Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a negative symptom of schizophrenia?

• A. Hallucinations
• B. Delusions
• C. Alogia
• D. Paranoia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Alogia, also known as poverty of speech, is a negative symptom of schizophrenia. It refers to a reduction in the amount of speech or the feeling that one has nothing to say. Hallucinations and delusions are positive symptoms, characterized by the presence of abnormal experiences and beliefs. Paranoia is a symptom involving intense anxious or fearful feelings, which is not classified as a negative symptom of schizophrenia.

2. Which of the following is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?

• A. Memory loss
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Memory loss, particularly short-term memory loss, is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). ECT can affect memory due to its impact on brain function during and after treatment. While the memory issues are often temporary and tend to improve over time, they are important considerations when discussing the risks and benefits of ECT with patients. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not common side effects of ECT.

3. Which statement indicates an understanding of the DSM-5 diagnosis?

• A. The DSM-5 includes information on cultural considerations.
• B. The DSM-5 is a tool for healthcare providers.
• C. The DSM-5 is not used for legal purposes.
• D. The DSM-5 includes information on the prevalence of mental disorders.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A is the correct answer as the DSM-5 not only provides specific criteria for diagnosing mental disorders but also includes information on cultural considerations. Understanding cultural factors is crucial in making accurate diagnoses and providing appropriate care, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the DSM-5 for healthcare providers. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while the DSM-5 is indeed a tool for healthcare providers, it is also used in legal settings, and it focuses on diagnostic criteria and not just the prevalence of mental disorders.

4. Which of the following are therapeutic communication techniques that a healthcare professional can use when interacting with clients?

• A. Using silence
• B. Discouraging the client from washing their hands
• C. Giving advice
• D. Providing reassurance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Therapeutic communication techniques aim to establish a trusting and supportive relationship between the healthcare professional and the client. Using silence is a valid therapeutic technique that allows the client to reflect and express their thoughts. On the other hand, discouraging the client from washing their hands goes against good hygiene practices and is not therapeutic. Giving advice and providing reassurance can be non-therapeutic if not used appropriately, as they may undermine the client's autonomy and problem-solving abilities.

5. When assessing a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which symptom would a nurse most likely observe?

• A. Flashbacks
• B. Excessive worry
• C. Hallucinations
• D. Compulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Excessive worry is a primary characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Patients with GAD experience persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of their lives, often anticipating disaster or catastrophic outcomes. This worry is difficult to control and can be accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, and difficulty concentrating. Flashbacks are more commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hallucinations are more typical of psychotic disorders, and compulsive behaviors are characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Therefore, when assessing a patient with GAD, a nurse would most likely observe excessive worry.

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