A client has been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
- A. Shortness of breath
- B. Chest pain
- C. Excessive worry
- D. Decreased appetite
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Individuals with generalized anxiety disorder commonly exhibit symptoms like excessive worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. Physical manifestations such as muscle tension and sleep disturbances are also prevalent. Shortness of breath and chest pain are more commonly associated with panic attacks rather than generalized anxiety disorder. Decreased appetite may be present in some cases, but excessive worry is a hallmark characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder.
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Which of the following are potential side effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Short-term memory loss
- B. Headache
- C. Confusion
- D. Tardive dyskinesia
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Potential side effects of ECT include short-term memory loss, headache, confusion, and nausea. Tardive dyskinesia is not a side effect of ECT; it is associated with long-term use of antipsychotic medications, particularly antipsychotics that block dopamine receptors over time. ECT is primarily used for severe depression, bipolar disorder, and certain psychotic disorders. The other choices, short-term memory loss, headache, and confusion, are known side effects of ECT and are usually short-term and manageable.
Which of the following are common side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Nausea
- B. Insomnia
- C. Weight loss
- D. Sexual dysfunction
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Common side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include nausea, insomnia, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. Weight loss is not a common side effect associated with SSRIs. Therefore, the correct answer is C. While some individuals may experience weight changes while taking SSRIs, weight loss is less common compared to weight gain as a side effect of these medications.
A client is diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?
- A. Excessive worry about physical symptoms
- B. Fear of gaining weight
- C. Frequent visits to healthcare providers
- D. Persistent depressive mood
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Individuals with somatic symptom disorder often exhibit frequent visits to healthcare providers due to their excessive worry about physical symptoms. They seek reassurance and explanations for their perceived medical issues, even when there is no organic basis for their complaints. This behavior is a characteristic feature of somatic symptom disorder and distinguishes it from other conditions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Excessive worry about physical symptoms may occur but it is not the primary behavior associated with this disorder. Fear of gaining weight is more characteristic of eating disorders, and persistent depressive mood is more indicative of mood disorders rather than somatic symptom disorder.
When interviewing a distressed client who was fired after 15 years of loyal employment, which of the following questions would best assist in determining the client's appraisal of the situation? Select all that apply.
- A. What caused the stressful situation?
- B. Have you ever experienced a similar stressful situation?
- C. Who do you think is to blame for this situation?
- D. Why do you think you were fired from your job?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The question 'Have you ever experienced a similar stressful situation?' is the most appropriate as it assesses the client's coping resources and encourages reflection on past experiences. This question can help the client consider alternative ways to deal with stress. Asking about the cause of the stressful situation may provide insight into the current situation but does not directly assess coping abilities. Inquiring about blame does not focus on coping strategies but may encourage negative thinking and a sense of victimization. Questioning why the client was fired is a nontherapeutic approach that can hinder communication by putting the client on the defensive.
A client has been prescribed diazepam (Valium) for the treatment of anxiety. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- B. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- C. Stop taking the medication if you feel better.
- D. Double the dose if you miss a dose.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking diazepam (Valium) as it can potentiate the sedative effects and increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. Taking the medication with food may help reduce stomach upset, but avoiding alcohol is crucial to ensure safe and effective use of diazepam. Choice B is partially correct, as taking the medication with food can indeed help with stomach upset, but it is not as crucial as avoiding alcohol. Choice C is incorrect because abruptly stopping diazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should only be done under medical supervision. Choice D is incorrect as doubling the dose is dangerous and should never be done without healthcare provider approval.