a patient is diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder gad which medication is commonly prescribed as a first line treatment
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. In the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), what medication is frequently prescribed as a first-line treatment?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Buspirone is often chosen as a first-line treatment for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) due to its efficacy and favorable side effect profile. Unlike benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (A), buspirone does not carry the risk of tolerance, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms, making it a preferred choice. While propranolol (C) and hydroxyzine (D) are sometimes used for anxiety, they are not typically considered first-line treatments for GAD.

2. Which of the following interventions should be implemented for a client with anorexia nervosa? Select one that does not apply.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Interventions for a client with anorexia nervosa include monitoring daily caloric intake and weight, establishing a structured eating plan, providing liquid supplements as prescribed, and offering rewards for weight gain. However, encouraging the client to exercise is not appropriate as it may exacerbate the condition by increasing caloric expenditure and reinforcing unhealthy behaviors associated with the disorder. Exercise may further contribute to excessive weight loss and worsen the client's physical health in the context of anorexia nervosa.

3. In a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) undergoing cognitive-behavioral therapy, which outcome indicates that the therapy is effective?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In clients with OCD undergoing cognitive-behavioral therapy, a decrease in the frequency of compulsive behaviors is a key indicator of treatment effectiveness. This reduction signifies progress in managing and controlling the compulsions associated with OCD, which is a primary goal of the therapy. Choices B, C, and D may also be positive outcomes of therapy, but the most critical aspect in treating OCD with cognitive-behavioral therapy is targeting and reducing the frequency of compulsive behaviors.

4. 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?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Projection. The nurse should determine that the client's statement reflects the defense mechanism of projection. Projection involves attributing one's unacceptable feelings or impulses to another person. By projecting these feelings onto someone else, the individual reduces their own anxiety. Displacement involves transferring feelings from one target to another, not attributing them to another person. Rationalization involves making excuses to justify behavior, not attributing feelings to others. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable drives or impulses into more constructive and acceptable activities, not attributing feelings to another person.

5. A client is being assessed by a nurse after being diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In anorexia nervosa, individuals often develop lanugo, fine soft hair, on the face and back. This is a physiological response to the body's attempt to conserve heat due to a lack of subcutaneous fat. It is a common physical finding in clients with anorexia nervosa and can be a sign of severe malnutrition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because weight gain and increased appetite, increased body temperature and tachycardia, and hyperactivity and distractibility are not typically associated with anorexia nervosa. In fact, weight loss, decreased appetite, hypothermia, and bradycardia are more commonly seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa.

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