A client is experiencing progressive changes in memory that have interfered with personal, social, and occupational functioning. The client exhibits poor judgment and has a short attention span. The nurse recognizes these as classic signs of which condition?
- A. Delirium
- B. Mania
- C. Parkinsonism
- D. Alzheimer's
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The client's presentation of progressive memory changes, poor judgment, and attention deficits align with classic signs of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline that significantly impacts daily functioning. While delirium and mania may present with cognitive changes, Alzheimer's is specifically associated with progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment over time.
You may also like to solve these questions
Which medication would the nurse least likely use to provide immediate intervention for an angry psychotic client?
- A. Lithium
- B. Alprazolam
- C. Diphenhydramine
- D. Haloperidol
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety disorders. While it may help calm an individual, it is not typically the first-line choice for managing acute agitation in a psychotic client. Haloperidol, on the other hand, is a typical antipsychotic medication often used for immediate intervention in psychiatric emergencies involving aggression or psychosis.
During a treatment team meeting, the point is made that a client with schizophrenia has recovered from the acute psychosis but continues to demonstrate apathy, avolition, and blunted affect. The nurse who relates these symptoms to serotonin excess will suggest that the client receive?
- A. Chlorpromazine
- B. Phenelzine
- C. Haloperidol
- D. Olanzapine
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the symptoms of apathy, avolition, and blunted affect are indicative of negative symptoms commonly seen in schizophrenia. These symptoms are often associated with dopamine and serotonin imbalances in the brain. Olanzapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is known for its efficacy in treating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. It acts by blocking serotonin and dopamine receptors, helping to alleviate the symptoms mentioned. Chlorpromazine and Haloperidol are typical antipsychotics that primarily target dopamine receptors, while Phenelzine is an MAOI used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, not schizophrenia. Therefore, the most appropriate choice for this client displaying these symptoms related to serotonin excess would be Olanzapine.
A client has been taking lithium for several years with good symptom control. The client presents in the emergency department with blurred vision, tinnitus, and severe diarrhea. Which lithium level should the nurse correlate with these symptoms?
- A. 3.7
- B. 1.7
- C. 2.6
- D. 1.3
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Symptoms such as blurred vision, tinnitus, and severe diarrhea are indicative of lithium toxicity. A lithium level of 1.7 is within the toxic range. When clients present with these symptoms, it is crucial for the nurse to correlate them with elevated lithium levels to ensure timely intervention and prevent further complications.
After 1 week of continuous mental confusion, an elderly African American client is
admitted with a preliminary diagnosis of a neurocognitive disorder due to dementia.
Which statement would cause the nurse to question this diagnosis?
- A. There has been no triiodothyronine or thyroxine level evaluation ordered
- B. Neurocognitive disorders do not typically occur in African American clients
- C. The symptoms presented are more indicative of parkinsonism
- D. Dementia does not develop suddenly
Correct Answer: D
Rationale:
In a center for women who have been abused, which intervention would the nurse use for a woman whose husband has been abusing her for several years?
- A. Often times you don't need help, you just need to know when to go
- B. Under these circumstances, leaving your husband is the decision to make
- C. This must be very painful for you. We are here to help you
- D. Let's talk about your strengths. You have them, but sometimes they get lost in pain
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Choice C is the most appropriate intervention when working with a woman who has been abused by her husband. It acknowledges the woman's pain, expresses empathy, and offers support, creating a safe space for her to open up and seek help. This response shows understanding and compassion, which are crucial when dealing with individuals experiencing abuse.