ATI RN Mental Health Asn Related

Review ATI RN Mental Health Asn related questions and content

A nurse is assessing a client who has schizophrenia. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a negative symptom?

  • A. Delusions
  • B. Hallucinations
  • C. Social withdrawal
  • D. Agitation
  • E. Flat affect
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Social withdrawal. Negative symptoms in schizophrenia involve the absence or reduction of normal behaviors or functions. Social withdrawal is a common negative symptom, characterized by the client's lack of interest in social interactions. Delusions (A) and hallucinations (B) are positive symptoms, involving the presence of abnormal behaviors or perceptions. Agitation (D) is a symptom of increased motor activity, not a negative symptom. Flat affect (E) refers to a lack of emotional expression, which is also a negative symptom. In summary, social withdrawal aligns with the definition of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, making it the correct answer.