Nursing Elites

1. A patient with a diagnosis of panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI. Which side effect should the nurse monitor for when the patient starts this medication?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Increased appetite
• C. Gastrointestinal disturbances
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient with panic disorder is prescribed an SSRI, the nurse should monitor for gastrointestinal disturbances as a common side effect. SSRIs can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort, especially at the beginning of treatment. Increased heart rate (Choice A) is not a common side effect of SSRIs; it is more commonly associated with medications like stimulants. Increased appetite (Choice B) is not a typical side effect of SSRIs, as they are more likely to cause weight loss or appetite suppression. Dry mouth (Choice D) is a side effect seen more commonly with medications that have anticholinergic properties, not typically with SSRIs.

2. When developing a care plan for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which short-term goal is most appropriate?

• A. The patient will experience no episodes of anxiety within the next week.
• B. The patient will learn and practice relaxation techniques.
• C. The patient will avoid all anxiety-provoking situations.
• D. The patient will be medication-free within a month.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B, 'The patient will learn and practice relaxation techniques,' is the most appropriate short-term goal for managing generalized anxiety disorder. Teaching relaxation techniques can help the patient develop coping mechanisms and reduce anxiety levels in the immediate future, making it a realistic and beneficial goal. Options A and C are not feasible in the short term as complete elimination of anxiety episodes or avoidance of all anxiety-provoking situations may not be achievable or practical within a week. Option D is not a suitable short-term goal as it overlooks the potential need for medication in managing generalized anxiety disorder.

3. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I can take this medication on an as-needed basis.
• B. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effect of this medication.
• C. This medication has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
• D. I should take this medication consistently every day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Buspirone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis. It should be taken consistently every day to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Choice B is correct as it accurately reflects that buspirone may take a few weeks to reach its full effect. Choice C is also correct as buspirone indeed has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines. Choice D is correct because taking buspirone consistently every day is the appropriate way to use this medication.

4. A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spends hours washing their hands. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Encouraging the patient to stop washing their hands
• B. Allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times
• C. Ignoring the patient's behavior
• D. Setting strict limits on the time allowed for hand washing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD who spends excessive time washing hands, allowing the patient to wash hands at specified times is the most appropriate nursing intervention. This approach helps establish a structured routine for hand washing, which can assist in managing OCD symptoms without reinforcing the behavior. Encouraging the patient to stop washing hands may lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Ignoring the behavior can perpetuate the cycle of OCD, and setting strict limits on hand washing time may cause distress and may not effectively address the underlying issues associated with OCD.

5. What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
• B. Provide a safe, calm environment.
• C. Administer prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
• D. Teach the patient deep breathing exercises.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack is to provide a safe, calm environment. This action is crucial as it helps reduce the patient's anxiety and creates a sense of security, which can aid in managing the panic attack effectively. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings, administering medication, or teaching deep breathing exercises can be beneficial interventions, but creating a safe and calm environment takes precedence in addressing the immediate needs of the patient during a panic attack.

Similar Questions