a nurse is assessing a client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing a depressive episode which of the following findings should the nurse expect s

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice B

1. A healthcare professional is assessing a client with bipolar disorder who is experiencing a depressive episode. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect? Select one that does not apply.

A. High energy
B. Feelings of hopelessness
C. Insomnia or hypersomnia
D. Decreased appetite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During a depressive episode in bipolar disorder, clients typically exhibit low energy levels, feelings of hopelessness, insomnia or hypersomnia, and decreased appetite. High energy levels are more commonly seen in manic episodes of bipolar disorder.

2. A client prescribed sertraline for depression is receiving discharge instructions. Which statement by the client indicates an accurate understanding of the medication?

A. I should take this medication at bedtime to avoid nausea.
B. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
C. I should take this medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
D. It may take several weeks for this medication to be effective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because sertraline, used for depression, typically takes several weeks to become effective. It is important for clients to understand this delayed onset of action to manage their expectations and continue taking the medication as prescribed despite not seeing immediate results.

3. Kyle, a patient with schizophrenia, began taking the first-generation antipsychotic haloperidol (Haldol) last week. One day you find him sitting very stiffly and not moving. He is diaphoretic, and when you ask if he is okay, he seems unable to respond verbally. His vital signs are: BP 170/100, P 110, T 104.2°F. What is the priority nursing intervention? Select one that does not apply.

A. Hold his medication and contact his prescriber.
B. Wipe him with a washcloth wet with cold water or alcohol.
C. Administer a medication such as benztropine IM to correct this dystonic reaction.
D. Reassure him that although there is no treatment for his tardive dyskinesia, it will pass.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The patient's symptoms, including stiffness, diaphoresis, inability to respond verbally, and vital sign abnormalities, are indicative of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect of antipsychotic medications. Administering a medication such as benztropine intramuscularly is the priority to address the dystonic reaction associated with NMS. This intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. Holding the medication and contacting the prescriber may be necessary but addressing the acute symptoms takes precedence. Wiping the patient with a cold washcloth or alcohol would not address the underlying medical emergency. Reassuring the patient about tardive dyskinesia is irrelevant and not the immediate concern in this scenario.

4. 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.

5. Which activity is most appropriate for a child with ADHD?

A. Reading an adventure novel
B. Monopoly
C. Checkers
D. Tennis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Engaging in physical activities like tennis is beneficial for children with ADHD as it allows them to release excess energy and enhance concentration. Exercise can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD.