A nurse is caring for a patient with bulimia nervosa who has not eaten for 24 hours. The nurse should first:
- A. Encourage the patient to eat a full meal immediately.
- B. Assess the patient's vital signs and hydration status.
- C. Provide the patient with a menu to select food for the next meal.
- D. Contact the physician for a medication prescription.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because assessing vital signs and hydration status is crucial in identifying potential complications from prolonged fasting in a patient with bulimia nervosa. This step helps determine the patient's immediate needs for intervention and guides further care planning. Encouraging the patient to eat a full meal immediately (Choice A) may lead to refeeding syndrome due to electrolyte imbalances. Providing a menu for the next meal (Choice C) is not the priority when the patient has not eaten for 24 hours. Contacting the physician for a medication prescription (Choice D) is not necessary at this point without first assessing the patient's current physical status.
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An appropriate outcome for a patient with a personality disorder and a nursing diagnosis of Ineffective coping as evidenced by use of manipulation would be that the patient will:
- A. refrain from manipulative behavior at all times
- B. use manipulation only to get legitimate needs met
- C. acknowledge manipulative behavior when it is pointed out
- D. identify when he is experiencing feelings of anger
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Choice C is correct as it focuses on the patient acknowledging manipulative behavior when pointed out. This is important for growth and self-awareness in handling emotions and behaviors effectively. Choices A and B are extreme and unrealistic expectations, as complete cessation or selective use of manipulation may not be achievable. Choice D is irrelevant to the nursing diagnosis and does not address the core issue of ineffective coping through manipulation.
A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. What is the most important intervention during the refeeding phase?
- A. Monitor weight gain and provide a structured meal plan.
- B. Encourage the patient to eat independently without supervision.
- C. Focus on psychological therapy to address emotional issues.
- D. Offer the patient high-calorie, high-fat foods to increase intake.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because during the refeeding phase of anorexia nervosa, monitoring weight gain and providing a structured meal plan are crucial to prevent refeeding syndrome and ensure a safe and gradual increase in caloric intake. This approach helps prevent complications such as electrolyte imbalances and organ dysfunction. Encouraging the patient to eat independently without supervision (B) can be harmful as they may not consume adequate or balanced nutrition. Psychological therapy (C) is important but not the most crucial during the refeeding phase. Offering high-calorie, high-fat foods (D) can lead to rapid weight gain and further complications.
A nurse assesses an elderly patient. The nurse should complete the Geriatric Depression Scale if the patient answers which question affirmatively.
- A. Would you say your mood is often sad?
- B. Are you having any trouble with your memory?
- C. Have you noticed an increase in your alcohol use?
- D. Do you often experience moderate to severe pain?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because assessing the patient's mood is crucial in detecting depression in the elderly. Depression is common in older adults and can often go undiagnosed. By asking about their mood, the nurse can identify potential signs of depression early on. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to assessing depression. Memory issues (B) may indicate cognitive decline, increased alcohol use (C) could suggest substance abuse, and pain (D) may signal physical health concerns, but they are not specific indicators of depression in the elderly.
The nurse caring for a school-age child who has been sexually abused by a close family member realizes that the child may resist disclosing the experience of being sexually abused because the child:
- A. Realizes that repeated questioning by others will occur
- B. Fears being blamed or disbelieved
- C. Fears becoming an object of pity at school
- D. Is embarrassed about facing family members
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fears being blamed or disbelieved. This is because children who have been sexually abused often fear that they will not be believed or may be blamed for what happened. This fear can prevent them from disclosing the abuse. Choice A is incorrect because repeated questioning may not be the primary reason for the child's resistance. Choice C is incorrect because the child's fear of being pitied at school is not typically a main concern when disclosing sexual abuse. Choice D is incorrect because embarrassment about facing family members may be a factor, but the fear of blame or disbelief is usually a more significant barrier to disclosure in cases of sexual abuse.
Which intervention would be the best initial approach for a nurse to take when a young adult patient is verbally abusive?
- A. Ask the patient to define 'verbally abusive language.'
- B. Provide the patient with examples of assertive communication.
- C. Identify the patient's verbal abuse in order to set standards for future dialogue.
- D. Remove privileges from the patient until communications show less aggression.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct initial approach is to identify the patient's verbal abuse to set standards for future dialogue. This approach addresses the behavior directly, establishes boundaries, and communicates expectations for respectful communication. Asking the patient to define 'verbally abusive language' (choice A) may not effectively address the current behavior. Providing examples of assertive communication (choice B) may not directly address the abusive behavior. Removing privileges (choice D) may escalate the situation and is not a constructive communication strategy. By identifying the patient's verbal abuse, the nurse can address the behavior effectively and work towards a respectful and therapeutic relationship.