Nokea
A healthcare professional is assessing a patient with anorexia nervosa. Which finding is most concerning?
- A. Mild bradycardia
- B. Electrolyte imbalances
- C. Slight hypotension
- D. Lanugo
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Electrolyte imbalances. In anorexia nervosa, electrolyte imbalances can lead to serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias and even sudden death. This is the most concerning finding as it directly impacts the patient's health and can be life-threatening. Bradycardia (choice A) is common in anorexia but usually reversible with treatment. Slight hypotension (choice C) may occur due to dehydration but can be managed. Lanugo (choice D) is a reversible side effect of malnutrition and not as concerning as electrolyte imbalances.
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A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the medication?
- A. I should take this medication at the same time every day.
- B. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
- C. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- D. I should take this medication on an as-needed basis.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
1. Consistency in medication timing helps maintain a steady blood level for effectiveness.
2. Following a regular schedule improves adherence and reduces the risk of missing doses.
3. Ensures optimal therapeutic effects and minimizes potential side effects.
4. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as stopping abruptly, mixing with alcohol, or taking as needed can lead to relapse, reduced efficacy, or increased risk of side effects.
A patient with panic disorder is prescribed alprazolam. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan?
- A. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
- B. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- C. Take the medication at bedtime to help with sleep.
- D. Increase the dose if you do not feel better in a few days.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you. This is crucial because alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. It is important to prioritize safety and prevent accidents. Choice B is incorrect as alprazolam does not necessarily need to be taken with food. Choice C is incorrect as alprazolam is typically taken during the day due to its sedative effects. Choice D is incorrect as increasing the dose without medical guidance can lead to overdose and adverse effects.
When assessing a patient with major depressive disorder, which of the following is a common cognitive symptom?
- A. Hallucinations
- B. Delusions
- C. Lack of appetite
- D. Negative self-talk
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Negative self-talk. In major depressive disorder, negative self-talk is a common cognitive symptom known as cognitive distortions. This includes thoughts of worthlessness, guilt, or self-criticism. This symptom is a key aspect of the cognitive triad in depression. Hallucinations and delusions are more indicative of psychotic disorders, while lack of appetite is a physical symptom commonly seen in depression but not a cognitive symptom. In summary, negative self-talk is the correct answer as it directly relates to the cognitive distortions commonly seen in major depressive disorder.
When discharging a patient with schizophrenia on risperidone, what is an important point to include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Avoiding foods high in tyramine is essential.
- B. Getting blood levels checked regularly is necessary.
- C. Being cautious when driving due to possible drowsiness is crucial.
- D. Taking this medication on an as-needed basis is recommended.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Getting blood levels checked regularly is necessary. This is important because risperidone is a medication that requires monitoring of blood levels to ensure it is within the therapeutic range for effectiveness and to prevent side effects. Regular monitoring helps to adjust the dosage if needed.
Choice A is incorrect because foods high in tyramine are a concern when taking MAOIs, not risperidone. Choice C is incorrect because drowsiness is a common side effect initially, but it may improve over time and caution while driving should be based on individual response. Choice D is incorrect because risperidone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis; it should be taken consistently to maintain stability in treating schizophrenia.
A patient with major depressive disorder is started on fluoxetine. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Increased appetite
- C. Nausea
- D. Dry mouth
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Nausea. Fluoxetine, an SSRI antidepressant, commonly causes gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea. This is due to its effect on serotonin levels in the gut. Weight gain (A) and increased appetite (B) are less common side effects of fluoxetine. Dry mouth (D) is more commonly associated with tricyclic antidepressants, not SSRIs. Monitoring for nausea is crucial to ensure patient compliance and well-being.