Nursing Elites

1. When working with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which therapeutic approach is most appropriate?

• A. Encouraging the patient to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
• B. Using exposure therapy to help the patient confront their fears.
• C. Advising the patient to focus on positive thoughts.
• D. Suggesting that the patient keep busy to distract from traumatic memories.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Exposure therapy is an evidence-based treatment for PTSD that involves gradually exposing the patient to their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment. This approach helps individuals confront and process their fears, reducing the impact of the traumatic event over time. Avoiding discussing the trauma (choice A) may lead to avoidance behaviors and hinder recovery. Focusing on positive thoughts (choice C) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying trauma. Keeping busy to distract from memories (choice D) is a form of avoidance that does not help in processing the traumatic experiences. Therefore, using exposure therapy (choice B) is the most appropriate approach to effectively treat PTSD.

2. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is under the care of a nurse. Which intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Encourage the patient to suppress their compulsive behaviors.
• B. Allow the patient to perform their rituals, then gradually limit the time spent on these rituals.
• C. Discourage the patient from discussing their obsessions.
• D. Avoid setting limits on the patient’s compulsive behaviors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD, it is crucial to allow them to perform their rituals while gradually limiting the time spent on these rituals. This approach helps the patient feel supported while working towards reducing the compulsive behaviors. Choice A is incorrect because suppressing compulsive behaviors can increase anxiety and distress. Choice C is inappropriate as discussing obsessions is part of therapy. Choice D is not recommended as setting limits on compulsive behaviors is essential for treatment.

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. When discharging a patient with schizophrenia on risperidone, what is an important point to include in the discharge teaching?

• A. Avoiding foods high in tyramine is essential.
• B. Getting blood levels checked regularly is necessary.
• C. Being cautious when driving due to possible drowsiness is crucial.
• D. Taking this medication on an as-needed basis is recommended.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Regular monitoring of blood levels is crucial for patients taking risperidone to ensure the medication is at therapeutic levels and to prevent potential toxicity. This monitoring helps healthcare providers adjust the dosage as needed to optimize treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects.

5. What is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient with agoraphobia who reports not having left their house in months?

• A. Social isolation
• B. Ineffective coping
• C. Risk for injury
• D. Impaired social interaction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nursing diagnosis 'Social isolation' is most appropriate for a patient with agoraphobia who has not left their house in months. Agoraphobia often leads to the avoidance of situations or places perceived as unsafe, resulting in social isolation. This diagnosis reflects the patient's limited social interactions and confinement to the home environment, which can impact their overall well-being and mental health. The other options are not as relevant in this scenario: 'Ineffective coping' does not directly address the social withdrawal aspect, 'Risk for injury' is not the primary concern presented, and 'Impaired social interaction' does not capture the extent of isolation described.

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