a nurse is assessing a patient with generalized anxiety disorder gad which symptom is the patient most likely to report
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2023 Quizlet

1. A patient is being assessed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which symptom is the patient most likely to report?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) commonly present with excessive worrying about various aspects of life. This persistent and uncontrollable worry is a hallmark symptom of GAD and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Extreme mood swings (choice B), persistent thoughts of self-harm (choice C), and auditory hallucinations (choice D) are more indicative of other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia, respectively. These symptoms are not specific to GAD.

2. A nurse hears a newly licensed nurse discussing a client’s hallucinations in the hallway with another nurse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct action the nurse should take first in this situation is to tell the newly licensed nurse to stop discussing the client's hallucinations with another nurse. Maintaining client confidentiality is a critical aspect of nursing practice. By addressing the behavior immediately, the nurse helps prevent the inappropriate sharing of sensitive information about a client. Choice A is not the first action to take because addressing the behavior directly is more immediate and can prevent further breaches of confidentiality. Choice C is not the priority at this moment as immediate action is required to address the current situation. Choice D, completing an incident report, should come after addressing the immediate issue and ensuring that the inappropriate behavior ceases.

3. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the most appropriate initial nursing intervention?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a flashback, the patient may feel as though the traumatic event is reoccurring. Reassuring the patient that they are safe and the event is not happening presently can help ground them in reality and reduce anxiety. This approach can provide a sense of safety and security, which is crucial in managing flashbacks associated with PTSD. Encouraging the patient to talk briefly about the traumatic event may worsen the distress during a flashback by intensifying the re-experiencing of the trauma. Administering sedative medication should not be the initial intervention, as non-pharmacological approaches are preferred in managing flashbacks. Suggesting the patient write about their feelings in a journal may be beneficial as part of ongoing therapy, but it is not the most appropriate initial intervention during a flashback.

4. Which of the following medications is commonly used to treat panic disorder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is commonly used to treat panic disorder due to its anxiolytic effects. It helps reduce feelings of anxiety and panic by acting on the central nervous system. Lithium is primarily used for bipolar disorder, while Haloperidol and Clozapine are antipsychotic medications used for conditions like schizophrenia. Therefore, the correct choice for treating panic disorder among the options provided is Diazepam.

5. When a patient with schizophrenia is taking haloperidol, what is a priority assessment for the nurse?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Monitoring for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome is crucial for patients taking haloperidol. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but serious side effect that can occur with antipsychotic medications like haloperidol. It presents with symptoms such as high fever, unstable blood pressure, confusion, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.

Similar Questions

When developing a care plan for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which short-term goal is most appropriate?
A client is undergoing systematic desensitization for an extreme fear of elevators. Which of the following actions should be implemented with this form of therapy?
A patient with major depressive disorder has been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
A healthcare provider is assessing a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which symptom would be most indicative of this disorder?
While being treated in an inpatient facility, what is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with anorexia nervosa?

Access More Features

ATI LPN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI LPN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses