What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
- A. Encouraging the patient to focus on deep breathing exercises.
- B. Encouraging the patient to avoid any physical activity.
- C. Asking the patient to describe their feelings in detail.
- D. Providing the patient with detailed information about panic attacks.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because focusing on deep breathing exercises helps the patient regulate their breathing and reduce hyperventilation during a panic attack. This intervention promotes relaxation and helps calm the patient down. Encouraging avoidance of physical activity (B) is incorrect as it does not address the immediate physiological symptoms of a panic attack. Asking the patient to describe their feelings (C) may be helpful for assessment but does not directly address the urgent need to manage the panic attack. Providing detailed information about panic attacks (D) is important for education but is not the priority during an active panic attack.
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A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is being taught about buspirone. Which statement indicates the patient needs further teaching?
- A. I should take this medication consistently rather than on an as-needed basis.
- B. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effect of this medication.
- C. This medication has a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
- D. I should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale:
1. Buspirone is not meant for immediate relief, so taking it consistently is crucial for its effectiveness.
2. Buspirone takes time to build up in the body and show its full effect, usually a few weeks.
3. Buspirone is known for having a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines.
4. Taking buspirone consistently is essential, unlike benzodiazepines which are often taken on an as-needed basis.
Therefore, choice A is incorrect as it goes against the appropriate usage of buspirone for treating generalized anxiety disorder.
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.
When discharging a patient with schizophrenia on risperidone, what is an important point to include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Avoiding foods high in tyramine is essential.
- B. Getting blood levels checked regularly is necessary.
- C. Being cautious when driving due to possible drowsiness is crucial.
- D. Taking this medication on an as-needed basis is recommended.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Getting blood levels checked regularly is necessary. This is important because risperidone is a medication that requires monitoring of blood levels to ensure it is within the therapeutic range for effectiveness and to prevent side effects. Regular monitoring helps to adjust the dosage if needed.
Choice A is incorrect because foods high in tyramine are a concern when taking MAOIs, not risperidone. Choice C is incorrect because drowsiness is a common side effect initially, but it may improve over time and caution while driving should be based on individual response. Choice D is incorrect because risperidone is not meant to be taken on an as-needed basis; it should be taken consistently to maintain stability in treating schizophrenia.
A patient with panic disorder is prescribed alprazolam. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in the teaching plan?
- A. Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you.
- B. Take the medication with food to avoid stomach upset.
- C. Take the medication at bedtime to help with sleep.
- D. Increase the dose if you do not feel better in a few days.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoid driving until you know how the medication affects you. This is crucial because alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. It is important to prioritize safety and prevent accidents. Choice B is incorrect as alprazolam does not necessarily need to be taken with food. Choice C is incorrect as alprazolam is typically taken during the day due to its sedative effects. Choice D is incorrect as increasing the dose without medical guidance can lead to overdose and adverse effects.
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.
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