In dissociative identity disorder, a patient exhibits different personalities, each with distinct behaviors and memories. The nurse recognizes that this fragmentation of identity serves as a coping mechanism for:
- A. Current stressors
- B. Developmental issues
- C. Traumatic experiences
- D. Family dynamics
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In dissociative identity disorder, the fragmentation of identity serves as a coping mechanism for traumatic experiences. Individuals may develop different identities to help them manage and cope with overwhelming and traumatic events from their past. These distinct personalities often emerge as a way to protect the individual from the emotional pain associated with their traumatic experiences. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because dissociative identity disorder is primarily associated with coping mechanisms related to past traumatic experiences, rather than current stressors, developmental issues, or family dynamics.
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When working with a patient diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which therapeutic approach is most appropriate?
- A. Encouraging the patient to avoid discussing the traumatic event.
- B. Using exposure therapy to help the patient confront their fears.
- C. Advising the patient to focus on positive thoughts.
- D. Suggesting that the patient keep busy to distract from traumatic memories.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Exposure therapy is an evidence-based treatment for PTSD that involves gradually exposing the patient to their traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment. This approach helps individuals confront and process their fears, reducing the impact of the traumatic event over time. Avoiding discussing the trauma (choice A) may lead to avoidance behaviors and hinder recovery. Focusing on positive thoughts (choice C) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying trauma. Keeping busy to distract from memories (choice D) is a form of avoidance that does not help in processing the traumatic experiences. Therefore, using exposure therapy (choice B) is the most appropriate approach to effectively treat PTSD.
Which therapeutic intervention is most appropriate for a patient diagnosed with dissociative amnesia?
- A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- B. Hypnotherapy
- C. Electroconvulsive therapy
- D. Pharmacotherapy
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hypnotherapy is the most appropriate therapeutic intervention for a patient diagnosed with dissociative amnesia. This approach aims to help the patient recover lost memories in a controlled environment, allowing them to process and integrate their memories effectively. Hypnotherapy can assist in uncovering and addressing the underlying issues contributing to dissociative amnesia. Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on changing negative patterns of thinking or behavior and may not directly address memory recovery. Electroconvulsive therapy is typically used for severe depression or certain mental disorders, not dissociative amnesia. Pharmacotherapy involves medication and is not the primary intervention for dissociative amnesia.
A patient with social anxiety disorder is starting cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which statement by the nurse best explains the purpose of this therapy?
- A. CBT will help you understand and change your thought patterns.
- B. CBT will focus on exploring your childhood experiences.
- C. CBT will teach you relaxation techniques to use in social situations.
- D. CBT will help you avoid situations that cause anxiety.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy that aims to help patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. By understanding and altering these patterns, individuals can learn to manage and alleviate their symptoms effectively. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the purpose of CBT for social anxiety disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. B is incorrect because while childhood experiences may be explored, the primary focus of CBT is on thought patterns and behaviors in the present. C is incorrect because although relaxation techniques may be a component of CBT, the primary goal is not just to teach relaxation but to address underlying cognitive and behavioral patterns. D is incorrect because the goal of CBT is not avoidance but rather to confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations.
A patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is under the care of a nurse. Which intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Encourage the patient to suppress their compulsive behaviors.
- B. Allow the patient to perform their rituals, then gradually limit the time spent on these rituals.
- C. Discourage the patient from discussing their obsessions.
- D. Avoid setting limits on the patient's compulsive behaviors.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In managing a patient with OCD, it is crucial to allow them to perform their rituals while gradually limiting the time spent on these rituals. This approach helps the patient feel supported while working towards reducing the compulsive behaviors. Choice A is incorrect because suppressing compulsive behaviors can increase anxiety and distress. Choice C is inappropriate as discussing obsessions is part of therapy. Choice D is not recommended as setting limits on compulsive behaviors is essential for treatment.
Which intervention should a healthcare professional implement to help a patient with social anxiety disorder?
- A. Encourage participation in group therapy sessions.
- B. Suggest practicing relaxation techniques during social interactions.
- C. Advise the patient to avoid social situations that cause anxiety.
- D. Teach the patient cognitive restructuring techniques.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Teaching cognitive restructuring techniques is an effective intervention for patients with social anxiety disorder. This approach helps individuals challenge and change their negative thought patterns, leading to improved coping mechanisms in social situations. Choice A, encouraging participation in group therapy sessions, may be overwhelming for individuals with social anxiety. Choice B, suggesting relaxation techniques, may offer short-term relief but does not address the underlying cognitive distortions. Choice C, advising avoidance of social situations, reinforces avoidance behaviors and does not promote long-term improvement in managing social anxiety.