Nursing Elites

1. A patient diagnosed with bipolar disorder is experiencing a depressive episode. Which medication is commonly prescribed for this phase of the disorder?

• A. Valproic acid
• B. Risperidone
• C. Fluoxetine
• D. Lithium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Fluoxetine. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly prescribed to manage the depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. SSRIs are effective in treating the depressive phase of bipolar disorder as they help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Choice A, Valproic acid, is used more commonly in the treatment of acute mania or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder. Choice B, Risperidone, is an atypical antipsychotic often used to manage psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder. Choice D, Lithium, is primarily used for the maintenance treatment of bipolar disorder to prevent future manic and depressive episodes.

2. A client has a history of excessive drinking, which has led to multiple arrests for driving under the influence (DUI). The client states, 'I work hard to provide for my family. I don't see why I can't drink to relax.' The nurse recognizes the use of which defense mechanism?

• A. Projection
• B. Rationalization
• C. Regression
• D. Sublimation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should recognize that the client is using rationalization, a common defense mechanism. Rationalization involves creating logical reasons to justify unacceptable feelings or behaviors. In this scenario, the client is justifying excessive drinking by linking it to hard work and the need for relaxation, masking the true underlying issue of alcohol abuse. Projection involves attributing one's thoughts or feelings to others, regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development, and sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities, none of which are demonstrated in the client's statement.

3. During the assessment of an adolescent who collapsed during Olympic figure skating training and was diagnosed with severe malnutrition due to anorexia nervosa, which client statement supports the use of a family-based approach?

• A. I eat just as much as everyone else on the team
• B. I'm tired of fighting with my parents about eating
• C. I just didn't drink enough water during practice
• D. I have to practice until my skating routine is perfect

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The statement 'I'm tired of fighting with my parents about eating' indicates a struggle related to food and parental conflicts, suggesting family dynamics play a role in the client's eating disorder. In cases of anorexia nervosa in adolescents, involving the family in the treatment process through a family-based approach has shown to be effective. This approach recognizes the influence of family interactions on the development and maintenance of eating disorders, aiming to improve communication, support, and understanding within the family unit to facilitate recovery.

4. Which of the following therapies is considered the most effective for treating phobias?

• A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• B. Psychoanalysis
• C. Medication management
• D. Group therapy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as the most effective treatment for phobias. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with their phobias, leading to long-lasting improvement and symptom reduction. Unlike psychoanalysis, which focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts, CBT provides practical strategies to address phobias directly. Medication management may be used in conjunction with therapy but is not typically considered a standalone treatment for phobias. Group therapy can be beneficial for some individuals, but CBT is specifically tailored to target and alleviate phobia symptoms effectively.

5. Which medication would the nurse least likely use to provide immediate intervention for an angry psychotic client?

• A. Lithium
• B. Alprazolam
• C. Diphenhydramine
• D. Haloperidol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety disorders. While it may help calm an individual, it is not typically the first-line choice for managing acute agitation in a psychotic client. Haloperidol, on the other hand, is a typical antipsychotic medication often used for immediate intervention in psychiatric emergencies involving aggression or psychosis.

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