Nursing Elites

1. A patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed a beta-blocker. Which symptom is this medication most likely intended to address?

• A. Panic attacks
• B. Tremors and palpitations
• C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• D. Depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Beta-blockers are commonly used to alleviate physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders, such as tremors and palpitations. These medications help manage the autonomic symptoms of anxiety, like increased heart rate and trembling, which are often prominent in social anxiety disorder. Beta-blockers do not primarily target cognitive symptoms like recurrent, intrusive thoughts (choice C), panic attacks (choice A), or depression (choice D) in social anxiety disorder.

2. A patient with major depressive disorder has been prescribed sertraline (Zoloft). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should take my medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
• B. I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• C. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
• D. I might experience some improvement in mood within a few weeks.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C is the correct answer. It is crucial for patients to understand that they should not stop taking their medication once they feel better. Discontinuing antidepressants abruptly can lead to a relapse of depressive symptoms. Patients should continue taking their medication as prescribed by their healthcare provider, even if they start feeling better, to ensure the best outcomes in managing major depressive disorder. Choices A, B, and D are all accurate statements. Taking medication with food can help reduce stomach upset, avoiding alcohol is essential while on sertraline to prevent interactions, and experiencing some improvement in mood within a few weeks is a common expectation when starting an antidepressant like sertraline.

3. A healthcare professional is assessing a patient with major depressive disorder. Which finding is most concerning?

• A. Decreased interest in activities
• B. Feelings of worthlessness
• C. Difficulty sleeping
• D. Changes in appetite

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Among the symptoms listed, difficulty sleeping is particularly concerning in patients with major depressive disorder. Insomnia or other sleep disturbances can exacerbate depressive symptoms and increase the risk of suicidal ideation. Healthcare professionals should address sleep issues promptly to provide appropriate interventions and prevent further complications.

4. A nurse is planning care for several clients attending community-based mental health programs. Which of the following clients should the nurse visit first?

• A. A client who received a burn on the arm while using a hot iron at home
• B. A client who requests a change of antipsychotic medication due to new adverse effects
• C. A client who reports hearing a voice saying that life is not worth living anymore
• D. A client who tells the nurse about experiencing manifestations of severe anxiety before and during a job interview

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nurse should visit the client who reports hearing a voice saying that life is not worth living anymore first. This statement indicates potential suicidal ideation, which requires immediate intervention to ensure the client's safety. Choices A, B, and D do not present an immediate threat to the client's life. While burns, adverse effects of medication, and severe anxiety are important concerns, they do not pose an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide.

5. A healthcare provider is developing a care plan for a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should be included to help the patient manage flashbacks?

• A. Encouraging the patient to confront the trauma directly.
• B. Teaching the patient grounding techniques.
• C. Encouraging the patient to use relaxation techniques.
• D. Helping the patient develop a safety plan.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Teaching grounding techniques is an effective intervention for managing flashbacks in patients with PTSD. Grounding techniques help individuals focus on the present moment, which can reduce the intensity of flashbacks and promote a sense of safety and stability.

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