Nursing Elites

1. Which behavior is consistent with therapeutic communication?

• A. Offering your opinion when asked to convey support.
• B. Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words.
• C. Interrupting periods of silence before they become awkward for the patient.
• D. Telling the patient they did well when you approve of their statements or actions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Summarizing the essence of the patient's comments in your own words is a key aspect of therapeutic communication as it demonstrates active listening and understanding. It shows the patient that their words have been heard and understood, fostering a sense of validation and empathy. Offering opinions, interrupting silence, or giving approval may not always align with the principles of therapeutic communication, which focus on patient-centered interactions and empathetic responses.

2. A client prescribed lithium for bipolar disorder is receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should avoid eating aged cheeses and processed meats.
• B. I need to maintain a consistent sodium intake.
• C. I should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• D. I can take over-the-counter medications without consulting my healthcare provider.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Taking over-the-counter medications without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended for clients on lithium therapy as there can be potential interactions between lithium and certain medications. It is crucial for clients on lithium to always consult their healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their treatment. Choices A, B, and C are all correct statements that align with managing lithium therapy, emphasizing the importance of dietary restrictions and adequate hydration, as well as monitoring sodium intake to maintain the therapeutic effects of lithium.

3. Upon admission, a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder needs the nurse to implement which of the following interventions first?

• A. Administer an antidepressant medication.
• B. Establish a trusting relationship with the client.
• C. Develop a plan of care with the client.
• D. Teach the client about the importance of medication compliance.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The initial intervention the nurse should prioritize is to establish a trusting relationship with the client. Building trust is fundamental in fostering effective therapeutic communication and providing quality care. This foundational step lays the groundwork for further assessment, collaboration on care plans, and promoting treatment adherence. Administering medication or discussing compliance should come after the establishment of trust to ensure the client feels supported and understood.

4. When assessing a client experiencing severe anxiety, which symptom should the nurse expect to observe?

• A. Restlessness
• B. Rapid heart rate
• C. Sweating
• D. Dry mouth

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is experiencing severe anxiety, a rapid heart rate is a common physiological response. This increased heart rate is due to the body's fight-or-flight response, where adrenaline is released, causing the heart to beat faster. Monitoring the client's heart rate is crucial in assessing and managing their anxiety. Restlessness (choice A) can also be present in anxiety but is more of a behavioral manifestation rather than a physiological symptom. Sweating (choice C) can occur in anxiety, but it is not as specific or consistent as a rapid heart rate. Dry mouth (choice D) is associated with anxiety but is not as immediate or directly linked to the body's physiological response to stress as a rapid heart rate.

5. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Which symptom should the healthcare professional expect to observe?

• A. Increased energy
• B. Weight gain
• C. Increased appetite
• D. Restlessness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Weight gain is a common symptom of major depressive disorder. Individuals with major depressive disorder often experience changes in appetite, leading to weight gain or loss. This symptom is related to disruptions in the individual's eating habits and metabolism, which are commonly associated with depression. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because increased energy, increased appetite, and restlessness are not typical symptoms of major depressive disorder. In fact, individuals with depression often experience fatigue, changes in appetite, and feelings of restlessness or agitation.

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