Psychiatric Nursing Exam Quiz! Trivia
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The nurse employed in a mental health unit is assigned to care for a client admitted to the unit 2 days ago. On review of the client's record, the nurse notes that the admission was a voluntary admission. Based on this type of admission, the nurse anticipates which of the following?
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The client will resist treatment measures.
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The client will be angry and will refuse care.
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The client's family will resist treatment measures.
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The client will participate in the planning of the care and treatment plan
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Psychiatric nursing exam quiz trivia! A psychiatric nurse is given the task of taking care of people suffering from different mental disorders, counselling or ensuring they take their medications and live productively. Are you ready to take up this job? This quiz has some practical exams where you get to choose the best cause of action in each situation. Do See moregive it a try and get to polish up your skills.
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- 2.
A home health nurse is talking to the spouse of a client taking an antidepressant. The spouse says, “Now that my husband is responding to the antidepressant, the suicidal risk is over and you can stop making these home visits.” After analyzing this statement, which of the following is the appropriate nursing response?
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“I need to continue with my visits. Your comment reflects a lack of knowledge that this disease runs in families.”
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“I agree with you. Clients who want to kill themselves are only suicidal for a limited time. No one can feel self-destructive forever.”
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“I agree with you. The suicidal threats were really attention seeking. Continuing to visit would reinforce your husband's use of manipulation.”
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“I need to continue with my visits. Most suicides occur within 3 months after improvement begins because the client now has the energy to carry out the suicidal intentions.”
Correct Answer
A. “I need to continue with my visits. Most suicides occur within 3 months after improvement begins because the client now has the energy to carry out the suicidal intentions.”Explanation
Most suicides occur within 3 months after the beginning of the improvement, when the client has the energy to carry out the suicidal intentions. Options 1, 2, and 3 are incorrect because they fail to address safety and involve giving false information. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and knowledge regarding the facts about suicide to answer the question. Recalling that a critical time for a suicidal client is when the client has energy will direct you to option 4. Review the concepts related
to suicide and therapeutic communication techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The supervisor reprimands the nurse in charge of the nursing unit because the charge nurse has not adhered to the unit budget. Later that afternoon, the charge nurse accuses the nursing staff of wasting supplies. This behavior is an example of:
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Denial
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Repression
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Suppression
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Displacement
Correct Answer
A. DisplacementExplanation
Ego defense mechanisms are operations outside of a person's awareness that the ego calls into play to protect against anxiety. Displacement is the discharging of pent-up feelings on persons less threatening than those who initially aroused the emotion. Denial is the blocking out of painful or anxiety-inducing events or feelings. Repression is unconsciously keeping unacceptable feelings out of awareness. Suppression is consciously keeping unacceptable feelings and thoughts out of awareness. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Read the behavior identified in the question to assist you in determining the type of ego defense mechanism or behavior used. Remember that displacement is the discharging of pent-up feelings on persons less threatening than those who initially aroused the emotion. If you had difficulty with this question, review defense mechanismsRate this question:
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- 4.
The client is preparing to attend a Gambler's Anonymous meeting for the first time. The prototype used by this group is the 12-step program developed by Alcoholics Anonymous. The nurse tells the client that the first step in the 12-step program is which of the following?
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Admitting to having a problem
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Substituting other activities for gambling
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Stating that the gambling will be stopped
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Discontinuing relationships with friends who are gamblers
Correct Answer
A. Admitting to having a problemExplanation
The first step in the 12-step program is to admit that a problem exists. Options 3 and 4 are unrealistic as a first step in the process to recovery. Although option 2 may be a strategy, it is not the first step.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and note the strategic words first step in the question. This will assist in directing you to option 1. If you are unfamiliar with the 12-step program, review this content.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The nurse employed in a mental health clinic is greeted by a neighbor in a local grocery store. The neighbor says to the nurse, “How is Carol doing? She is my best friend and is seen at your clinic every week.” The appropriate nursing response is which of the following?
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“I cannot discuss any client situation with you.”
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“If you want to know about Carol, you need to ask her yourself.”
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“I'm not suppose to discuss this, but because you are my neighbor, I can tell you that she is doing great!”
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“I'm not suppose to discuss this, but because you are my neighbor, I can tell you that she really has some problems!”
Correct Answer
A. “I cannot discuss any client situation with you.”Explanation
A nurse is required to maintain confidentiality regarding the client and the client's care. Confidentiality is basic to the therapeutic relationship and is a client's right. The most appropriate response to the neighbor is option 1. Option 2 is a rather blunt statement and does not acknowledge the issue that the nurse cannot reveal if the named person is or was a client. Options 3 and 4 identify statements that do not maintain client confidentiality.
Option 1 is the most direct and correct.
Test-Taking Strategy: Focus on the subject of the question, maintaining confidentiality. This should assist you easily in eliminating options 3 and 4. From the remaining options, select option 1 over option 2 because it is the most direct and correct. Option 2 is a rather blunt and rude statement. Review confidentiality issues if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 6.
When planning the discharge of a client with chronic anxiety, the nurse directs the goals at promoting a safe environment at home. The appropriate maintenance goal should focus on which of the following?
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Ignoring feelings of anxiety
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Identifying anxiety-producing situations
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Continued contact with a crisis counselor
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Eliminating all anxiety from daily situations
Correct Answer
A. Identifying anxiety-producing situationsExplanation
Recognizing situations that produce anxiety allows the client to prepare to cope with anxiety or avoid a specific stimulus. Counselors will not be available for all anxiety-producing
situations, and this option does not encourage the development of internal strengths. Ignoring feelings will not resolve anxiety. Elimination of all anxiety from life is impossible.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Eliminate option 4 first because of the word all. Eliminate option 1 next, because feelings should not be ignored. From the remaining options, select option 2 because this option is more client-centered and helps prepare the client to deal with anxiety should it occur. Review home care planning for the client with chronic anxiety if you had
difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A nurse is conducting a group therapy session. During the session, a client with mania consistently talks and dominates the group session, and her behavior is disrupting group interactions. The nurse would initially:
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Ask the client to leave the group session.
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Ask another nurse to escort the client out of the group session.
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Tell the client that she will not be able to attend any future group sessions.
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Tell the client that she needs to allow other clients in the group time to talk.
Correct Answer
A. Tell the client that she needs to allow other clients in the group time to talk.Explanation
Manic clients may be talkative and can dominate group meetings or therapy sessions by their excessive talking. If this occurs, the nurse initially would set limits on the client's behavior. Initially, asking the client to leave the session or asking another person to escort the client out of the session is inappropriate. This may agitate the client and further escalate the client's behavior. Option 2 is also an inappropriate initial action because it violates the client's right to receive treatment and is a threatening action. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and note the strategic word initially. Eliminate options 1 and 2 first because they are comparative or alike. Next, eliminate option 3 because it
violates the client's right to receive treatment and is a threatening action. Remember that setting firm limits with the client initially is best. Review care of a client with mania if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The community health nurse visits a client at home. The client states, “I haven't slept at all the last couple of nights.” Which response by the nurse illustrates a therapeutic communication technique for this client?
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“Go on.”
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“Sleeping?”
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“You're having difficulty sleeping?”
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“Sometimes, I have trouble sleeping too.”
Correct Answer
A. “You're having difficulty sleeping?”Explanation
Option 3 uses the therapeutic communication technique of restatement. Although restatement is a technique that has a prompting component to it, it repeats the client's major theme,
which assists the nurse to obtain a more specific perception of the problem from the client. Options 1, 2, and 4 are not therapeutic responses.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Option 1 is a general lead and allows the client to direct the discussion. Option 2 uses reflection, which simply repeats the client's last words to prompt further discussion. Option 4 focuses on the nurse's problem. Option 3 will provide the perception of the problem from the
client's perspective. Review therapeutic communication techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A client has been admitted to the mental health unit. On admission assessment, the nurse notes that the client was admitted by involuntary status. Based on this type of admission, the nurse would most likely expect that the client:
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Presents a harm to self
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Requested the admission
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Consented to the admission
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Provided written application to the facility for admission
Correct Answer
A. Presents a harm to selfExplanation
Involuntary admission is made without the client's consent. Involuntary admission is necessary when a person is a danger to self or others or is in need of psychiatric treatment. Options 2, 3, and 4 describe the process of voluntary admission. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and note the strategic words involuntary status. This should direct you easily to option 1. Also, note that options 2, 3, and 4 are comparative or alike. Review the process of involuntary admission if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The nurse is conducting a group therapy session, and a client with a manic disorder is monopolizing the group. The appropriate nursing action is which of the following?
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Ask the client to leave.
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Refer the client to another group.
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Tell the client to stop monopolizing
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Thank the client for the contribution and tell him or her to allow others a chance to contribute
Correct Answer
A. Thank the client for the contribution and tell him or her to allow others a chance to contributeExplanation
f a client is monopolizing the group, the nurse must be direct and decisive. The best action is to thank the client and suggest that the client stop talking and try listening to others. Although
option 3 may be a direct response, option 4 is a more specific and direct statement. Options 1 and 2 are inappropriate.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Eliminate options 1 and 2 first because they are comparative or alike. Use therapeutic communication techniques to assist in directing you to option 4. If you had difficulty with this question, review therapeutic communication techniques for the client with a manic disorder.Rate this question:
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- 11.
An 18-year-old woman is admitted to an inpatient mental health unit with the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. A cognitive behavioral approach is used as part of her treatment plan. The nurse understands that the purpose of this approach is to:
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Provide a supportive environment.
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Examine intrapsychic conflicts and past issues.
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Emphasize social interaction with clients who withdraw.
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Help the client identify and examine dysfunctional thoughts and beliefs.
Correct Answer
A. Help the client identify and examine dysfunctional thoughts and beliefs.Explanation
Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help the client identify and examine dysfunctional thoughts and to identify and examine values and beliefs that maintain these thoughts. Options 1, 2, and 3 are incorrect.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and note the strategic words cognitive behavioral. Focusing on these words should direct you to option 4. If you are unfamiliar with this type of therapy and its purpose, review this content.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A client is admitted to a mental health unit for treatment of psychotic behavior. The client is at the locked exit door and is shouting, “Let me out. There's nothing wrong with me. I don't belong here.” The nurse analyzes this behavior as:
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Denial
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Projection
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Regression
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Rationalization
Correct Answer
A. DenialExplanation
Denial is refusal to admit to a painful reality, which is treated as if it does not exist. In projection, a person unconsciously rejects emotionally unacceptable features and attributes them to other persons, objects, or situations. In regression, the client returns to an earlier, more comforting, although less mature, way of behaving. Rationalization is justifying illogical or unreasonable ideas, actions, or feelings by developing acceptable explanations that satisfy the teller and the listener.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. The strategic words in the question that should direct you to the correct option are “There's nothing wrong with me. ” Select the option that recognizes the client's attempt to avoid looking at the reality of the situation. If you had difficulty with this question, review defense mechanisms.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The nurse is performing an assessment on a client with dementia. Which data gathered during the assessment indicate a manifestation associated with dementia?
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Confabulation
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Improvement in sleeping
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Absence of sundown syndrome
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Presence of personal hygienic care
Correct Answer
A. ConfabulationExplanation
The clinical picture of dementia varies from the development of mild cognitive defects to severe, life-threatening alterations in neurological functioning. For the client to use confabulation or the fabrication of events or experiences to fill in memory gaps is not unusual. Often, lack of inhibitions on the part of the client may constitute the first indication of anything being “wrong” to the client's significant others (the client may undress in front of others or demonstrate slovenly table manners but was formerly well mannered). As the dementia progresses, the client will have episodes of wandering or sundowning.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and focus on the client's diagnosis. Noting the subject, a manifestation, will direct you to option 1. If you had difficulty with this question, review the manifestations associated with dementia.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A client is admitted to the mental health unit with a diagnosis of depression. The nurse develops a plan of care for the client and includes which appropriate activity in the plan?
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Reading and writing most of the day
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Several activities from which the client can choose
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Nothing, until the client asks to participate in milieu
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A structured program of activities in which the client can participate
Correct Answer
A. A structured program of activities in which the client can participateExplanation
A client with depression often suffers a depressed mood and is withdrawn. The person also experiences difficulty concentrating, loss of interest or pleasure, low energy, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness and poor self-esteem. The plan of care needs to provide successful experiences in a stimulating yet structured environment. Options 1, 2, and 3 are too “restrictive” and offer little or no structure and stimulation.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Recall that the depressed client requires a structured and stimulating program in a safe environment. Option 4 is the only option that will provide a safe and effective environment. Review care of the client with depression if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 15.
he spouse of a client admitted to the mental health unit for alcohol withdrawal says to the nurse, “I should get out of this bad situation.” The most helpful response by the nurse would be:
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“Why don't you tell your husband about this?”
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“What do you find difficult about this situation?”
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“This is not the best time to make that decision.”
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“I agree with you. You should get out of this situation.”
Correct Answer
A. “What do you find difficult about this situation?”Explanation
The most helpful response is one that encourages the client to solve problems. Giving advice implies that the nurse knows what is best and also can foster dependency. The nurse should not agree with the client, nor should the nurse request that the client provide explanations.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use therapeutic communication techniques. Eliminate option 1 because of the word why, which should be avoided in communication. Eliminate option 4 because the nurse is agreeing with the client. Eliminate option 3 because this option places the client's feelings on hold. Option 2 is the only option that addresses the client's feelings. Review therapeutic communication techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The client was admitted involuntarily to the mental health unit because of episodes of extremely violent behavior. The client is demanding to be discharged from the hospital and the nurse does not allow the client to leave. Which of the following represents the legal ramifications associated with the nurse's behavior?
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The nurse will be charged with assault.
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The nurse will be charged with slander.
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The nurse will be charged with imprisonment.
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No charge will be made against the nurse because the nurse's actions are reasonable.
Correct Answer
A. No charge will be made against the nurse because the nurse's actions are reasonable.Explanation
False imprisonment is an act with the intent to confine a person to a specific area. A nurse can be charged with false imprisonment if the nurse prohibits a client from leaving the
hospital if the client has been admitted voluntarily and if no agency or legal policies exist for detaining the client. However, if the client has been admitted involuntarily or had agreed to an evaluation before discharge, the nurse's actions are reasonable.
Test-Taking Strategy: Noting the strategic words admitted involuntarily will assist you in eliminating option 3 and direct you
to option 4. Options 1 and 2 are unrelated to the subject of the question and can be eliminated easily. Review the subjects related to false imprisonment and hospital admission if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The nurse is discharging a client with a history of command hallucinations to harm self or others. The nurse provides instructions to the client about interventions for hallucinations and anxiety and determines that the client understands the instructions if the client states:
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“My medications won't make me anxious.”
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“I'll go to support group and talk so that I don't hurt anyone.”
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“I won't get anxious or hear things if I get enough sleep and eat well.”
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“I can call my therapist when I'm hallucinating so that I can talk about my feelings and plans and not hurt anyone.”
Correct Answer
A. “I can call my therapist when I'm hallucinating so that I can talk about my feelings and plans and not hurt anyone.”Explanation
The risk for impulsive and aggressive behavior may increase if a client is receiving command hallucinations to harm self or others. The nurse should ask the client whether he or she has intentions to hurt himself or herself or others. Talking about auditory hallucinations can interfere with subvocal muscular
activity associated with a hallucination. Options 1, 2, and 3 will aid in wellness but are not specific interventions for hallucinations, if they occur.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Options 1, 2, and 3 are interventions that a client can carry out to aid wellness. Option 4 is a specific agreement to seek help and evidences self-responsible commitment and control over one's own behavior. Review teaching points for a client with a history of hallucinations
if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A client with a diagnosis of major depression, recurrent, with psychotic features, is admitted to the mental health unit. To create a safe environment for the client, the nurse most importantly devises a plan of care that deals specifically with the client's:
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Self-care deficit.
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Imbalanced nutrition.
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Deficient knowledge.
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Disturbed thought processes.
Correct Answer
A. Disturbed thought processes.Explanation
Major depression, recurrent, with psychotic features, alerts the nurse that in addition to the criteria that designates the diagnosis of major depression, one also must deal with the client's psychosis. Psychosis is defined as a state in which a person's mental capacity to recognize reality and to communicate and relate to
others is impaired, thus interfering with the person's ability to deal with the demands of life. Disturbed thought processes generally indicate a state of increased anxiety in which hallucinations and delusions prevail. Although all the nursing diagnoses may be appropriate because the client is experiencing psychosis, option 4 is the correct option.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. All the nursing diagnoses listed may be appropriate for a client diagnosed with major depression. The strategic words leading to the correct option are psychotic features, in which the client often suffers with disturbed thought processes, such as hallucinations and delusions. Review appropriate nursing diagnoses for major depression and psychotic features if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The home health nurse visits a client at home and determines that the client is dependent on drugs. Which of the following assessment questions would assist the nurse to provide appropriate nursing care?
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“Why did you get started on these drugs?”
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“How much do you use and what effect does it have on you?”
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“How long did you think you could take these drugs without someone finding out?”
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The nurse does not ask any questions for fear that the client is in denial and will throw the nurse out of the home.
Correct Answer
A. “How much do you use and what effect does it have on you?”Explanation
Whenever the nurse carries out an assessment for a client who is dependent on drugs, it is best for the nurse to attempt to elicit information by being nonjudgmental and direct. Option 1 is incorrect because it is judgmental and off focus and reflects the nurse's bias. Option 3 is incorrect because it is judgmental, insensitive, and aggressive, which is nontherapeutic. Option 4 is incorrect because it indicates passivity on the nurse's part and uses rationalization to avoid the therapeutic nursing intervention. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and therapeutic communication techniques to answer the question. Also, focus on the subject, provide appropriate nursing care. Review assessment of a client who is a substance abuser if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The client with schizophrenia has been started on medication therapy with clozapine (Clozaril). The nurse assesses the results of which laboratory study to monitor for adverse effects from this medication?
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Platelet count
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Blood glucose level
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White blood cell count
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Liver function studies
Correct Answer
A. White blood cell countExplanation
The client taking clozapine (Clozaril) may experience agranulocytosis, which is monitored by reviewing the results of the white blood cell count. Treatment is interrupted if the white blood cell count drops below 3000/mm3. Agranulocytosis could be fatal if undetected and untreated. The other options are not related specifically to the use of this medication.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Recalling that this medication causes agranulocytosis will direct you to option 3. Review the adverse effects of this medication if you had
difficulty with this questionRate this question:
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- 21.
A client with major depression is considering cognitive therapy. The client asks the nurse, “How does this treatment work?” The nurse responds and tells the client that:
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“This type of treatment will help you relax and develop new coping skills.”
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“This type of treatment helps you confront your fears by gradually exposing you to them.”
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“This type of treatment helps you examine how your past life has contributed to your problems.”
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This type of treatment helps you examine how your thoughts and feelings contribute to your difficulties.”
Correct Answer
A. This type of treatment helps you examine how your thoughts and feelings contribute to your difficulties.”Explanation
Cognitive therapy frequently is used for clients with depression. This type of therapy is based on exploring the client's subjective experience. Cognitive therapy includes examining the client's thoughts and feelings about situations and how these thoughts and feelings contribute to and perpetuate the client's difficulties and mood.
Test-Taking Strategy: Focusing on the word cognitive will assist you in selecting the correct option. Look for a similar word used in the question and repeated in one of the options. Note the relationship of the word cognitive in the question and thoughts in option 4. Review this form of therapy if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A hospitalized client with a history of alcohol abuse tells the nurse, “I am leaving now. I have to go. I don't want any more treatment. I have things that I have to do right away.” The client has not been discharged. In fact, the client is scheduled for an important diagnostic test to be performed in 1 hour. After the nurse discusses the client's concerns with the client, the client dresses and begins to walk out of the hospital room. The appropriate nursing action is to:
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Call the nursing supervisor.
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Call security to block all exit areas.
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Restrain the client until the physician can be reached.
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Tell the client that the client cannot return to this hospital again if the client leaves now.
Correct Answer
A. Call the nursing supervisor.Explanation
A nurse can be charged with false imprisonment if a client is made to believe wrongfully that he or she cannot leave the hospital. Most health care facilities have documents that the client is asked to sign relating to the client's responsibilities when the client leaves against medical advice. The client should be asked to sign this document before leaving. The nurse should request that the client wait to speak to the physician before leaving, but if the client refuses to do so, the nurse cannot hold the client against the client's will. Restraining the client and calling security to block exits constitutes false imprisonment. All clients have a right to health care and cannot be told otherwise.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Keeping the concept of false imprisonment in mind, eliminate options 2 and 3 because they are comparative or alike. Eliminate option 4, knowing that all clients have a right to health care. From the options presented, the best action is option 1. Review the points related to false imprisonment if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A client with a diagnosis of major depression who has attempted suicide says to the nurse, “I should have died. I've always been a failure. Nothing ever goes right for me.” The therapeutic response to the client is:
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“I don't see you as a failure.”
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“You have everything to live for.”
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“Feeling like this is all part of being ill.”
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“You've been feeling like a failure for a while?”
Correct Answer
A. “You've been feeling like a failure for a while?”Explanation
Responding to the feelings expressed by a client is an effective therapeutic communication technique. The correct option is an example of the use of restating. Options 1, 2, and 3 block communication because they minimize the client's experience and do not facilitate exploration of the client's expressed feelings. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and therapeutic communication techniques to direct you to the option that directly addresses the client's feelings and concerns. Also, option 4 is the only option stated in the form of a question and is open-ended; thus, it will encourage the verbalization of feelings. Review therapeutic communication techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The nurse is caring for a client with a phobia who is being treated for the condition. The client is introduced to short periods of exposure to the phobic object while in a relaxed state. The nurse understands that this form of behavior modification can best be described as:
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Milieu therapy
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Aversion therapy
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Self-control therapy
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Systematic desensitization
Correct Answer
A. Systematic desensitizationExplanation
Systematic desensitization is a form of therapy used when the client is introduced to short periods of exposure to the phobic
object while in a relaxed state. Gradually exposure is increased until the anxiety about or fear of the object or situation has ceased.
Options 1, 2, and 3 are incorrect.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Focus on the strategic words introduced to short periods of exposure. This will direct you to the correct option. If you had difficulty with this question, review systematic desensitization.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The nurse is caring for a male client diagnosed with catatonic stupor. The client is lying on the bed with his body pulled into a fetal position. The appropriate nursing intervention is which of the following?
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Ask direct questions to encourage talking.
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Leave the client alone and intermittently check on him.
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Sit beside the client in silence with occasional open-ended questions.
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Take the client into the dayroom with other clients so that they can help watch him.
Correct Answer
A. Sit beside the client in silence with occasional open-ended questions.Explanation
Clients who are withdrawn may be immobile and mute and may require consistent, repeated approaches. Communication with withdrawn clients requires much patience from the nurse. Interventions include the establishment of interpersonal contact. The nurse facilitates communication with the client by sitting in silence, asking open-ended questions, and pausing to provide opportunities for the client to respond.
Test-Taking Strategy: Eliminate option 2 because the client would not be left alone. Option 4 relies on other clients to care for this client, which is an inappropriate expectation. Asking direct questions of this client is not therapeutic. Option 3 provides for client supervision and communication as appropriate. Review care of the client with catatonic stupor if this question was difficult.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The nurse is planning activities for a client who has bipolar disorder with aggressive social behavior. Which of the following activities would be most appropriate for this client?
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Chess
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Writing
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Ping pong
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Basketball
Correct Answer
A. WritingExplanation
Solitary activities that require a short attention span with mild physical exertion are the most appropriate activities for a client who is exhibiting aggressive behavior. Writing (journaling), walks
with staff, and finger painting are activities that minimize stimuli
and provide a constructive release for tension. Competitive games should be avoided because they can stimulate aggression and increase psychomotor activity.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Options 1, 3, and 4 are comparative or alike in that they are activities that the client cannot do alone. Option 2 identifies a solitary activity.
Review care of the client with aggressive behavior if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A client who has just been sexually assaulted is quiet and calm. The nurse analyzes this behavior as indicating which defense mechanism?
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Denial
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Projection
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Rationalization
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Intellectualization
Correct Answer
A. DenialExplanation
Denial is a refusal to admit to a painful reality and maybe a response by a victim of sexual abuse. Projection is transferring one's internal feelings, thoughts, and unacceptable ideas and traits to someone else. Rationalization is justifying the unacceptable attributes of oneself. Intellectualization is the excessive use of abstract thinking or generalizations to decrease painful thinking. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and note the strategic words calm and quiet. These behaviors indicate denial in a sexually abused victim. If you had difficulty with this question, review content related to the sexually abused victim and defense mechanisms.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The nurse is providing care to a client admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of acute anxiety disorder. While conversing with the client, the client says to the nurse, “I have a secret that I want to tell you. You won't tell anyone about it, will you?” The appropriate nursing response is which of the following?
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“No, I won't tell anyone.”
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“I cannot promise to keep a secret.”
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“If you tell me the secret, I will tell it to your doctor.”
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“If you tell me the secret, I will need to document it in your record.”
Correct Answer
A. “I cannot promise to keep a secret.”Explanation
The nurse should never promise to keep a secret. Secrets are appropriate in a social relationship but not in a therapeutic one.
The nurse needs to be honest with the client and tell the client that a promise cannot be made to keep the secret. Options 1, 3, and 4 are inappropriate responses.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Option 1 can be eliminated easily because it is inappropriate. Options 3 and 4 are not only inappropriate but are also somewhat threatening and may even block further communication. Review therapeutic communication techniques and the nurse-client relationship if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 29.
A female client with anorexia nervosa is a member of a predischarge support group. The client verbalizes that she would like to buy some new clothes, but her finances are limited. Group members have brought some used clothes to the client to replace the client's old clothes. The client believes that the new clothes were much too tight and has reduced her calorie intake to 800 calories daily. The nurse analyzes this behavior as:
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Normal behavior
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Evidence of the client's disturbed body image
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Regression as the client is moving toward the community
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Indicative of the client's ambivalence about hospital discharge
Correct Answer
A. Evidence of the client's disturbed body imageExplanation
Disturbed body image is a concern with clients with anorexia nervosa. Although the client may struggle with
ambivalence and show regressed behavior, the client's coping pattern relates to the basic issue of disturbed body image. The nurse should address this need in the support group.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination, focusing on the information provided in the question, which is related directly to an altered body image. This should direct you to the correct option. Review the needs of the client with anorexia nervosa if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The client with schizophrenia has been started on medication therapy with clozapine (Clozaril). The nurse assesses the results of which laboratory study to monitor for adverse effects from this medication?
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Platelet count
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Blood glucose level
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White blood cell count
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Liver function studies
Correct Answer
A. White blood cell countExplanation
The client taking clozapine (Clozaril) may experience agranulocytosis, which is monitored by reviewing the results of the white blood cell count. Treatment is interrupted if the white blood cell count drops below 3000/mm3. Agranulocytosis could be fatal if undetected and untreated. The other options are not related specifically to the use of this medication.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Recalling that this medication causes agranulocytosis will direct you to option 3. Review the adverse effects of this medication if you had
difficulty with this questionRate this question:
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- 31.
A nurse enters a client's room, and the client is demanding release from the hospital. The nurse reviews the client's record and notes that the client was admitted 2 days ago for treatment of an anxiety disorder and that the admission was a voluntary admission. Which of the following actions will the nurse take?
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Contact the physician.
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Call the client's family.
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Persuade the client to stay a few more days.
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Tell the client that discharge is not possible at this time.
Correct Answer
A. Contact the physician.Explanation
Generally, the client seeks voluntary admission. Voluntary clients have the right to demand and obtain release. If the client is a minor, the release may be contingent on the consent of the parent(s) or guardian. The nurse needs to be familiar with the state and facility policies and procedures. Many states require that the client submit a written release notice to the facility staff members, who reevaluate the client's condition for possible conversion to involuntary status, according to criteria established by laws. The best nursing action is to contact the physician. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Noting the type of hospital admission will assist in eliminating option 4. To “persuade” a client to stay in the hospital is inappropriate. Option 2 should be eliminated simply based on the subjects of client rights and confidentiality. Review the various types of hospital admission and discharge processes if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The nurse is preparing the client for the termination phase of the nurse-client relationship. The nurse prepares to implement which nursing task appropriate for this phase?
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Planning short-term goals
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Making appropriate referrals
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Developing realistic solutions
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Identifying expected outcomes
Correct Answer
A. Making appropriate referralsExplanation
Tasks of the termination phase include evaluating client performance, evaluating achievement of expected outcomes, evaluating future needs, making appropriate referrals, and dealing with the common behaviors associated with termination. Options 1, 3, and 4 identify the tasks of the working phase of the relationship. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Noting the strategic words termination phase should direct you easily to option 2. If you are unfamiliar with the appropriate tasks of the phases of the nurse-client relationship, review this content.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The client is admitted to the mental health unit with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. A nursing diagnosis formulated for the client is thought processes, disturbed related to paranoia. In formulating nursing interventions with the members of the health care team, the nurse provides instructions to:
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Increase socialization of the client with peers.
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Avoid laughing or whispering in front of the client.
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Begin to educate the client about social supports in the community.
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Have the client sign a release of information to appropriate parties so that adequate data can be obtained for assessment purposes.
Correct Answer
A. Avoid laughing or whispering in front of the client.Explanation
Disturbed thought process related to paranoia is the client's problem, and the plan of care must address this problem. The client is experiencing paranoia and is distrustful and suspicious of others. The members of the health care team need to establish a rapport and trust with the client. Therefore, laughing or whispering in front of the client would be counterproductive. Options 1, 3, and 4 ask the client to trust on a multitude of levels. These options are actions that are too intrusive for a client who is paranoid. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and knowledge regarding this disorder to answer the question. Noting that the client has paranoia will direct you to option 2. Review this disorder if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The client asks the nurse about milieu therapy. The nurse responds, knowing that the primary focus of milieu therapy can best be described as which of the following?
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A form of behavior modification therapy
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A cognitive approach to changing behavior
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A living, learning, or working environment
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A behavioral approach to changing behavior
Correct Answer
A. A living, learning, or working environmentExplanation
Milieu therapy, or “therapeutic community,” has as its focus a living, learning, or working environment. Such therapy may be based on any number of therapeutic modalities from structured behavioral therapy to spontaneous, humanistically oriented approaches. Although milieu may include behavioral approaches, option 3 describes its primary focus.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Note that options 1, 2, and 4 are comparative or alike and that option 3 identifies a comprehensive description. Review milieu therapy if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 35.
A nurse employed in a mental health unit of a hospital is the leader of a group psychotherapy session. The nurse's role in the termination stage of group development is to:
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Encourage problem-solving.
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Encourage accomplishment of the group's work.
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Acknowledge the contributions of each group member.
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Encourage members to become acquainted with one another.
Correct Answer
A. Acknowledge the contributions of each group member.Explanation
In the termination stage, the group leader's task is to acknowledge the contributions of each member and the experience of the group as a whole. In this stage, the group members prepare for separation and assist each other to prepare for the future. Options 1 and 2 identify the tasks of the working stage. Option 4 identifies the orientation stage.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Eliminate options 1 and 2 first because they are comparative or alike. From the remaining options, note the relationship between the words termination stage in the question and option 3. Review the stages of group development if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The nurse develops a nursing diagnosis of self-care deficit for an older client with dementia. Which of the following is an appropriate goal for this client?
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The client will function at the highest level of independence possible.
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The client will complete all activities of daily living independently within a 1-hour time frame.
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The client will be admitted to a long-term care facility to have activities of daily living needs met.
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The nursing staff will attend to all the client's activities of daily living needs during the hospital stay.
Correct Answer
A. The client will function at the highest level of independence possible.Explanation
All clients, regardless of age, need to be encouraged to perform at the highest level of independence possible. Independence contributes to the client's sense of control and sense of well-being. Option 3 is incorrect because what the self-care deficit entails is not known. To assume that the client requires long-term care based on so little information would be erroneous. Options 2 and 4 are close-ended statements.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Eliminate options 2 and 4 first because of the close-ended word all. From the remaining options, select option 1 because it is the umbrella option. Review care of the client with dementia if you had difficulty with
this question.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The nurse determines that the wife of an alcoholic client is benefiting from attending an Al-Anon group when the nurse hears the wife say:
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“I no longer feel that I deserve the beatings my husband inflicts on me.”
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“My attendance at the meetings has helped me to see that I provoke my husband's violence.”
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“I enjoy attending the meetings because they get me out of the house and away from my husband.”
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“I can tolerate my husband's destructive behaviors now that I know they are common with alcoholics.”
Correct Answer
A. “I no longer feel that I deserve the beatings my husband inflicts on me.”Explanation
Al-Anon support groups are a protected, supportive opportunity for spouses and significant others to learn what to expect and to obtain excellent pointers about successful behavioral changes. Option 1 is the most healthy response because it exemplifies an understanding that the alcoholic partner is responsible for his behavior and cannot be allowed to blame family members for loss of control. In option 2, the nonalcoholic partner should not feel responsible when the spouse loses control. Option 4 indicates that the wife remains codependent. Option 3 indicates that the group is viewed as an escape, not a place to work on issues. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Note the strategic words benefiting from attending an Al-Anon group. This will direct you to option 1. Review the purpose of this group if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 38.
he client is unwilling to go out of the house for fear of “doing something crazy in public.” Because of this fear, the client remains homebound, except when accompanied outside by the spouse. Based on this data, the nurse determines that the client is experiencing:
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Agoraphobia
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Social phobia
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Claustrophobia
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Hypochondriasis
Correct Answer
A. AgoraphobiaExplanation
Agoraphobia is a fear of open spaces and the fear of being trapped in a situation from which there may not be an escape. Agoraphobia includes the possibility of experiencing a sense of helplessness or embarrassment if an attack occurs. Avoidance of such situations usually results in reduction of social and professional interactions. Social phobia focuses more on specific situations, such as the fear of speaking, performing, or eating in public. Claustrophobia is a fear of closed places. Clients with hypochondriacal symptoms focus their anxiety on physical complaints and are preoccupied with their health.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Focusing on the strategic words remains homebound will direct you to option 1. If you had difficulty with this question, review phobia types and associated client behaviors.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The client says to the nurse, “I'm going to die, and I wish my family would stop hoping for a cure! I get so angry when they carry on like this. After all, I'm the one who's dying.” The therapeutic response by the nurse is:
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“Have you shared your feelings with your family?”
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“I think we should talk more about your anger with your family.”
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“You're feeling angry that your family continues to hope for you to be cured?”
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“Well, it sounds like you're being pretty pessimistic. After all, years ago, people died of pneumonia.”
Correct Answer
A. “You're feeling angry that your family continues to hope for you to be cured?”Explanation
Restating is the therapeutic communication technique in which the nurse repeats what the client says to show understanding and to review what was said. Option 3 uses the therapeutic technique of restating. In option 1, the nurse is attempting to assess the client's ability to discuss feelings openly with family members.
In option 2, the nurse attempts to use focusing, but the attempt to discuss central issues is premature. In option 4, the nurse makes a judgment and is nontherapeutic in the one-to-one relationship. Test-Taking Strategy: Use therapeutic communication techniques to answer the question. Option 3 is the only option that identifies the use of a therapeutic technique and focuses on the client's feelings. Review these techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 40.
During the termination phase of the nurse-client relationship, the clinic nurse observes that the client has made several sarcastic remarks and has an angry affect. The most appropriate interpretation of the behavior is that the client:
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Needs to be admitted to the hospital.
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Needs to be referred to the psychiatrist as soon as possible.
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Requires further treatment and is not ready to be discharged.
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Is displaying typical behaviors that can occur during termination.
Correct Answer
A. Is displaying typical behaviors that can occur during termination.Explanation
In the termination phase of a relationship, it is normal for a client to demonstrate a number of regressive behaviors that can be disturbing to the nurse. Typical behaviors include return of symptoms, anger, withdrawal, and minimizing the relationship. The anger that the client is experiencing is a normal behavior during the termination phase and does not necessarily indicate the need for hospitalization or treatment.
Test-Taking Strategy: Note the strategic words termination phase. This alone may assist in directing you to option 4. Additionally,
note that options 1, 2, and 3 are comparable. These options address the need for further supervised treatment. If you are unfamiliar with the client behaviors associated with the termination phase, review this content.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A client with an eating disorder is planning to attend group meetings with Overeaters Anonymous, and the nurse describes this group to the client. The nurse determines that the client needs additional information if the client states which of the following about this self-help group?
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“The leader is a nurse or psychiatrist.”
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“The members provide support to each other.”
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“People who have a similar problem are able to help others.”
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“It is designed to serve people who have a common problem.”
Correct Answer
A. “The leader is a nurse or psychiatrist.”Explanation
The sponsor of a self-help group is an experienced member of the group. A nurse or psychiatrist may be asked by the group to serve as a resource but would not be the leader of the group. Options 2, 3, and 4 are characteristics of a self-help group. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and focus on the subject, self-help group. Note the strategic words needs
additional information in the question. Note that options 2, 3, and 4 are comparative or alike. This should direct you easily to option 1, the correct option. Review the characteristics of a self-help group if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 42.
A client begins to experience extrapyramidal side effects from an antipsychotic medication. The nurse anticipates that the physician will prescribe which of the following to treat this condition?
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Haloperidol (Haldol)
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Benztropine (Cogentin)
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Prochlorperazine (Compazine)
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Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
Correct Answer
A. Benztropine (Cogentin)Explanation
Benztropine (Cogentin) is an anticholinergic medication used to treat drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions, except tardive dyskinesia. Options 1, 3, and 4 are antipsychotic medications. Antipsychotic medications can cause extrapyramidal reactions Test-Taking Strategy: Focus on the medications in the options. Recalling the classifications of each will direct you to option 2. Remember that benztropine (Cogentin) is an anticholinergic medication. Review the side effects and extrapyramidal reactions of antipsychotic medications if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Laboratory work is prescribed for a client who has been experiencing delusions. When the nurse approaches the client to obtain a specimen of the client's blood, the client begins to shout “You're all vampires. Let me out of here!” The appropriate nursing response is which of the following?
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“What makes you think that I am a vampire?”
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“I'll leave and come back later for your blood.”
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“I am not going to hurt you; I am going to help you.”
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“It must be frightening to think that others want to hurt you.”
Correct Answer
A. “It must be frightening to think that others want to hurt you.”Explanation
Option 4 helps the client focus on the emotion underlying the delusion but does not argue with it. Option 1 places the client in a position that requires a response. Option 2 avoids the client. Option 3 is an attempt to convince the client to believe another thought. This response may cause the client to hold the delusion more strongly. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and therapeutic communication techniques to answer the question. Option 4 is the only option that recognizes the client's needs and focuses on the client's feelings. Review therapeutic communication techniques if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 44.
All treatment team members are seen as equally important in helping clients meet their treatment goals. This type of therapy approach is:
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Milieu therapy
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Interpersonal therapy
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Behavior modification
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Rational emotive therapy
Correct Answer
A. Milieu therapyExplanation
All treatment team members are viewed as significant and valuable to the client's successful treatment outcomes in milieu therapy. Behavior modification is based on rewards and punishment. Rational emotive therapy deals with the correction of distorted
thinking. Interpersonal therapy on the other hand is based on a one-to-one or group therapy approach in which the therapist-client relationship is often used as a way for the client to examine other relationships in his or her life.
Test-Taking Strategy: Focus on the subject. Note the relationship between the words helping clients to meet their treatment goals and option 1. Review the types of therapy noted in the options if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 45.
The nurse is caring for a female client who was admitted to the mental health unit recently for anorexia nervosa. The nurse enters the client's room and notes that the client is engaged in rigorous push-ups. Which nursing action is appropriate?
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Interrupt the client and weigh her immediately.
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Interrupt the client and offer to take her for a walk.
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Allow the client to complete her exercise program.
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Tell the client that she is not allowed to exercise rigorously.
Correct Answer
A. Interrupt the client and offer to take her for a walk.Explanation
Clients with anorexia nervosa frequently are preoccupied with rigorous exercise and push themselves beyond normal limits to work off caloric intake. The nurse must provide for appropriate exercise and place limits on rigorous activities. Options 1, 3, and 4 are inappropriate nursing actions.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination and focus on the client's diagnosis. Also, focus on the need for the nurse to set firm limits with clients who have this disorder. If you had difficulty with this question, review interventions for the client with anorexia nervosa.Rate this question:
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- 46.
A client is admitted to a medical nursing unit with a diagnosis of acute blindness. Many tests are performed, and there seems to be no organic reason why this client cannot see. The nurse later learns that when a family of three was killed. The nurse suspects that the client may be experiencing a:
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Psychosis
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Repression
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Conversion disorder
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Dissociative disorder
Correct Answer
A. Conversion disorderExplanation
A conversion disorder is the alteration or loss of a physical function that cannot be explained by any known pathophysiological mechanism. A conversion disorder is thought to be an expression of a psychological need or conflict. In this situation, the client witnessed an accident that was so psychologically painful that the client became blind. A dissociative disorder is a disturbance or alteration in the normally integrative functions of identity, memory, or consciousness. Psychosis is a state in which a person's mental capacity to recognize reality, communicate, and relate to others is impaired, thus interfering with the person's ability to deal with life's demands. Repression is a coping mechanism in which unacceptable feelings are kept out of awareness.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. The key to the correct option lies in the fact that the client presents no organic reason to account for the blindness—hence, a conversion disorder. If you had difficulty with this question, review defense mechanisms and the concepts associated with a conversion disorder.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The nurse assesses a client with the admitting diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder, mania. The symptom presented by the client that requires the nurse's immediate intervention is the client's:
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Outlandish behaviors and inappropriate dress
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Nonstop physical activity and poor nutritional intake
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Grandiose delusions of being a royal descendent of King Arthur
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Constant, incessant talking that includes sexual innuendoes and teasing the staff
Correct Answer
A. Nonstop physical activity and poor nutritional intakeExplanation
Mania is a mood characterized by excitement, euphoria, hyperactivity, excessive energy, decreased need for sleep, and impaired ability to concentrate or complete a single train of thought. Mania is a period when the mood is predominantly elevated, expansive, or irritable. All options reflect a client's possible symptomatology. Option 2, however, clearly presents a problem
that compromises physiological integrity and needs to be addressed immediately.
Test-Taking Strategy: Note the strategic word immediate and use Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory to assist you in answering the question. Option 2 is the only option that reflects a physiological need. Review care of the client with mania if you had difficulty
with this question.Rate this question:
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- 48.
A client who is delusional says to the nurse, “The federal guards were sent to kill me.” The nurse's best response is:
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“I don't believe this is true.”
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“The guards are not out to kill you.”
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“What makes you think the guards were sent to hurt you?”
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“I don't know anything about the guards. Do you feel afraid that people are trying to hurt you?”
Correct Answer
A. “I don't know anything about the guards. Do you feel afraid that people are trying to hurt you?”Explanation
For the nurse to empathize with the client's experience is most therapeutic. Disagreeing with delusions may make the client more defensive, and the client may cling to the delusions even
more. Encouraging discussion regarding the delusion is
inappropriate.
Test-Taking Strategy: Use therapeutic communication techniques. Eliminate options 1 and 2 because they are comparative or alike and are statements that disagree with the client. Option 3 encourages discussion regarding the delusion. Review communication techniques with the client experiencing delusions if you had
difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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- 49.
The nurse observes that a client is pacing, agitated, and presenting aggressive gestures. The client's speech pattern is rapid, and affect is belligerent. Based on these observations, the nurse's immediate priority of care is to:
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Provide safety for the client and other clients on the unit.
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Provide the clients on the unit with a sense of comfort and safety.
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Assist the staff in caring for the client in a controlled environment.
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Offer the client a less stimulated area to calm down and gain control.
Correct Answer
A. Provide safety for the client and other clients on the unit.Explanation
Safety of the client and other clients is the priority. Option 1 is the only option that addresses the client and other
clients' safety needs. Option 2 addresses other clients' needs. Option 3 is not client-centered. Option 4 addresses the client's needs. Test-Taking Strategy: Note the strategic words immediate priority and use Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory to prioritize. Note the words agitated, aggressive, and belligerent. Safety is the strategic subject. Option 1 is the umbrella option and addresses the safety of all. Review nursing interventions to provide safety to clients if you had difficulty with this question.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jan 17, 2014Quiz Created by
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