Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following would be the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing severe anxiety?

• A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
• B. Use a firm, authoritative approach.
• C. Stay with the patient and provide a quiet environment.
• D. Suggest the patient watch TV to distract themselves.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a severe anxiety episode, it's crucial to stay with the patient and create a quiet environment. This approach helps reduce anxiety by providing a sense of safety and support. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings may not be effective during an acute episode of severe anxiety. Using a firm, authoritative approach can escalate the situation and worsen the anxiety. Suggesting distractions like watching TV may not address the root cause of the anxiety or provide the necessary support.

2. A patient with major depressive disorder is started on a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Which common side effect should the nurse educate the patient about?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Dry mouth
• D. Weight loss

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dry mouth. Dry mouth is a common side effect associated with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). TCAs block acetylcholine receptors, leading to anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and urinary retention. It is important for the nurse to educate the patient about this side effect to promote awareness and provide appropriate management strategies, such as maintaining good oral hygiene and staying hydrated. Choice A, hypertension, is not a common side effect of TCAs. Choice B, diarrhea, is not a typical side effect of TCAs; in fact, TCAs are more likely to cause constipation. Choice D, weight loss, is less common with TCAs as they are more likely to cause weight gain.

3. A healthcare professional is planning care for a client with borderline personality disorder. Which of the following interventions should not be included in the plan of care?

• A. Set clear and consistent boundaries
• B. Encourage dependency on the healthcare professional
• C. Avoid discussing the client's feelings
• D. Use a firm, authoritative approach

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a client with borderline personality disorder, it is essential to set clear and consistent boundaries, use a firm, authoritative approach, and provide opportunities for the client to express feelings. Encouraging dependency can reinforce maladaptive behaviors, while avoiding discussing feelings can hinder therapeutic progress in addressing underlying issues. Building a sense of dependency may exacerbate the client's difficulties in developing autonomy and self-reliance, which are crucial for their progress and recovery. Therefore, encouraging dependency is not a recommended intervention in the plan of care for clients with borderline personality disorder.

4. Which of the following are common symptoms of major depressive disorder? Select one that doesn't apply.

• A. Insomnia
• B. Feelings of hopelessness
• C. Increased energy
• D. Difficulty concentrating

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Common symptoms of major depressive disorder include insomnia, feelings of hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, and appetite changes. While individuals with major depressive disorder often experience fatigue and low energy levels, increased energy is not typically associated with this condition. Therefore, 'Increased energy' is the correct choice that doesn't apply to major depressive disorder. Choices A, B, and D are all commonly seen in individuals with major depressive disorder, making them incorrect answers.

5. A client diagnosed with borderline personality disorder tells the nurse, 'You are the only one who understands me. The other nurses don't care about me.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. Why do you feel that way?
• B. The other nurses care about you too.
• C. You shouldn't say things like that.
• D. I think you are overreacting.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct response is to acknowledge the client's feelings and provide support while also emphasizing that all staff members care about the client's well-being. Choice A does not acknowledge the client's emotions and may come across as dismissive. Choice C invalidates the client's feelings and may make the client feel misunderstood. Choice D minimizes the client's emotions, which can lead to a breakdown in therapeutic communication. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate response as it validates the client's feelings while reinforcing the idea that the entire healthcare team is supportive.

Similar Questions