Nursing Elites

1. A client who is at risk for suicide following their partner’s death is speaking with a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. “I feel very sorry for the loneliness you must be experiencing.”
• B. “Suicide is not the appropriate way to cope with loss.”
• C. “Losing someone close to you must be very upsetting.”
• D. “I know how difficult it is to lose a loved one.”

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a client is at risk for suicide, it is crucial for the nurse to acknowledge the emotional impact of losing a loved one without downplaying or judging their feelings. Statement C demonstrates empathy and understanding without making assumptions or providing unsolicited advice, making it the most appropriate response in this situation. Choice A focuses more on the nurse's feelings rather than the client's, which might not effectively address the client's emotional state. Choice B is judgmental and dismissive, which could further isolate the client. Choice D, although empathetic, shifts the focus to the nurse's experience rather than validating the client's feelings.

2. Which symptom is most commonly associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

• A. Frequent panic attacks
• B. Persistent and excessive worry
• C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• D. Compulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Persistent and excessive worry. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a variety of things, even when there is little or no reason to worry. This worry is difficult to control and can significantly impact daily life. While panic attacks, recurrent intrusive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors can occur in other anxiety disorders, persistent and excessive worry is the hallmark symptom of GAD. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary symptom associated with GAD.

3. A patient is being discharged with a prescription for an antidepressant for their depression. Which instruction is most important?

• A. Take the medication with food to prevent stomach upset.
• B. Refrain from driving until you understand the effects of the medication.
• C. Do not discontinue the medication suddenly.
• D. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most critical instruction is to not discontinue the antidepressant medication suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potentially trigger a relapse of depression. Options A, B, and D are important but not as crucial as ensuring the patient follows the prescribed regimen and consults with a healthcare provider before making any changes to the medication routine.

4. A nurse is planning care for several clients attending community-based mental health programs. Which of the following clients should the nurse visit first?

• A. A client who received a burn on the arm while using a hot iron at home
• B. A client who requests a change of antipsychotic medication due to new adverse effects
• C. A client who reports hearing a voice saying that life is not worth living anymore
• D. A client who tells the nurse about experiencing manifestations of severe anxiety before and during a job interview

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should visit the client who reports hearing a voice saying that life is not worth living anymore first. This statement indicates potential suicidal ideation, which requires immediate intervention to ensure the client's safety. Choices A, B, and D do not present an immediate threat to the client's life. While burns, adverse effects of medication, and severe anxiety are important concerns, they do not pose an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide.

5. Which symptom is most commonly associated with social anxiety disorder?

• A. Fear of speaking in public
• B. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• C. Flashbacks of traumatic events
• D. Persistent low mood

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fear of speaking in public is a hallmark symptom of social anxiety disorder. Individuals with social anxiety disorder often experience intense fear or anxiety about social situations where they may be scrutinized or judged by others, such as speaking in public. This fear can significantly impact their daily functioning and quality of life, making it a key feature in diagnosing social anxiety disorder. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks of traumatic events, and persistent low mood are more commonly associated with other mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression, respectively. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it aligns with the characteristic symptom of social anxiety disorder.

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