a nurse is providing care for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal which intervention should be included in the plan of care
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam 2019

1. A client is experiencing alcohol withdrawal. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering benzodiazepines as prescribed is a crucial intervention in managing alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and seizures commonly seen in alcohol withdrawal. Monitoring vital signs is important to assess the client's physiological stability, but addressing the withdrawal symptoms with benzodiazepines is a priority to prevent severe complications. Providing a high-protein diet and encouraging fluid intake are important for overall health but do not directly manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

2. What is the most significant consequence of the excessive use of defense mechanisms?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most significant consequence of the excessive use of defense mechanisms is the limitation of problem-solving skills. When individuals rely excessively on defense mechanisms to cope with stress or anxiety, they may avoid addressing underlying issues or seeking healthier coping strategies. This can lead to maladaptive behaviors, hindering their ability to effectively deal with reality, maintain healthy relationships, or perform well in various aspects of life. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the suppression of problem-solving skills, intense experience of emotions, and enhancement of learning and growth are not the primary consequences of excessive use of defense mechanisms.

3. A patient with agoraphobia is unable to leave home. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: For a patient with agoraphobia, the priority intervention should be gradual exposure to feared situations. This approach helps the patient confront and gradually overcome their fear of leaving home, a common challenge in agoraphobia. By exposing the patient to feared situations in a step-by-step manner, they can learn to manage their anxiety and increase their confidence in leaving home. Teaching relaxation techniques (Choice A) can be beneficial but may not address the core issue of avoidance behavior. Encouraging the patient to attend social gatherings (Choice C) can be overwhelming and counterproductive at the initial stage of treatment. Providing education about the disorder (Choice D) is important but should come after addressing the immediate need for exposure therapy.

4. During an assessment, a client is demonstrating symptoms of moderate anxiety. Which of the following symptoms would be indicative of moderate anxiety?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Palpitations are a common physical symptom seen in clients experiencing moderate anxiety. Fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting can also indicate heightened stress levels. It's important for healthcare providers to recognize these signs and provide appropriate support. While anxiety can manifest in various ways, other indicators of moderate anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance. It's crucial for healthcare providers to assess these symptoms to provide effective care and interventions. Laughing inappropriately and nail biting are more commonly associated with nervousness or social discomfort, while fidgeting may signal mild anxiety.

5. A patient with major depressive disorder is being treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The nurse should monitor the patient for which common side effect?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Memory loss, especially short-term memory loss, is a common side effect associated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). During ECT treatment, the electrical currents passed through the brain can disrupt short-term memory formation. This side effect is usually temporary, but patients should be closely monitored for any changes in memory function during and after the treatment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not commonly associated with ECT. Hypertension, weight gain, and hyperglycemia are not typically observed as side effects of ECT.

Similar Questions

A client diagnosed with major depressive disorder is receiving cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which outcome indicates that the therapy is effective?
A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching? Select one that does not apply.
A patient with major depressive disorder is started on a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Which common side effect should the nurse educate the patient about?
A teenage boy is attracted to a female teacher. Without objective evidence, a school nurse overhears the boy state, 'I know she wants me.' This statement reflects which defense mechanism?
A client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder has been admitted to the psychiatric unit after a suicide attempt. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

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