A client is experiencing progressive changes in memory that have interfered with personal, social, and occupational functioning. The client exhibits poor judgment and has a short attention span. The nurse recognizes these as classic signs of which condition?
- A. Delirium
- B. Mania
- C. Parkinsonism
- D. Alzheimer's
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The client's presentation of progressive memory changes, poor judgment, and attention deficits align with classic signs of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline that significantly impacts daily functioning. While delirium and mania may present with cognitive changes, Alzheimer's is specifically associated with progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment over time.
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A nursing instructor is teaching a group of students about intimate partner violence. Which response by the students indicates no further teaching is needed?
- A. Alaska Native women report the highest rate of intimate partner violence.
- B. Caucasian women report the lowest rate of intimate partner violence.
- C. African American women report the highest rate of intimate partner violence.
- D. Asian women report the lowest rate of intimate partner violence.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alaska Native women do report the highest rate of intimate partner violence. This statistic is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of to provide culturally sensitive care and interventions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect statements. While it is essential to understand disparities in intimate partner violence rates among different populations, in this context, the focus is on recognizing the accurate information provided about Alaska Native women.
After 1 week of continuous mental confusion, an elderly African American client is
admitted with a preliminary diagnosis of a neurocognitive disorder due to dementia.
Which statement would cause the nurse to question this diagnosis?
- A. There has been no triiodothyronine or thyroxine level evaluation ordered
- B. Neurocognitive disorders do not typically occur in African American clients
- C. The symptoms presented are more indicative of parkinsonism
- D. Dementia does not develop suddenly
Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
A client has been taking lithium for several years with good symptom control. The client presents in the emergency department with blurred vision, tinnitus, and severe diarrhea. Which lithium level should the nurse correlate with these symptoms?
- A. 3.7
- B. 1.7
- C. 2.6
- D. 1.3
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Symptoms such as blurred vision, tinnitus, and severe diarrhea are indicative of lithium toxicity. A lithium level of 1.7 is within the toxic range. When clients present with these symptoms, it is crucial for the nurse to correlate them with elevated lithium levels to ensure timely intervention and prevent further complications.
Which medication would the nurse least likely use to provide immediate intervention for an angry psychotic client?
- A. Lithium
- B. Alprazolam
- C. Diphenhydramine
- D. Haloperidol
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety disorders. While it may help calm an individual, it is not typically the first-line choice for managing acute agitation in a psychotic client. Haloperidol, on the other hand, is a typical antipsychotic medication often used for immediate intervention in psychiatric emergencies involving aggression or psychosis.
A client is diagnosed with somatic symptom disorder. Which question will help the nurse develop nursing diagnoses for this client's plan of care?
- A. Are you satisfied with your appearance?
- B. Do you take medication for anxiety as prescribed?
- C. When did you last feel detached from your environment?
- D. How long have you had these memory problems?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In clients with somatic symptom disorder, it is crucial to assess their adherence to medication for anxiety as prescribed. This question helps the nurse understand the client's treatment compliance, which can impact the development of nursing diagnoses and the overall plan of care. Monitoring medication adherence is essential in managing the client's symptoms and improving outcomes.