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A client with a borderline personality disorder tells the nurse, 'My doctor tells me there's something wrong with the hard wiring of my brain, and that's why I'm so impulsive and get so many mood swings. He said he's going to prescribe some medication.' Being aware of current practice guidelines, the nurse will prepare a teaching plan for:
- A. Lithium
- B. Fluoxetine
- C. Lorazepam
- D. Haloperidol
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fluoxetine. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is primarily treated with psychotherapy, but in some cases, medication is used to manage symptoms like impulsivity and mood swings. Fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is commonly used to address mood instability and impulsivity in BPD. SSRIs help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood stability and decrease impulsive behaviors. Lithium (choice A) is used for bipolar disorder, not BPD. Lorazepam (choice C) is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety and not typically recommended for BPD. Haloperidol (choice D) is an antipsychotic used for conditions like schizophrenia and not typically indicated for BPD.
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A psychotic patient is delusional and has auditory hallucinations. The best statement to make when approaching the patient with an oral electronic thermometer would be:
- A. I need your vital signs. Put this in your mouth. This will not hurt.'
- B. I hope I can count on you to hold still while I take your temperature.'
- C. Please sit here while I take your temperature. I'll put the thermometer under your tongue for a few seconds.'
- D. This probe is only a thermometer that will tell us whether you have a fever. It will be all over in just a few seconds.'
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it uses clear, simple language to explain the procedure to the patient. It acknowledges the patient's delusions by asking them to sit and calmly states the thermometer will be placed under their tongue. This approach is likely to minimize the patient's anxiety and increase cooperation.
Option A is incorrect as it may cause the patient to feel apprehensive due to the mention of "hurt." Option B is incorrect because it does not provide specific instructions about the procedure, which may lead to confusion for the patient. Option D is incorrect as it does not address the patient's delusions or provide clear instructions, potentially leading to increased resistance from the patient.
Which aspect of assessment has priority when a nurse interviews a rape victim?
- A. Coping mechanisms the patient is using
- B. The patient's previous sexual experiences
- C. Adequacy of the patient's interpersonal relationships
- D. Whether the patient has ever had a sexually transmitted disease
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Coping mechanisms the patient is using. This aspect has priority because it helps the nurse assess the immediate emotional and psychological impact of the trauma on the victim. Understanding coping mechanisms can guide the nurse in providing appropriate support and interventions. Choice B is incorrect as past sexual experiences are not as pertinent during the immediate assessment of a rape victim. Choice C is incorrect as assessing interpersonal relationships may not be a priority during the initial interview. Choice D is incorrect as the presence of a sexually transmitted disease is not the primary concern when assessing a rape victim.
When a patient diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia was discharged from the unit 6 months ago, the plan was for him to take chlorpromazine (Thorazine), a conventional (first generation) antipsychotic medication, 300 mg po daily. He tells the nurse he stopped taking his pills after a few months because they made him feel like a 'zombie.' What other common side effects should the nurse determine if the patient experienced?
- A. Sweating, nausea, and weight gain
- B. Sedation, tremor, and muscle stiffness
- C. Headache, watery eyes, and runny nose
- D. Mild fever, sore throat, and skin rash
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sedation, tremor, and muscle stiffness. These side effects are commonly associated with conventional antipsychotic medications like chlorpromazine. Sedation is a common side effect that can make the patient feel drowsy or sluggish. Tremors are involuntary muscle movements that can affect the hands, arms, or legs. Muscle stiffness can cause rigidity and difficulty moving smoothly. These side effects are known to impact the quality of life and may contribute to the patient feeling like a 'zombie.'
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the common side effects of conventional antipsychotic medications. Sweating, nausea, and weight gain (Choice A) are not typical side effects of chlorpromazine. Headache, watery eyes, and runny nose (Choice C) are more commonly associated with allergies or cold symptoms rather than antipsychotic medications. Mild fever, sore throat, and skin rash (Choice D)
What is the primary concern when caring for a patient with bulimia nervosa who has been purging regularly?
- A. Managing the patient's weight gain.
- B. Assessing for complications related to electrolyte imbalances.
- C. Encouraging exercise to offset caloric intake.
- D. Promoting food restriction to control binge eating.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assessing for complications related to electrolyte imbalances. This is the primary concern when caring for a patient with bulimia nervosa who has been purging regularly because purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse, can lead to severe electrolyte imbalances which can be life-threatening. Electrolyte imbalances can result in cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other serious complications. Managing weight gain (A), encouraging exercise (C), and promoting food restriction (D) are not appropriate approaches as they can exacerbate the patient's unhealthy behaviors and may worsen their condition. It is crucial to prioritize assessing and addressing electrolyte imbalances to ensure the patient's safety and well-being.
A patient with schizophrenia tells the nurse, 'Everyone must listen to me. I am the redeemer. I will bring peace to the world.' From this the nurse can determine that an appropriate nursing diagnosis is:
- A. Disturbed sensory perception: auditory.
- B. Risk for other-directed violence.
- C. Chronic low self-esteem.
- D. Nonadherence: medication.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: The patient's statement indicates grandiosity and delusions of grandeur, common in schizophrenia.
Step 2: Chronic low self-esteem is a common nursing diagnosis for those with grandiose delusions.
Step 3: The patient's belief of being the redeemer suggests underlying feelings of inadequacy.
Step 4: Addressing self-esteem can help the patient cope with such delusions.
Summary: A is incorrect as there is no mention of auditory hallucinations. B is incorrect as there is no immediate threat of violence. D is incorrect as nonadherence to medication is not evident in the scenario.