Nursing Elites

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

• A. Auditory hallucinations
• B. Delusions of grandeur
• C. A flat affect
• D. Disorganized speech

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. An unemployed college graduate is experiencing severe anxiety over not finding a teaching position and has difficulty with independent problem-solving. During a routine physical examination, the graduate confides in the clinic nurse. Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage the graduate to use alternative coping mechanisms such as relaxation exercises.
• B. Complete the problem-solving process for the graduate.
• C. Work through the problem-solving process with the graduate.
• D. Encourage the graduate to keep a journal.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In situations where a client is experiencing severe anxiety and struggles with independent problem-solving, it is essential for the nurse to work through the problem-solving process together with the client. By doing so, the nurse can provide support and guidance to help the client navigate through their challenges effectively. Choice A is not the most appropriate as just encouraging alternative coping mechanisms may not address the root of the problem. Choice B of completing the problem-solving process for the graduate does not promote independence or skill development. Choice D of encouraging the graduate to keep a journal may be helpful but does not directly address the need for assistance in problem-solving during heightened anxiety.

3. A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine. Which potential side effect requires regular monitoring?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Hypertension
• C. Agranulocytosis
• D. Hyperthyroidism

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient with schizophrenia is prescribed clozapine, regular monitoring for agranulocytosis is essential. Agranulocytosis is a severe reduction in white blood cells that can be life-threatening. Monitoring white blood cell counts is crucial to detect this side effect early and prevent serious complications. Weight loss (Choice A) is not a common side effect of clozapine. Hypertension (Choice B) and hyperthyroidism (Choice D) are also not typically associated with clozapine use, making them incorrect choices for regular monitoring.

4. When attempting to determine a teenager's mental health resilience, what assessment question should the nurse ask that is not applicable?

• A. How did you cope when your father deployed with the Army for a year in Iraq?
• B. Who did you go to for advice while your father was away for a year in Iraq?
• C. How do you feel about talking to a mental health counselor?
• D. Why would you think that is a better option than meeting with me?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Assessing a teenager's mental health resilience involves exploring coping mechanisms, support systems, and attitudes towards seeking help. Option D is not relevant to assessing resilience but rather focuses on the comparison between seeking advice from a counselor versus the nurse, which doesn't directly gauge the teenager's resilience.

5. A healthcare professional is assessing a client's use of defense mechanisms. Which statement would indicate to the healthcare professional that the client is using the defense mechanism of projection?

• A. The client accuses others of being angry when it is the client who is angry.
• B. The client refuses to acknowledge a problem despite evidence to the contrary.
• C. The client attributes his own feelings of hostility to others.
• D. The client avoids dealing with painful feelings by focusing on something else.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Projection is a defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable feelings, thoughts, or impulses onto others. In this case, the client is projecting his own feelings of hostility onto others by assuming they possess these feelings instead.

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