A patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is experiencing flashbacks. What is the best initial intervention?
- A. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers
- B. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings
- C. Providing the patient with relaxation techniques
- D. Advising the patient to avoid social situations
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct initial intervention for a patient with PTSD experiencing flashbacks is providing relaxation techniques (Choice C). This is because relaxation techniques can help the patient cope with the distressing symptoms and manage their anxiety levels during flashbacks. Encouraging the patient to avoid triggers (Choice A) may provide temporary relief but does not address the root cause of the flashbacks. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings (Choice B) may be beneficial in the long run but may not be the best initial intervention during a flashback. Advising the patient to avoid social situations (Choice D) can lead to isolation and may not address the immediate distress caused by the flashbacks.
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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 schizophrenia is being educated about the significance of medication adherence. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding?
- A. I will take my medication only when I feel symptoms returning.
- B. I understand that taking my medication regularly is important to manage my symptoms.
- C. I can stop taking my medication once I feel better.
- D. I should take my medication on an as-needed basis.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates an understanding that medication adherence is vital for managing schizophrenia symptoms. Taking medication regularly helps maintain stability and prevent symptom recurrence. Choice A indicates inconsistent medication use, C suggests premature discontinuation, and D implies erratic dosing. Overall, choice B aligns with evidence-based treatment guidelines for schizophrenia.
Which of the following is an example of a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) technique?
- A. Free association
- B. Thought stopping
- C. Dream analysis
- D. Systematic desensitization
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Thought stopping. In CBT, thought stopping is a technique used to interrupt and replace negative or intrusive thoughts. Here's why it's correct: 1. It helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns. 2. It teaches clients to stop negative thoughts in their tracks. 3. It encourages the use of positive affirmations or coping statements. Other choices are incorrect: A: Free association is a psychoanalytic technique, not a CBT technique. C: Dream analysis is also associated with psychoanalytic therapy. D: Systematic desensitization is a behavioral therapy technique used in exposure therapy, not CBT.
What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
- A. Encouraging the patient to focus on deep breathing exercises.
- B. Encouraging the patient to avoid any physical activity.
- C. Asking the patient to describe their feelings in detail.
- D. Providing the patient with detailed information about panic attacks.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because focusing on deep breathing exercises helps the patient regulate their breathing and reduce hyperventilation during a panic attack. This intervention promotes relaxation and helps calm the patient down. Encouraging avoidance of physical activity (B) is incorrect as it does not address the immediate physiological symptoms of a panic attack. Asking the patient to describe their feelings (C) may be helpful for assessment but does not directly address the urgent need to manage the panic attack. Providing detailed information about panic attacks (D) is important for education but is not the priority during an active panic attack.
A healthcare provider is developing a care plan for a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which intervention should be included to help the patient manage flashbacks?
- A. Encouraging the patient to confront the trauma directly.
- B. Teaching the patient grounding techniques.
- C. Encouraging the patient to use relaxation techniques.
- D. Helping the patient develop a safety plan.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Teaching the patient grounding techniques. Grounding techniques help individuals with PTSD manage flashbacks by bringing their focus back to the present moment and reality. This can include techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and using the five senses to connect with the environment. Encouraging the patient to confront the trauma directly (A) can be overwhelming and retraumatizing. Relaxation techniques (C) may not be effective during a flashback when the individual is in a hyperaroused state. Developing a safety plan (D) is important but is more focused on preventing future crises rather than managing flashbacks in the moment.