During an acute panic attack, which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Encourage the client to discuss their feelings
- B. Provide a calm environment
- C. Teach the client deep breathing exercises
- D. Leave the client alone to calm down
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: During an acute panic attack, the priority intervention is to create a calm and safe environment. Teaching the client deep breathing exercises is crucial as it promotes relaxation and reduces hyperventilation, helping to manage the panic attack effectively. Encouraging the client to discuss their feelings may exacerbate the panic by increasing emotional distress. Providing a busy environment can escalate stress levels rather than alleviate them. Leaving the client alone may lead to feelings of abandonment or worsen the panic attack. Therefore, the most appropriate intervention is to teach deep breathing exercises to help the client regain control and manage the panic attack.
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Which of the following are symptoms of a panic attack? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Chest pain
- B. Normal breathing
- C. Dizziness
- D. Hot flashes
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Symptoms of a panic attack can include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and hot flashes. Normal breathing is not a symptom of a panic attack; instead, individuals experiencing a panic attack may often exhibit rapid or shallow breathing patterns. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choices A, C, and D are typical symptoms associated with panic attacks, making them incorrect answers.
Which of the following are characteristics of borderline personality disorder? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Intense fear of abandonment
- B. Unstable relationships
- C. Impulsivity
- D. Grandiosity
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Borderline personality disorder is characterized by an intense fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, impulsivity, and chronic feelings of emptiness. Grandiosity, which involves an exaggerated sense of self-importance and superiority, is more commonly associated with narcissistic personality disorder rather than borderline personality disorder. Therefore, the correct answer is D.
A client has been prescribed diazepam (Valium) for the treatment of anxiety. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- B. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- C. Stop taking the medication if you feel better.
- D. Double the dose if you miss a dose.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking diazepam (Valium) as it can potentiate the sedative effects and increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. Taking the medication with food may help reduce stomach upset, but avoiding alcohol is crucial to ensure safe and effective use of diazepam. Choice B is partially correct, as taking the medication with food can indeed help with stomach upset, but it is not as crucial as avoiding alcohol. Choice C is incorrect because abruptly stopping diazepam can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should only be done under medical supervision. Choice D is incorrect as doubling the dose is dangerous and should never be done without healthcare provider approval.
A client has been prescribed fluoxetine (Prozac) for the treatment of depression. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the discharge instructions?
- A. Take the medication at bedtime to avoid daytime drowsiness.
- B. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- C. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
- D. Stop taking the medication if you feel better.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid drinking alcohol while taking fluoxetine (Prozac) because alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. It is important to follow this instruction to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication in the treatment of depression. Choice A is incorrect because fluoxetine (Prozac) is usually taken in the morning to prevent insomnia. Choice C is not a crucial instruction for this medication. Choice D is incorrect as abruptly stopping fluoxetine can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should only be done under medical supervision.
A client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is being discharged. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the discharge teaching? Select one that does not apply.
- A. Practice relaxation techniques daily
- B. Avoid caffeine and alcohol
- C. Engage in regular physical activity
- D. Use benzodiazepines as the first line of treatment
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: When discharging a client with GAD, it is important to provide instructions that promote holistic well-being and support without exacerbating the condition. Practicing relaxation techniques daily, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage anxiety symptoms effectively. These strategies focus on self-care and healthy lifestyle choices. Seeking support from friends and family also plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health. However, using benzodiazepines as the first line of treatment is not recommended due to their potential for dependence and other associated risks. Non-pharmacological interventions and therapy are usually preferred as initial approaches in managing GAD. Therefore, the option 'D: Use benzodiazepines as the first line of treatment' is incorrect and should not be included in the discharge teaching for a client with GAD.