Nurse in Psychiatry Test Bank Related

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What is the priority nursing diagnosis for a catatonic patient?

  • A. Ineffective coping
  • B. Impaired physical mobility
  • C. Risk for deficient fluid volume
  • D. Impaired social interaction
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The priority nursing diagnosis for a catatonic patient is Risk for deficient fluid volume (C) because catatonic patients are at risk for dehydration due to decreased fluid intake or inability to meet fluid needs. This diagnosis takes precedence over others as dehydration can lead to serious complications. Ineffective coping (A) may be secondary to the catatonic state but addressing fluid volume is more urgent. Impaired physical mobility (B) and Impaired social interaction (D) are important but not as critical as addressing the risk of dehydration in a catatonic patient.