Nursing Elites

1. During a mental status examination, which of the following components should be included in the assessment? Select one that doesn't apply.

• A. Appearance and behavior
• B. Thought processes
• C. Mood and affect
• D. The greater the cultural distance from the mainstream of society, the greater the likelihood that the illness will be treated with sensitivity and compassion.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a mental status examination, key components to be assessed include the client's appearance and behavior, thought processes, mood and affect, and cognitive function. These components help in evaluating the client's mental health status. The statement about cultural distance and illness treatment is not a part of a mental status examination and is not relevant to the assessment of mental health. Choices A, B, and C are essential components of a mental status examination and contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's mental well-being.

2. A client has been prescribed bupropion (Wellbutrin) for depression. Which instruction should the nurse provide during discharge?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• B. Stop taking the medication if you feel better.
• C. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. Double the dose if you miss a dose.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide is to advise the client to avoid drinking alcohol while taking bupropion (Wellbutrin) due to the increased risk of side effects like seizures. Alcohol can interact with bupropion and worsen its side effects, making it important to abstain from alcohol consumption during the treatment. Option A is incorrect because taking the medication with a full glass of water is a general instruction for medications and not specific to bupropion. Option B is incorrect as abruptly stopping bupropion can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should only be done under medical supervision. Option D is incorrect as doubling the dose of bupropion is dangerous and should not be done, even if a dose is missed.

3. A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder is prescribed an SSRI. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for in the initial weeks of treatment?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Increased risk of suicide
• C. Hypertension
• D. Photosensitivity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed an SSRI for major depressive disorder, the nurse should closely monitor for an increased risk of suicide, especially in younger patients, during the initial weeks of treatment. SSRIs may initially increase energy levels before improving mood, which can lead to a higher risk of suicide in some individuals. Weight loss is not a common side effect of SSRIs and may actually be a concern for some patients with major depressive disorder who experience appetite changes. Hypertension is not typically associated with SSRIs, and photosensitivity is not a common side effect of this class of medications.

4. What should the nurse include in patient education for a patient starting on bupropion for major depressive disorder?

• A. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. Take the medication in the morning to prevent insomnia.
• C. It may cause significant weight gain.
• D. It is used as a first-line treatment for anxiety.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients prescribed bupropion should be educated to avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication to reduce the risk of seizures. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, and alcohol can further increase this risk. It is important for patients to understand the potential consequences of combining bupropion with alcohol to ensure their safety and treatment effectiveness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Taking bupropion in the morning does not prevent insomnia; it is not associated with significant weight gain; and it is not a first-line treatment for anxiety.

5. 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.

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