An unemployed college graduate is experiencing severe anxiety over not finding a teaching position and has difficulty with independent problem-solving. During a routine physical examination, the graduate confides in the clinic nurse. Which is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
- A. Encourage the graduate to use alternative coping mechanisms such as relaxation exercises.
- B. Complete the problem-solving process for the graduate.
- C. Work through the problem-solving process with the graduate.
- D. Encourage the graduate to keep a journal.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In situations where a client is experiencing severe anxiety and struggles with independent problem-solving, it is essential for the nurse to work through the problem-solving process together with the client. By doing so, the nurse can provide support and guidance to help the client navigate through their challenges effectively. Choice A is not the most appropriate as just encouraging alternative coping mechanisms may not address the root of the problem. Choice B of completing the problem-solving process for the graduate does not promote independence or skill development. Choice D of encouraging the graduate to keep a journal may be helpful but does not directly address the need for assistance in problem-solving during heightened anxiety.
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During an assessment of a client with suspected substance use disorder, which of the following findings should the nurse expect? Select one that doesn't apply.
- A. Feelings of hopelessness
- B. Increased tolerance to the substance
- C. Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
- D. Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In clients with substance use disorder, common findings include increased tolerance to the substance, withdrawal symptoms when not using it, and unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use. Feelings of hopelessness are not typically a direct manifestation of substance use disorder. Instead, feelings of hopelessness may be associated with other mental health conditions or situational factors. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choices B, C, and D are all expected findings in clients with substance use disorder.
A client who experiences stress on a regular basis asks a nurse what causes these feelings. Which is the most appropriate nursing response?
- A. Genetics have no influence on your temperament.
- B. How you reacted to past experiences influences how you feel now.
- C. Maintaining good physical health always keeps stress levels low.
- D. Stress can be avoided by using appropriate coping mechanisms.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'How you reacted to past experiences influences how you feel now.' This response is appropriate because past experiences can shape an individual's current response to stress. It acknowledges the impact of learned patterns and coping mechanisms on one's current adaptation to stressors. Choice A is incorrect because genetics can play a role in temperament to some extent. Choice C is incorrect because while physical health can contribute to stress management, it is not the sole determinant of stress levels. Choice D is incorrect as stress is not always avoidable, but coping mechanisms can help manage and reduce its impact.
A client diagnosed with schizophrenia is prescribed an antipsychotic medication. Which of the following side effects should the nurse monitor for? Select one that doesn't apply.
- A. Tardive dyskinesia
- B. Muscle tension
- C. Orthostatic hypotension
- D. Hyperglycemia
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Side effects of antipsychotic medications commonly include tardive dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension, and hyperglycemia. Muscle tension is not typically associated with antipsychotic medication use. Tardive dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary movements, orthostatic hypotension refers to a drop in blood pressure upon standing, and hyperglycemia indicates high blood sugar levels. Monitoring these side effects is crucial for early detection and management, but muscle tension is not a typical side effect of antipsychotic medications.
When a husband accuses his wife of infidelity, which situation would indicate to the nurse the husband's use of the ego defense mechanism of projection?
- A. The husband cries and stamps his feet, demanding that his wife be true to her marriage vows.
- B. The husband ignores the wife's continued absence from the home.
- C. The husband has already admitted to having an affair with a coworker.
- D. The husband takes out his marital frustrations through employee abuse.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Projection is a defense mechanism where one attributes their unacceptable feelings or impulses to another person. In this scenario, the husband, by admitting to having an affair with a coworker, is projecting his infidelity onto his wife, indicating the use of the projection defense mechanism. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a different behavior, not projection. Choice B does not demonstrate projection but rather avoidance or denial. Choice D shows displacement of aggression, not projection.
During an assessment, a client is demonstrating symptoms of moderate anxiety. Which of the following symptoms would be indicative of moderate anxiety?
- A. Fidgeting
- B. Laughing inappropriately
- C. Palpitations
- D. Nail biting
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Palpitations are a common physical symptom seen in clients experiencing moderate anxiety. Fidgeting, laughing inappropriately, and nail biting can also indicate heightened stress levels. It's important for healthcare providers to recognize these signs and provide appropriate support. While anxiety can manifest in various ways, other indicators of moderate anxiety may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance. It's crucial for healthcare providers to assess these symptoms to provide effective care and interventions. Laughing inappropriately and nail biting are more commonly associated with nervousness or social discomfort, while fidgeting may signal mild anxiety.