Nursing Elites

1. Which symptom is most commonly associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

• A. Frequent panic attacks
• B. Persistent and excessive worry
• C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
• D. Compulsive behaviors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Persistent and excessive worry. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a variety of things, even when there is little or no reason to worry. This worry is difficult to control and can significantly impact daily life. While panic attacks, recurrent intrusive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors can occur in other anxiety disorders, persistent and excessive worry is the hallmark symptom of GAD. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary symptom associated with GAD.

2. A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates effective understanding of the medication?

• A. I will take this medication only when I feel anxious.
• B. I should start feeling less anxious within a few days.
• C. This medication can be addictive if taken for a long time.
• D. It may take a few weeks for this medication to become effective.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because buspirone may take a few weeks to become effective in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Patients should be aware of this delay and not expect immediate relief from their symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because buspirone is typically taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice B is incorrect because the onset of action for buspirone is gradual, and patients should not expect immediate relief within a few days. Choice C is incorrect because buspirone is not considered addictive, unlike some other medications used for anxiety disorders.

3. A client in an acute mental health facility is being discharged and requires supervision due to a severe mental illness. The client’s partner works all day but is home by late afternoon. Which of the following strategies should the nurse suggest for follow-up care?

• A. Receiving daily care from a home health aide
• B. Having a weekly visit from a nurse case worker
• C. Attending a partial hospitalization program
• D. Visiting a community mental health center on a daily basis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: For clients requiring supervision due to severe mental illness, attending a partial hospitalization program provides structured care and support while allowing the client to return home in the evenings, making it a suitable option for follow-up care. The other choices are less appropriate: A home health aide may not provide the necessary level of care and supervision, a weekly visit from a nurse case worker may not be sufficient for the client's needs, and visiting a community mental health center on a daily basis may not offer the structured support required for someone with a severe mental illness.

4. Which medication is often prescribed for patients with bipolar disorder to help stabilize mood?

• A. Sertraline
• B. Lithium
• C. Haloperidol
• D. Diazepam

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lithium is the medication frequently prescribed to stabilize mood in patients with bipolar disorder. It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of manic episodes, making it a cornerstone in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Sertraline is an antidepressant commonly used for depression, while haloperidol and diazepam are not typically first-line treatments for bipolar disorder.

5. What is the primary benefit of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with anxiety disorders?

• A. It focuses on the long-term use of medications.
• B. It helps patients understand and change their thought patterns.
• C. It primarily addresses childhood traumas.
• D. It encourages patients to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary benefit of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with anxiety disorders is that it helps individuals understand and change their thought patterns. By doing so, patients can effectively reduce their anxiety levels by altering their responses to anxious thoughts and situations, leading to improved coping mechanisms and overall well-being. Choice A is incorrect because CBT does not focus on the long-term use of medications but rather on changing cognitive patterns. Choice C is incorrect because while CBT may address past experiences, its primary focus is on current thoughts and behaviors. Choice D is incorrect as CBT aims to help patients confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations rather than avoid them.

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