Nursing Elites

1. A woman was abducted and raped at gunpoint by an unknown assailant. When found, she was confused and disoriented. The nurse makes the following observations about the client. She is talking rapidly in disjointed phrases, is unable to concentrate, and is indecisive when asked to make simple decisions. The client's level of anxiety can be assessed as

• A. moderate
• B. severe
• C. mild
• D. nonexistent

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The client's presentation, including rapid and disjointed speech, inability to concentrate, and indecisiveness, are indicative of severe anxiety. These symptoms suggest a high level of distress and impairment in cognitive functioning, which aligns with severe anxiety rather than mild or moderate levels. The traumatic experience of being abducted and raped at gunpoint would likely contribute to such a severe level of anxiety.

2. A nurse is providing education to the family of a client who has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Encourage the client to avoid caffeine.
• B. Encourage the client to participate in physical activity.
• C. Encourage the client to express their feelings.
• D. Encourage the client to avoid isolation.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should instruct the family to encourage the client to avoid isolation. Social support and interaction are crucial for individuals with major depressive disorder as it can help in improving mood, reducing feelings of loneliness, and providing a sense of belonging and support. Choices A, B, and C are not the most appropriate instructions for a client with major depressive disorder. While avoiding caffeine can be beneficial for some individuals with anxiety or sleep issues, it is not a primary intervention for major depressive disorder. Encouraging physical activity and expressing feelings are important aspects of managing depression, but avoiding isolation is more critical to address first.

3. Which chronic medical condition commonly triggers major depressive disorder?

• A. Pain
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hypothyroidism
• D. Crohn's disease

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Chronic pain is a common trigger for major depressive disorder. The persistent and distressing nature of chronic pain can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and contribute to the development of major depressive disorder in individuals experiencing it.

4. 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.

5. A client is prescribed lorazepam (Ativan) for the management of anxiety. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

• A. I should take this medication at the same time every day.
• B. I can drink alcohol while taking this medication.
• C. I should avoid driving while taking this medication.
• D. I should avoid using this medication during pregnancy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients should avoid alcohol while taking lorazepam (Ativan) due to potential interactions. Alcohol can increase the side effects of lorazepam, such as drowsiness and dizziness, which can be dangerous, especially when combined with activities like driving or operating machinery. Choice A is correct as it promotes medication adherence. Choice C is correct as lorazepam can impair cognitive and motor skills, impacting driving ability. Choice D is correct as lorazepam is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.

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