In schizophrenia, a patient is experiencing negative symptoms. Which of the following is a negative symptom?
- A. Hallucinations
- B. Delusions
- C. Apathy
- D. Disorganized speech
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Apathy. Negative symptoms in schizophrenia refer to the absence or reduction of normal behaviors or functions. Apathy is a common negative symptom characterized by a lack of interest, motivation, or emotion. Hallucinations (A) and delusions (B) are positive symptoms, involving distortions of perception or belief. Disorganized speech (D) is a symptom of disorganized thinking, which is also a positive symptom in schizophrenia. Thus, apathy best aligns with the concept of negative symptoms in schizophrenia.
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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 is experiencing a manic episode. Which intervention is most effective?
- A. Encouraging the patient to participate in group activities
- B. Providing a low-stimulation environment
- C. Allowing the patient to move freely around the unit
- D. Engaging the patient in competitive games
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a low-stimulation environment. This is effective because it helps reduce excessive sensory input which can trigger or exacerbate manic symptoms. Manic patients are often sensitive to stimuli, so a calm and quiet environment can help in de-escalating their agitation and hyperactivity.
A: Encouraging group activities can be overwhelming for a manic patient due to the increased stimulation and potential for overstimulation.
C: Allowing free movement may lead to risky behaviors or agitation, as the patient may not be able to self-regulate effectively.
D: Engaging in competitive games can escalate the manic symptoms and potentially lead to aggressive or impulsive behaviors.
In summary, providing a low-stimulation environment is the most effective intervention as it helps manage manic symptoms by reducing triggers and promoting a sense of calm.
Which therapeutic communication technique is being used when the nurse says, 'Tell me more about what you are feeling right now'?
- A. Restating
- B. Clarification
- C. Reflection
- D. Exploration
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Exploration. This therapeutic communication technique encourages the patient to expand on their feelings, promoting exploration of thoughts and emotions. By asking the patient to elaborate on their feelings, the nurse facilitates deeper understanding. Restating (A) involves repeating the patient's words back to them. Clarification (B) is seeking to understand the patient's meaning. Reflection (C) involves mirroring the patient's emotions. In this scenario, the nurse is prompting the patient to delve further into their emotions, making exploration the most appropriate technique.
A patient with bipolar disorder is prescribed lithium. What is a common side effect the nurse should monitor for?
- A. Increased energy
- B. Constipation
- C. Weight gain
- D. Dry mouth
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Weight gain. Lithium is known to cause weight gain as a common side effect in patients with bipolar disorder. This is due to its impact on the body's metabolism and hormonal balance. Monitoring for weight changes is crucial as it can affect the patient's overall health and well-being. Increased energy (A) is not a common side effect of lithium and can be a sign of hypomania or mania in bipolar disorder. Constipation (B) and dry mouth (D) are possible side effects of some medications, but they are not typically associated with lithium.
Which intervention is most appropriate for a patient experiencing a severe manic episode?
- A. Providing a structured and low-stimulation environment
- B. Encouraging the patient to engage in group activities
- C. Providing detailed information about the patient's condition
- D. Allowing the patient to have unsupervised time
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a structured and low-stimulation environment can help reduce the intensity of the manic episode by providing predictability and minimizing triggers. This intervention promotes safety and stability for the patient. Option B may exacerbate the symptoms by overstimulating the patient. Option C may overwhelm the patient with information during a manic episode. Option D is risky as unsupervised time can lead to impulsive behaviors and potential harm.