which characteristic is most commonly associated with dissociative identity disorder

ATI LPN

ATI Mental Health Practice A

1. Which characteristic is most commonly associated with dissociative identity disorder?

A. Frequent nightmares
B. Auditory hallucinations
C. Multiple distinct personalities
D. Chronic fatigue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dissociative identity disorder, commonly known as multiple personality disorder, is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states within an individual. These distinct personalities may have their own way of perceiving and interacting with the world, often leading to gaps in memory and a sense of detachment. Frequent nightmares, auditory hallucinations, and chronic fatigue are not primary characteristics of dissociative identity disorder. Option C, multiple distinct personalities, is the hallmark feature of this disorder, making it the correct choice.

2. A patient is receiving education about dietary restrictions while taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Which food should the patient avoid?

A. Aged cheese
B. Fresh vegetables
C. Grilled chicken
D. Fruit juices

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients taking MAOIs should avoid aged cheese as it contains high levels of tyramine, which can lead to a hypertensive crisis. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors can inhibit the breakdown of tyramine, leading to an excess accumulation in the body and potentially dangerous increases in blood pressure.

3. Which patient statement suggests the presence of dissociative amnesia?

A. I keep forgetting where I put my keys.
B. I don’t remember the accident that brought me here or the past two days.
C. Sometimes I feel like I’m watching myself from outside my body.
D. I often lose track of time when I’m reading.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the statement reflects a significant gap in memory related to a traumatic event, which is characteristic of dissociative amnesia. Choice A is more indicative of normal forgetfulness and absentmindedness. Choice C suggests depersonalization or dissociative identity disorder rather than dissociative amnesia. Choice D describes a common experience related to concentration while reading, not memory loss as seen in dissociative amnesia.

4. Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

A. Fear of social situations
B. Excessive worrying about various aspects of life
C. Hallucinations
D. Impulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Excessive worrying about various aspects of life is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). In GAD, individuals experience excessive and uncontrollable worry about a wide range of everyday problems. This persistent worrying can lead to physical and emotional symptoms, impacting their daily functioning and quality of life. Fear of social situations, hallucinations, and impulsive behaviors are not typically associated with GAD.

5. When assessing a patient with major depressive disorder, which of the following is a common cognitive symptom?

A. Hallucinations
B. Delusions
C. Lack of appetite
D. Negative self-talk

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Negative self-talk is a common cognitive symptom of major depressive disorder. It involves a pattern of negative thoughts and beliefs about oneself, which can significantly impact a patient's self-esteem and overall outlook on life. Hallucinations and delusions are more commonly associated with other mental health conditions like schizophrenia, while lack of appetite is typically considered a physical symptom of depression rather than a cognitive one.