Which characteristic is most commonly associated with dissociative identity disorder?
- A. Frequent nightmares
- B. Auditory hallucinations
- C. Multiple distinct personalities
- D. Chronic fatigue
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Dissociative identity disorder, commonly known as multiple personality disorder, is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states within an individual. These distinct personalities may have their own way of perceiving and interacting with the world, often leading to gaps in memory and a sense of detachment. Frequent nightmares, auditory hallucinations, and chronic fatigue are not primary characteristics of dissociative identity disorder. Option C, multiple distinct personalities, is the hallmark feature of this disorder, making it the correct choice.
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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.
A 32-year-old female patient is diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Which behavior would the nurse expect to observe?
- A. Complains of persistent and excessive worry.
- B. Frequently fidgets and has difficulty sitting still.
- C. Exhibits ritualistic behaviors.
- D. Reports periods of derealization.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), individuals often experience persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of their life. This worry is difficult to control and is disproportionate to the actual source of concern. The other options describe behaviors more commonly associated with other anxiety disorders like social anxiety disorder (frequent fidgeting and difficulty sitting still), obsessive-compulsive disorder (ritualistic behaviors), and depersonalization/derealization disorder (periods of derealization). Therefore, the correct behavior to expect in a patient with GAD is persistent and excessive worry.
A patient with social anxiety disorder is starting cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Which statement by the nurse best explains the purpose of this therapy?
- A. CBT will help you understand and change your thought patterns.
- B. CBT will focus on exploring your childhood experiences.
- C. CBT will teach you relaxation techniques to use in social situations.
- D. CBT will help you avoid situations that cause anxiety.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term psychotherapy that aims to help patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety. By understanding and altering these patterns, individuals can learn to manage and alleviate their symptoms effectively. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the purpose of CBT for social anxiety disorder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. B is incorrect because while childhood experiences may be explored, the primary focus of CBT is on thought patterns and behaviors in the present. C is incorrect because although relaxation techniques may be a component of CBT, the primary goal is not just to teach relaxation but to address underlying cognitive and behavioral patterns. D is incorrect because the goal of CBT is not avoidance but rather to confront and manage anxiety-provoking situations.
During an intake assessment, a healthcare professional is evaluating a patient diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Which question would be most appropriate?
- A. Do you often experience periods of sadness?
- B. Do you have difficulty controlling your worrying?
- C. Do you find yourself repeating behaviors or thoughts?
- D. Do you experience sudden, unexpected panic attacks?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate question when assessing a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is to inquire about repeating behaviors or thoughts. This is a hallmark feature of OCD, where individuals often engage in repetitive actions or mental rituals to alleviate anxiety or distress. This behavior distinguishes OCD from other mental health conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (choice B), major depressive disorder (choice A), and panic disorder (choice D). Therefore, recognizing repetitive behaviors or thoughts helps in identifying the presence of OCD and tailoring appropriate interventions for the patient.
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.