A 72-year-old patient has the medical diagnosis of delirium secondary to anticholinergic medication toxicity. Family members are very anxious and express their concerns about the patient's condition. What information should serve as the basis for the nurse's reply?
- A. Provide education and information regarding the medical diagnosis, delirium secondary to anticholinergic medication toxicity.
- B. Reassure the family that the patient will recover fully.
- C. Suggest that the family consider nursing home placement.
- D. None of the above.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. The nurse should provide education and information about the medical diagnosis, delirium secondary to anticholinergic medication toxicity. This is important because it helps the family understand the condition, its causes, symptoms, and treatment. By educating the family, they can better support the patient and be involved in the care plan.
Choice B is incorrect because it provides false reassurance without addressing the underlying issue or providing necessary information.
Choice C is incorrect because suggesting nursing home placement is premature and not based on the patient's current condition or needs.
Therefore, the best approach is to choose option A to empower the family with knowledge and understanding to better assist the patient.
You may also like to solve these questions
A newly admitted elderly client seems to become confused and agitated every evening after dinner. This client most likely is suffering from:
- A. Alzheimer's disease
- B. Acute dementia
- C. Sundown syndrome
- D. Delirium
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sundown syndrome. This is a condition where elderly individuals experience confusion and agitation in the evening. The symptoms are typically more pronounced during this time of day. It is not Alzheimer's disease (A) as that is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Acute dementia (B) is not a recognized medical term and does not accurately describe the symptoms. Delirium (D) is an acute state of confusion that can occur at any time of day, not just in the evening like sundown syndrome.
Early manifestation of symptoms such as severe impairment in social interaction and in communication can be diagnosed as which of the following?
- A. Infantile autism
- B. Infantile amnesia
- C. Cerebral palsy
- D. Rett's syndrome
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Infantile Autism: Early manifestations of Autistic Disorder symptoms, including impaired social interaction and communication.
An 85-year-old has difficulty walking after a knee replacement. The patient tells the nurse, 'It's awful to be old. Every day is a struggle. No one cares about old people.' Select the nurse's best response.
- A. Everyone here cares about old people. That's why we work here.
- B. It sounds like you're having a difficult time. Tell me about it.
- C. Let's not focus on the negative. Tell me something good.
- D. You are still able to get around, and your mind is alert.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it shows empathy and encourages the patient to express their feelings. By saying "Tell me about it," the nurse acknowledges the patient's struggle and opens up the opportunity for the patient to share more about their feelings and concerns. This can help build a therapeutic relationship and provide emotional support.
Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's feelings by making a general statement about everyone caring without addressing the patient's specific concerns.
Choice C is incorrect because it invalidates the patient's emotions by suggesting to focus on positivity without addressing the patient's current distress.
Choice D is incorrect because it minimizes the patient's struggle by only focusing on physical abilities and cognitive function without addressing the emotional aspect of the patient's statement.
To cope with the devastating effects of schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses, family members or significant others and clients will benefit most from:
- A. Regular psychoanalysis
- B. Intensive short-term therapy
- C. Ongoing treatment and support
- D. Continued medication adjustments
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ongoing treatment and support. This option is the most beneficial for coping with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia because it involves long-term management and assistance. Ongoing treatment can include therapy, medication management, and support groups, which are crucial for helping individuals and their families manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Explanation:
A: Regular psychoanalysis is not the most effective approach for managing the devastating effects of serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. It may not provide the immediate support and intervention needed for crisis situations.
B: Intensive short-term therapy may offer temporary relief, but ongoing treatment and support are essential for long-term management and stability.
D: Continued medication adjustments are important, but they are just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan. Ongoing treatment and support encompass a broader range of interventions that are necessary for addressing the complex needs of individuals with serious mental illnesses.
The nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with bulimia nervosa. Which assessment is most important?
- A. Monitor electrolyte levels and cardiac function.
- B. Observe for compulsive eating behaviors.
- C. Track the patient's ability to self-regulate food intake.
- D. Assess for symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because patients with bulimia nervosa are at risk for electrolyte imbalances and cardiac issues due to purging behaviors. Monitoring electrolyte levels and cardiac function is crucial for early detection and intervention. Option B is incorrect as it focuses on behaviors rather than potential medical complications. Option C is less critical than monitoring electrolytes and cardiac function. Option D, although important, is not as immediately critical as monitoring electrolyte levels and cardiac function in this context.