a patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed valproic acid the nurse should include which information in the patient education
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. What information should the nurse include in patient education for a patient prescribed valproic acid for bipolar disorder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Regular blood tests are crucial when taking valproic acid to monitor the medication levels in the bloodstream. This monitoring helps ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dosage for effective treatment and to prevent adverse effects associated with either subtherapeutic or toxic levels of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because there is no specific interaction between valproic acid and dairy products. Choice C is incorrect as valproic acid can generally be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping valproic acid can lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsening of the condition.

2. When caring for a client experiencing alcohol withdrawal, which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent complications?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Monitoring the client's vital signs closely is crucial during alcohol withdrawal as it helps detect any physiological changes early, such as hypertension, tachycardia, or fever, which can indicate potential complications like delirium tremens. Early identification and prompt intervention can prevent severe outcomes in clients experiencing alcohol withdrawal.

3. In assessing a patient for signs of serotonin syndrome, which of the following symptoms would be consistent with this condition?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serotonin syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms: hypertension, tachycardia, and hyperthermia. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia (choice A) are not typical findings in serotonin syndrome. Hypotension, tachycardia, and hypothermia (choice C) are also not consistent with serotonin syndrome. Hypertension, bradycardia, and hyperthermia (choice D) do not align with the characteristic symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Recognizing the key symptoms of serotonin syndrome is crucial for prompt identification and intervention to prevent serious complications.

4. When patients diagnosed with schizophrenia suffer from anosognosia, they often refuse medication, believing that:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Anosognosia is a lack of insight that affects patients with schizophrenia, leading them to deny or lack awareness of their illness. This lack of awareness often results in patients refusing medication because they genuinely believe they are not ill and do not need treatment. It is crucial for healthcare providers to approach such situations with understanding and empathy, recognizing the impact of anosognosia on treatment adherence.

5. When evaluating a client's progress in psychotherapy, which outcome is appropriate for the client?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In psychotherapy, identifying triggers for anxiety is a crucial step towards understanding and managing one's anxiety symptoms. By recognizing these triggers, clients can work on developing coping strategies and addressing the root cause of their anxiety, leading to improved mental health outcomes. Decreasing avoidance behaviors and expressing feelings of anger are also important aspects of therapy. However, identifying triggers for anxiety is a more specific and foundational goal in addressing anxiety disorders, making it the most appropriate outcome to evaluate a client's progress in psychotherapy.

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