Nursing Elites

1. A client is discussing free associations as a therapeutic tool with a nurse. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of this technique?

• A. “I will write down my dreams as soon as I wake up.”
• B. “I might begin to associate my therapist with important people in my life.”
• C. “I can learn to express myself in a nonaggressive manner.”
• D. “I should say the first thing that comes to my mind.”

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Free association is a psychoanalytic technique where the client is encouraged to say the first thing that comes to their mind without censoring or filtering. This technique helps uncover unconscious thoughts and emotions. Choice D, “I should say the first thing that comes to my mind,” indicates an understanding of free association as it aligns with the principle of allowing thoughts to flow freely without inhibition. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect an understanding of free association and its purpose, making them incorrect. A, focusing on writing down dreams, does not relate to the immediate expression of thoughts. B, associating the therapist with important people, and C, learning to express oneself nonaggressively, do not capture the essence of free association as a technique for exploring unconscious processes.

2. In treating PTSD, which type of therapy is most commonly recommended?

• A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• B. Psychoanalytic therapy
• C. Humanistic therapy
• D. Gestalt therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most commonly recommended therapy for PTSD due to its effectiveness in helping patients identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors associated with trauma. This therapy focuses on providing practical coping strategies to manage symptoms and process traumatic experiences. Psychoanalytic therapy, humanistic therapy, and gestalt therapy are less commonly used for PTSD as they may not target the specific symptoms and cognitive distortions associated with this disorder.

3. What is the primary benefit of using exposure therapy for patients with phobias?

• A. To eliminate the phobia completely
• B. To gradually reduce the patient’s fear and anxiety
• C. To teach the patient relaxation techniques
• D. To provide immediate relief from anxiety

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary benefit of using exposure therapy for patients with phobias is to gradually reduce the patient's fear and anxiety. Exposure therapy involves exposing the individual to the feared object or situation in a controlled manner to help them confront their fears and learn that the perceived threat is not as harmful as initially believed. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to a decrease in anxiety and fear responses, helping the individual manage and overcome their phobia. Choice A is incorrect because exposure therapy aims to reduce fear and anxiety, not necessarily eliminate the phobia completely. Choice C is incorrect as although relaxation techniques might be part of the therapy, the primary goal is fear reduction. Choice D is incorrect as exposure therapy typically involves gradual exposure rather than providing immediate relief.

4. During a panic attack, what is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
• B. Provide a quiet, non-stimulating environment.
• C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
• D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During a panic attack, a quiet, non-stimulating environment is the most appropriate nursing intervention. This helps reduce stimuli that may exacerbate the panic attack and allows the individual to focus on calming down. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings may not be effective during an acute panic attack as the focus should be on reducing stimuli. Administering medication should follow healthcare provider's orders and may not be the initial intervention. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in managing anxiety but may not be the priority during the acute phase of a panic attack where reducing stimuli is crucial.

5. What must be considered when preparing the teaching plan for a patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder who is being prescribed lithium therapy?

• A. Caffeine and alcohol can affect lithium levels.
• B. Lithium should be taken with meals to avoid gastrointestinal distress.
• C. Regular blood tests are required to monitor lithium levels.
• D. Lithium can cause weight gain.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When preparing a teaching plan for a patient prescribed lithium therapy for bipolar disorder, it is crucial to emphasize the need for regular blood tests to monitor lithium levels. Monitoring levels is essential to ensure the drug's effectiveness and to manage potential side effects. While factors like caffeine and alcohol intake, taking lithium with meals, and the risk of weight gain may be relevant considerations, the primary focus should be on the necessity of regular blood tests for effective management of lithium therapy. Therefore, option C is the correct choice as it addresses a critical aspect of lithium therapy management.

Similar Questions