What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient experiencing severe anxiety?
- A. Encourage the patient to talk about their anxiety.
- B. Teach the patient deep breathing exercises.
- C. Remain with the patient and provide a calm presence.
- D. Suggest the patient engage in physical activity.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When a patient is experiencing severe anxiety, remaining with the patient and providing a calm presence is the most appropriate intervention. This approach can help the patient feel supported and safe, which can help in reducing their anxiety levels. Encouraging the patient to talk about their anxiety may not be suitable during a severe anxiety episode, as it can potentially escalate their distress. Teaching deep breathing exercises can be helpful, but in cases of severe anxiety, the patient may find it challenging to focus on such techniques. Suggesting physical activity may not be suitable as the patient might not be in a state to engage in such activities when experiencing severe anxiety.
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What is a primary goal of treatment for a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?
- A. To eliminate all obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors
- B. To reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts
- C. To increase the patient's social interactions
- D. To improve the patient's sleep quality
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary goal of treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is to reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. While complete elimination of all obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors may be an ideal outcome, it is often unrealistic. Focusing on reducing the impact of these symptoms on the patient's daily life and functioning is more achievable and practical. Choices C and D are incorrect as they are not primary goals in the treatment of OCD. Increasing social interactions and improving sleep quality may be beneficial as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, but they are not the primary focus when managing OCD.
What is the primary benefit of using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating anxiety disorders?
- A. It focuses on long-term use of medications.
- B. It helps patients understand and change their thought patterns.
- C. It primarily addresses childhood traumas.
- D. It encourages patients to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary benefit of using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating anxiety disorders is that it helps patients understand and change their thought patterns. By addressing maladaptive thought processes and behaviors, CBT can effectively reduce anxiety symptoms and improve coping mechanisms. This approach empowers individuals to develop healthier responses to anxiety triggers, leading to long-lasting benefits beyond solely relying on medications or avoiding anxiety-provoking situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because CBT does not primarily focus on long-term use of medications, addressing childhood traumas, or encouraging avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations. While medications may be used in conjunction with CBT, the main focus of CBT is on cognitive restructuring and behavioral interventions to alleviate anxiety symptoms.
What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
- A. Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
- B. Provide a safe, calm environment.
- C. Administer prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
- D. Teach the patient deep breathing exercises.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack is to provide a safe, calm environment. This action is crucial as it helps reduce the patient's anxiety and creates a sense of security, which can aid in managing the panic attack effectively. Encouraging the patient to talk about their feelings, administering medication, or teaching deep breathing exercises can be beneficial interventions, but creating a safe and calm environment takes precedence in addressing the immediate needs of the patient during a panic attack.
A patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is prescribed buspirone. Which statement by the patient indicates effective understanding of the medication?
- A. I will take this medication only when I feel anxious.
- B. I should start feeling less anxious within a few days.
- C. This medication can be addictive if taken for a long time.
- D. It may take a few weeks for this medication to become effective.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because buspirone may take a few weeks to become effective in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Patients should be aware of this delay and not expect immediate relief from their symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because buspirone is typically taken regularly, not just when feeling anxious. Choice B is incorrect because the onset of action for buspirone is gradual, and patients should not expect immediate relief within a few days. Choice C is incorrect because buspirone is not considered addictive, unlike some other medications used for anxiety disorders.
What is a common side effect of benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Insomnia
- C. Drowsiness
- D. Increased appetite
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Drowsiness. Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed for anxiety, often cause drowsiness as a side effect due to their sedative properties. This can lead to impairments in cognitive and motor skills, making it important for individuals on these medications to exercise caution when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because weight gain, insomnia, and increased appetite are not typically associated with benzodiazepines; instead, drowsiness and sedation are more commonly reported side effects.