Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Related

Review Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions related questions and content

A family member is seeking advice about an elderly parent who seems to worry unnecessarily about everything. The family member states, Should I seek psychiatric help for my mother? Which is an appropriate nursing reply?

  • A. My mother also worries unnecessarily. I think it is part of the aging process.
  • B. Anxiety is considered abnormal when it is out of proportion to the stimulus causing it and when it impairs functioning.
  • C. From what you have told me, you should get her to a psychiatrist as soon as possible.
  • D. Anxiety is a complex phenomenon and is effectively treated only with psychotropic medications.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it provides a clear and accurate explanation of when anxiety is considered abnormal. It states that anxiety is abnormal when it is out of proportion to the stimulus causing it and when it impairs functioning. This response shows understanding of the situation and suggests seeking professional help based on specific criteria.

Choice A is incorrect as it dismisses the concerns as part of the aging process without addressing the possibility of abnormal anxiety. Choice C is incorrect as it jumps to the conclusion of seeking psychiatric help without evaluating the level of anxiety or impairment. Choice D is incorrect as it oversimplifies anxiety treatment by suggesting it can only be treated with medications, ignoring the importance of therapy and other interventions.