Which symptom is most commonly associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
- A. Frequent panic attacks
- B. Persistent and excessive worry
- C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
- D. Compulsive behaviors
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Persistent and excessive worry. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a variety of things, even when there is little or no reason to worry. This worry is difficult to control and can significantly impact daily life. While panic attacks, recurrent intrusive thoughts, and compulsive behaviors can occur in other anxiety disorders, persistent and excessive worry is the hallmark symptom of GAD. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary symptom associated with GAD.
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What is the most effective initial intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?
- A. Encourage the patient to discuss their feelings.
- B. Provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient.
- C. Administer prescribed medication immediately.
- D. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: During a panic attack, the most effective initial intervention is to provide a quiet environment and stay with the patient. This approach can help the patient feel safe and supported, which may help reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack. Encouraging the patient to discuss their feelings may not be helpful during the acute phase of a panic attack as it can be overwhelming. Administering prescribed medication immediately is not typically the first-line intervention for panic attacks. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial in the long term but may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic attack.
When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, which nursing intervention is a priority?
- A. Providing detailed education about the condition
- B. Monitoring for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation
- C. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events
- D. Helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When caring for a patient with dissociative identity disorder, the priority nursing intervention is to monitor for signs of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Ensuring patient safety is crucial, as individuals with this disorder may be at increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behaviors. Providing education about the condition is beneficial but ensuring immediate safety takes precedence. Encouraging the patient to recall traumatic events can be detrimental and should be done cautiously under professional guidance. While helping the patient develop a strong sense of identity is important in the long term, it is not the immediate priority when safety is a concern.
When developing a care plan for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which long-term goal is most appropriate?
- A. The patient will experience no episodes of anxiety.
- B. The patient will recognize and modify anxiety-provoking thoughts.
- C. The patient will avoid situations that cause anxiety.
- D. The patient will take medication as prescribed.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most appropriate long-term goal for managing generalized anxiety disorder is for the patient to recognize and modify anxiety-provoking thoughts. By addressing and modifying these thoughts, the patient can develop coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their anxiety more effectively in the long term. Choices A and C are not ideal long-term goals as complete elimination of anxiety episodes or avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations may not be realistic or sustainable. Choice D focuses solely on medication adherence, which is important but does not address the core cognitive-behavioral aspects of managing anxiety in GAD.
Which intervention should a healthcare professional implement to help a patient with social anxiety disorder?
- A. Encourage participation in group therapy sessions.
- B. Suggest practicing relaxation techniques during social interactions.
- C. Advise the patient to avoid social situations that cause anxiety.
- D. Teach the patient cognitive restructuring techniques.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Teaching cognitive restructuring techniques is an effective intervention for patients with social anxiety disorder. This approach helps individuals challenge and change their negative thought patterns, leading to improved coping mechanisms in social situations. Choice A, encouraging participation in group therapy sessions, may be overwhelming for individuals with social anxiety. Choice B, suggesting relaxation techniques, may offer short-term relief but does not address the underlying cognitive distortions. Choice C, advising avoidance of social situations, reinforces avoidance behaviors and does not promote long-term improvement in managing social anxiety.
Which symptom is most commonly associated with social anxiety disorder?
- A. Fear of speaking in public
- B. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
- C. Flashbacks of traumatic events
- D. Persistent low mood
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Fear of speaking in public is a hallmark symptom of social anxiety disorder. Individuals with social anxiety disorder often experience intense fear or anxiety about social situations where they may be scrutinized or judged by others, such as speaking in public. This fear can significantly impact their daily functioning and quality of life, making it a key feature in diagnosing social anxiety disorder. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks of traumatic events, and persistent low mood are more commonly associated with other mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression, respectively. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it aligns with the characteristic symptom of social anxiety disorder.