a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder ptsd is experiencing flashbacks what is the best initial intervention
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Nursing Elites

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ATI Mental Health Practice A 2023

1. A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the best initial intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best initial intervention for a patient with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is to provide relaxation techniques. This approach helps the patient manage flashbacks by focusing on the present moment, promoting relaxation, and reducing anxiety associated with the traumatic memories. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers or social situations may not address the immediate distress caused by flashbacks, while talking about feelings may not be as effective as providing immediate tools to manage the distressing symptoms.

2. A community mental health nurse is planning care to address the issue of depression among older adult clients in the community. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement as a method of tertiary prevention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Establishing rehabilitation programs to decrease the effects of depression is a method of tertiary prevention.

3. What is an important aspect of patient education regarding buspirone when prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. When educating a patient about buspirone for generalized anxiety disorder, it is crucial to highlight that buspirone may take 2-4 weeks to become effective. Patients need to be aware of this delayed onset of action to manage their expectations and continue the medication as prescribed. This information helps patients understand that they may not experience immediate relief and should not discontinue the medication prematurely. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because buspirone is typically taken regularly, not as-needed, it has a lower risk of addiction compared to other anxiety medications, and it does not need to be taken with food for increased absorption.

4. April, a 10-year-old admitted to inpatient pediatric care, has been becoming increasingly agitated and losing control in the day room. Time-out has proven to be ineffective for April to engage in self-reflection. April’s mother mentions using time-out up to 20 times a day. The nurse acknowledges that:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The scenario describes how April's behavior is not improving with the frequent use of time-out, indicating that it is no longer an effective intervention. When a strategy such as time-out loses its effectiveness due to overuse, it is crucial to explore alternative therapeutic measures to address the underlying issues effectively.

5. In dissociative identity disorder, a patient exhibits different personalities, each with distinct behaviors and memories. The nurse recognizes that this fragmentation of identity serves as a coping mechanism for:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In dissociative identity disorder, the fragmentation of identity serves as a coping mechanism for traumatic experiences. Individuals may develop different identities to help them manage and cope with overwhelming and traumatic events from their past. These distinct personalities often emerge as a way to protect the individual from the emotional pain associated with their traumatic experiences. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because dissociative identity disorder is primarily associated with coping mechanisms related to past traumatic experiences, rather than current stressors, developmental issues, or family dynamics.

Similar Questions

A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching?
When working with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which therapeutic approach is most appropriate?
What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
Which medication is often prescribed for patients with bipolar disorder to help stabilize mood?
During a mental health assessment, a patient states, 'I just don't see the point in anything anymore.' This statement is an indication of which of the following?

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