant way should the therapeutic environment differ for a client who has ingested LSD from that of a client who has ingested PCP?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When managing a client who has ingested PCP, it is crucial to provide one-on-one intensive supervision to ensure their safety and prevent any harm to themselves or others. This level of supervision is necessary due to the unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects of PCP. On the other hand, for a client who has ingested LSD, it is recommended to maintain a calm environment with limited interaction and minimal verbal stimulation. This approach aims to prevent exacerbating any adverse effects of LSD, such as anxiety or paranoia, by reducing external stimuli. Therefore, the correct approach is to provide one-on-one intensive supervision for PCP ingestion and limit interaction and verbal stimulation for LSD ingestion.

5. A teenage boy is attracted to a female teacher. Without objective evidence, a school nurse overhears the boy state, 'I know she wants me.' This statement reflects which defense mechanism?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Projection. The nurse should determine that the client's statement reflects the defense mechanism of projection. Projection refers to the attribution of one's unacceptable feelings or impulses to another person. In this case, the boy is projecting his own desires onto the female teacher, believing that she wants him. By externalizing his feelings, the boy reduces his anxiety and discomfort about his own attraction. Displacement involves transferring emotions from one target to another, not attributing one's own feelings to others. Rationalization involves creating logical explanations for unacceptable behaviors, not projecting feelings onto others. Sublimation is the channeling of unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable actions, which is not demonstrated in this scenario.

Similar Questions

Which characteristic identified during an assessment serves to support a diagnosis of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder? Select one that doesn't apply.
A client diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is being assessed by a healthcare professional. Which symptom would the healthcare professional expect the client to exhibit?
Which of the following statements should a healthcare professional recognize as true about defense mechanisms? Select the one that doesn't apply.
Which of the following is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
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:

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