Nokea
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.
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Which individual is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization?
- A. I just feel like I'm looking at life through a fog and that can't be my face in the mirror.
- B. I cannot recall why I'm living in this town or how I got here.
- C. There are just too many people living in my head now.
- D. I feel like I'm going to die, I'm having a heart attack.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The individual describing feeling like they are looking at life through a fog and questioning their reflection in the mirror is likely experiencing symptoms of derealization. Derealization involves feelings of detachment from one's surroundings, which can manifest as a sense of unreality or distortion of the environment. Choice B describes dissociative amnesia, which involves memory loss related to personal information or traumatic events. Choice C suggests dissociative identity disorder (DID), where a person experiences two or more distinct identities or personality states. Choice D indicates symptoms of a panic attack, such as fearing imminent death and physical sensations like a heart attack.
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.
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.
What is the priority intervention for a patient admitted for an overdose of sedatives and diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder?
- A. Conducting a suicide assessment
- B. Arranging for placement in a group home
- C. Providing a low-stimulation environment
- D. Establishing trust and rapport
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Conducting a suicide assessment is the priority intervention for a patient admitted for an overdose of sedatives and diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. In this scenario, the immediate concern is to assess the risk of harm to the patient's life. It is crucial to determine if the overdose was intentional and if the patient has suicidal ideation or intent. Arranging for placement in a group home (choice B) may be necessary at a later stage depending on the patient's needs, but it is not the priority in this urgent situation. Providing a low-stimulation environment (choice C) and establishing trust and rapport (choice D) are important aspects of care but addressing the immediate risk of suicide takes precedence in this case.
A patient with social anxiety disorder is prescribed a beta-blocker. Which symptom is this medication most likely intended to address?
- A. Panic attacks
- B. Tremors and palpitations
- C. Recurrent, intrusive thoughts
- D. Depression
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Beta-blockers are commonly used to alleviate physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders, such as tremors and palpitations. These medications help manage the autonomic symptoms of anxiety, like increased heart rate and trembling, which are often prominent in social anxiety disorder. Beta-blockers do not primarily target cognitive symptoms like recurrent, intrusive thoughts (choice C), panic attacks (choice A), or depression (choice D) in social anxiety disorder.