Quizlet HESI Mental Health Related

Review Quizlet HESI Mental Health related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a client who has schizophrenia and is exhibiting symptoms of paranoia. Which behavior would the nurse most likely observe?

  • A. The client is seen as unmotivated and withdrawn.
  • B. The client is preoccupied with a fear of being harmed.
  • C. The client displays a blunted affect and lacks emotional response.
  • D. The client avoids group activities and shows decreased appetite.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In clients with paranoia, they typically exhibit an intense fear of being harmed, persecuted, or targeted by others. This fear often dominates their thoughts and can significantly impact their daily functioning and interactions. Choice A, being unmotivated and withdrawn, is more indicative of negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as avolition and social withdrawal. Choice C, displaying a blunted affect and lacking emotional response, is associated with flat affect, a symptom commonly seen in schizophrenia but not specific to paranoia. Choice D, avoiding group activities and showing decreased appetite, may be related to various symptoms or side effects, but it is not a defining characteristic of paranoia in schizophrenia.