A psychiatric nurse observes that a client diagnosed with schizophrenia is pacing up and down the corridor. The client is muttering to himself, and his hands are trembling. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- A. Ask the client if he is hearing voices.
- B. Offer the client a PRN medication for anxiety.
- C. Encourage the client to participate in a relaxation exercise.
- D. Remove the client to a quieter environment.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The first action the nurse should take is to remove the client to a quieter environment. This intervention aims to reduce stimuli that may be contributing to the client's agitation and help create a calmer and more supportive setting for the client. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority in this situation as addressing the environmental factors should come first before exploring symptoms, offering medication, or engaging in relaxation exercises.
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Which is a correct evaluation of the new psychiatric nurse's statement regarding a client's use of defense mechanisms?
- A. Defense mechanisms can be self-protective responses to stress and need not be eliminated.
- B. Defense mechanisms are a maladaptive attempt by the ego to manage anxiety and should always be eliminated.
- C. Defense mechanisms, used by individuals with weak ego integrity, should be discouraged but not eliminated.
- D. Defense mechanisms cause disintegration of the ego and should be fostered and encouraged.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct evaluation is that defense mechanisms can be self-protective responses to stress and do not necessarily need to be eliminated. These mechanisms serve the purpose of reducing anxiety during times of stress. While some defense mechanisms may be maladaptive, they can also help individuals cope with challenging situations. It is essential for the nurse to recognize that addressing defense mechanisms should be done sensitively, as they may be crucial for the client's emotional regulation. Encouraging the development of healthy coping skills while acknowledging the role of defense mechanisms in managing stress is a balanced approach in psychiatric care. Choice B is incorrect because completely eliminating defense mechanisms is not always feasible or beneficial. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the relationship between defense mechanisms and ego integrity. Choice D is incorrect as it misrepresents the role of defense mechanisms in ego functions.
A client has been prescribed lorazepam (Ativan) for the treatment of anxiety. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- B. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
- C. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
- D. Double the dose if you miss a dose.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because lorazepam (Ativan) can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so the client should avoid driving until they know how the medication affects them. This instruction is crucial for ensuring the client's safety and preventing any potential accidents or harm. Choice A is incorrect because lorazepam does not necessarily need to be taken with food. Choice C is incorrect as it contradicts the usual recommendation of taking lorazepam with or without food. Choice D is incorrect and dangerous advice as doubling the dose of lorazepam can lead to overdose and serious complications.
A client has been prescribed escitalopram (Lexapro) for depression. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Take the medication at bedtime to prevent daytime drowsiness.
- B. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
- C. Take the medication with food to prevent stomach upset.
- D. Discontinue the medication if you start feeling better.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching is to advise the client to avoid consuming alcohol while taking escitalopram (Lexapro). Alcohol can potentiate side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness when combined with this medication. Choice A is incorrect because escitalopram is usually taken in the morning due to its potential to cause insomnia if taken at bedtime. Choice C is incorrect because taking the medication with or without food does not significantly affect its absorption or side effects. Choice D is incorrect because it is essential for the client to continue taking the medication even if they start feeling better, as abruptly stopping an antidepressant can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a relapse of depression.
A client has been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse expect?
- A. Perfectionism
- B. Flexibility
- C. Generosity
- D. Spontaneity
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Individuals with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder commonly exhibit perfectionism, a need for orderliness, and a preoccupation with details. This behavior often interferes with task completion and can impact interpersonal relationships. Choice A is correct because perfectionism is a key characteristic of this disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because individuals with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder typically lack flexibility, may not display generosity, and tend to avoid spontaneity.
A client is being assessed by a nurse after being diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
- A. Weight gain and increased appetite
- B. Lanugo on the face and back
- C. Increased body temperature and tachycardia
- D. Hyperactivity and distractibility
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In anorexia nervosa, individuals often develop lanugo, fine soft hair, on the face and back. This is a physiological response to the body's attempt to conserve heat due to a lack of subcutaneous fat. It is a common physical finding in clients with anorexia nervosa and can be a sign of severe malnutrition. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because weight gain and increased appetite, increased body temperature and tachycardia, and hyperactivity and distractibility are not typically associated with anorexia nervosa. In fact, weight loss, decreased appetite, hypothermia, and bradycardia are more commonly seen in individuals with anorexia nervosa.