Nursing Elites

1. A patient with major depressive disorder is started on venlafaxine. Which class of antidepressant does this medication belong to?

• A. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• B. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• C. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• D. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Venlafaxine is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). SNRIs work by increasing the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps alleviate symptoms of depression. This mechanism of action distinguishes SNRIs from other classes of antidepressants like SSRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs, making venlafaxine an effective choice for patients with major depressive disorder. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choice A, SSRIs, primarily target serotonin reuptake only. Choice B, TCAs, work by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, but they are not as selective as SNRIs. Choice C, MAOIs, inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase, leading to increased levels of various neurotransmitters, including serotonin and norepinephrine, but they are typically used as second- or third-line agents due to dietary restrictions and potential side effects.

2. A patient with schizophrenia is experiencing hallucinations. Which intervention is most appropriate?

• A. Encourage the patient to ignore the voices.
• B. Engage the patient in a reality-based activity.
• C. Provide a quiet environment to reduce stimulation.
• D. Ask the patient to describe the hallucinations in detail.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Engaging the patient in a reality-based activity is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with schizophrenia experiencing hallucinations. This intervention can help distract the patient from the hallucinations and reorient them to the present, promoting a connection with reality and potentially reducing distress associated with the hallucinations. Choice A, encouraging the patient to ignore the voices, may not be effective as it can be challenging for the patient to dismiss the hallucinations. Choice C, providing a quiet environment, is helpful but may not directly address the hallucinations. Choice D, asking the patient to describe the hallucinations in detail, may increase the patient's focus on the hallucinations, potentially worsening distress.

3. A client with schizophrenia is experiencing delusions. Which intervention should the nurse implement to address this symptom?

• A. Encourage the client to ignore the delusions.
• B. Provide reality-based feedback to the client.
• C. Distract the client from the delusions.
• D. Encourage the client to discuss the delusions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client with schizophrenia is experiencing delusions, providing reality-based feedback is considered an effective intervention to address this symptom. This approach helps the client differentiate between what is real and what is not real, assisting them in managing their delusions and promoting their overall well-being. Choice A is incorrect because ignoring the delusions does not help the client in distinguishing reality from delusions. Choice C is incorrect as distraction may only provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue. Choice D is incorrect because encouraging the client to discuss the delusions may reinforce or intensify them rather than help in managing them effectively.

4. A client with bipolar disorder is experiencing a manic episode. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement? Select one that does not apply.

• A. Provide a structured environment
• B. Encourage rest periods
• C. Limit setting on inappropriate behaviors
• D. Allow the client to engage in stimulating activities

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During a manic episode, it is essential to provide a structured environment to help the client maintain stability. Encouraging rest periods is crucial as excessive activity during mania can lead to exhaustion. Setting limits on inappropriate behaviors helps ensure the client's safety and the safety of others. Allowing the client to engage in stimulating activities can exacerbate manic symptoms by further increasing their energy levels and impulsivity. This can lead to a worsening of the manic episode and potentially risky behaviors. Therefore, allowing the client to engage in stimulating activities is not an appropriate intervention during a manic episode.

5. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed venlafaxine. The nurse should educate the patient about which potential side effect?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hypotension
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertension. Venlafaxine, an SNRI, can lead to hypertension as a side effect. This medication can cause an increase in blood pressure, particularly at higher doses. Educating the patient about this potential adverse effect is crucial to enhance awareness and monitoring for any signs or symptoms of elevated blood pressure. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because venlafaxine is more likely to cause hypertension rather than hypotension, bradycardia, or hyperglycemia.

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