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PSYCHIATRIC NURSING REFRESHER REVIEW NOTES

PROFESSOR ARCHIE ALVIZ

NURSE-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP
journal, relatives)
- the nurse should develop self awareness

NURSE-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP
2. Orientation / Interaction:
 two-way - establish trust
 series of interaction between the nurse and - assess the client
the client - establish mutual agreement
 GOAL: POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL CHANGE - informing client about the day of termination
(1st day)

BONUS QUESTION 3. Working:


Q1: When does the therapeutic relationship begins? - longest phase
- ORIENTATION PHASE - achieve goals
- sharing facts
Q2: The only tool available for the nurse? - explore
- SELF (SELF-AWARENESS) - resolve the problems

4. Termination:
Elements of Therapeutic Relationship
- moving towards independence
- observe for regressive behaviors (relapse)
T> TRUST
 goals are partially met only
 reinforce previous management
R> RAPPORT
 re-evaluate
 modification will occur depending on the
U> UNCONDITIONAL POSITIVE REGARD
result

S> SET LIMITS

T> THERAPEUTIC USE OF SELF THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION


THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION
BONUS QUESTION
 dynamic process of exchanging information
Q3: When is trust established?
 verbal and non-verbal techniques
- WHEN PATIENT IS SHARING ALREADY
 nurse-patient

Elements of Therapeutic Communication


Therapeutic Behaviors
1. Sender/ Encoder: source of the message
1. Genuineness: sincerity and honesty 2. Message: information being transmitted
2. Concreteness: ability to identify one’s feelings 3. Receiver/ Decoder: recipient of the message
3. Respect: consideration that each client is unique 4. Feedback: receives the response
(acceptance)

Non-Verbal Communication
Phases of Therapeutic Relationship
1. Proxemics:
1. Pre-Interaction / Pre-Orientation: - “physical space” between the sender and the
- no contact receiver
- data sourcing from secondary sources (chart, - ideal: 3-6 ft or 1 arm and a half

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2. Kinetics: 4. Broad Openings:


- body movements (gestures, facial expressions, - “Where would you like to begin?”
and mannerisms)
- enhances the credibility of what you’re saying 5. Making Observations:
- “I noticed you have combed your hair today.”
3. Touch:
- intimate physical contact 6. Summarizing:
- always ask for consent - “In the past 15 minutes, we have talked about..”

4. Silence: 7. Encouraging Description of Perception:


- convey listening - Pt: “ I am hearing voices.”
- encourage the patient to talk - Nurse: “What are the voices telling you?”
- explore the content of hallucination
5. Paralanguage:
- “voice quality” 8. Presenting Reality:
- tone and infliction - “I know that the voices seem real to you, but
- how the message is delivered there are no voices here.”
- acknowledge/validate then present reality

Verbal Communication ILLUSION HALLUCINATION


 therapeutic and appropriate - with stimuli - without stimuli
 simple and concise - ex: - ex:
 credible electric fan becomes can still see snake
snake 1. Visual: vision
1. Offering Self: 2. Auditory: hearing and
- “Let me sit with you for 5 minutes.” is most dangerous
- should be time-bounded (time-specific) 3. Tactile: feelings
4. Gustatory: taste
S > SPECIFIC
9. Seeking Clarification:
M > MEASURABLE
-”Do you mean?”

A > ATTAINABLE
10. Reflecting:
- Let the patient decide
R > REALISTIC
11. Restating:
T > TIME-BOUNDED
- rephrasing/repeating
- Pt: “I am down.”
2. Active Listening: - Nurse: “You feel depressed?”
- “Ah-huh”
- “Yes” 12. General Leads:
- “No” - “Go on.”
- encourages patient to talk - “Then?”
- “Tell me more.”
3. Explaining:
- “You said Hannah was the best, can you 13. Focusing:
describe her?” - “Let us look at it more closely.”

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- plastic

NON- THERAPEUTIC 4. Rationalization:

COMMUNICATION
- reasoning out

5. Projection:
NON-THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION
- blaming others
 Giving advise
 Talking about self 6. Introjection:
 Telling the client is wrong > arouses - blaming self/ exact replica
dispute > argument > loss of trust
 False reassurance 7. Compensation:
 Asking Why: demands an answer > arouses - weak on one aspect to strong on other aspect
deep seated feelings Ex: weak on sports to academic excellence

8. Denial:
SPHERES - non-acceptance of truth

NON-THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION
9. Displacement:
1. ID - channeling of anxiety
-pleasure
- irrational 10. Regression:
- Increased ID: ANTISOCIAL - going back to the previous developmental stage

2. EGO 11. Undoing:


-reality-based - hugas-kamay
- sanity - because of guilt
- ideal, balances ID and SUPEREGO
12. Conversion:
3. SUPEREGO - turning anxiety into physical symptoms
- conscience
- morality 13. Intellectualization:
- Increased SUPEREGO: OCPD - reasoning out in a detailed/reference or

step-by-step manner
- acknowledging without emotions
DEFENSE MECHANISMS
14. Substitution:
DEFENSE MECHANISMS
- making unavailable to available
1. Repression:
- unconscious forgetting 15. Identification:
- “di sadya” - Idolization but only certain features

2. Suppression:
- consciously forgetting
- “sadya” CRISIS
Types of Crisis
3. Reaction Formation:
1. Maturational/Developmental:

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- predictable and is expected - can’t go back to previous position


Ex: Marriage, Pregnancy, Menarche - can’t be molded

2. Situational: 5. Echopraxia:
- unexpected/unpredictable - purposeless imitations
Ex: Loss of job, Accidents, Death of loved ones - mirror-like imitation

3. Adventitious/Social:
- Acts of God and hideous crimes
Ex: War, Rape, Earthquakes, Pandemic DISTURBANCES IN
COMMUNICATION
STAGES OF DEATH AND DYING Disturbances in Communication

1. Mutism: act of being mute


Stages of Death and Dying

2. Negativism:
D > DENIAL: unacceptance of truth - always saying “NO”
- Defense Mechanism: Regression
A > ANGER: project/introject
3. Circumstantiality:
B > BARGAINING: unrealistic offers - beating around the bush
- “paligoy- ligoy”
D > DEPRESSION: dangerous stage, suicidal - arrives with an answer
- should be near the nurse’s station
- doors should be opened 4. Tangentiality:
- frequent irregular visits - beating around the bush
- without answer
A > ACCEPTANCE: moving forward
5. Stilted Language: use of flowery words

DISTURBANCES IN APPEARANCE 6. Flight of Ideas:


- slightly related
- with meaning
Disturbances in Appearance

1. Automatisms: repeated purposeless behavior 7. Lose Associations:


- not related
2. Psychomotor Retardation: - without meaning
- slowed movements - usually in statement form
- commonly seen in DEPRESSED patients
8. Perseveration:
3. Waxy Flexibility: - adherence to single topic only
- maintenance of awkward posture - go back to the same topic
- go back to previous position
- can be molded 9. Echolalia:
- parrot-like imitation
4. Catatonia:
- maintenance of awkward posture - repeating of words of others

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10. Palilalia:
- stereotyped words/last syllable
DISTURBANCES IN AFFECT
- Ex: Nahulog-log-log-log
Disturbances in Affect

11. Verbigeration: 1. Inappropriate: incongruent words and actions


- repeating the same words over and over again
- repeating words of own 2. Blunted: little/minimal response

12. Coprolalia: 3. Restricted: display only one type of expression


- copro (feces), lalia (logic)
- cursing/ shit-like talking 4. Labile Mood: unpredictable/ mood swings

13. Neologism: coining of new words 5. Apathy:


- flat affect
14. Blocking: sudden cessation of thought - absence of emotions

15. Word Salad: mixture of unrelated words 6. Ambivalence:


- opposing feelings
16. Clang Association: use of rhyming words - mixed emotions

7. Anhedonia: absence of pleasure

8. Euphoria: extreme pleasure


DISTURBANCES IN PERCEPTION
Disturbances in Perception

1. Delusions: fixed false belief STRESS


3 Stages of Stress
2. Magical Thinking
1. Stage I:
3. Paranoia: extreme suspiciousness - Alarm Reaction
- You have determined that there is stress
4. Religiousity: obsession in religious ideas 2. Stage II:
- Stage of Resistance
5. Phobia: irrational fear - You will utilize all the resources available to
solve the problem
6. Obsession: persistent thoughts (mind) ---------------PROBLEM IS UNRESOLVED-----------------
3. Stage III:
7. Compulsion: persistent actions (actions) - Stage of Exhaustion
- You have utilized all the resources but the `
8. Preoccupation: idea with intense desire problem is not solved

9. Thought Broadcasting: others know what I think

10. Delusions of Reference: feeling talk of the town ANXIETY VS. FEAR
ANXIETY FEAR
- unknown cause - known cause

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 No phobias, no panic attacks, no OC


4 Levels of Anxiety manifestations
1. Mild: Signs and Symptoms:
- logical thinking - Palpitations
- increase concentration - Chest pain
- increase alertness - Headache
- problem-solving approach - Insomnia
Management:
2. Moderate: - assist in problem-solving
- increase irritability - teach coping behaviors
- decreased attention span - assess previous coping
- selective inattentiveness Drug of Choice:
Management: - Benzodiazepines and Anxiolytics
 Relaxation techniques (DBE) - Antianxiety agents “pam” “lam”
 Encourage verbalization of feelings
Medications:
2. PANIC DISORDER
 Benzodiazepines (diazepam, vallium)
 Anxiolytics “pam” “lam”  Recurrent
 Unpredictable
3. Severe:  Panic attacks
- extreme muscle tension Signs and Symptoms:
- loud and rapid speech - trembling
- difficulty of focusing even with assistance - racing heart (tachycardia: SNS response),
- distorted perception - chest pain
Management: - DOB
 Stay with the patient - choking sensations
- numbness
4. Panic: Management:
- suicidal tendencies/ attempts - assist in problem-solving
- fixed eyes
- hysterical/ - teach coping behaviors
- mute Drug of Choice:
- incoherence - benzodiazepines
Management: - other meds:
 Assist in relaxation techniques beta blockers “lol”
 Decrease stimuli SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
 Stay with the client MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
 PAPER BAG: hyperventilation, respiratory
alkalosis ****IF WITH ADDICTION TO BENZODIAZEPINES,
USE ANTIHISTAMINES FOR ITS SECONDARY
EFFECT.

ANXIETY RELATED DISORDERS


Primary Effect: Anti-cholinergic
Secondary Effect: Sedative Effect

1. GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD)


3. ACUTE STRESS DISORDER
 Worry worm: pacing
 No apparent reason  Common in typhoon victims
 6 months and above

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Signs and Symptoms: - thought stopping (diversion > rubber band)


- after 2 days to 4 weeks or 1 month - guided imagery: conditioning
Management:
- progressive review of the trauma
6. OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER
Drug of Choice:
- benzodiazepines  Obsession: repetitive/persistent thoughts
 Compulsion: repetitive/persistent actions
Management:
4. POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)
- Aversion: punishment (most effective)
 Signs and symptoms are more than 4 weeks, - give time for ritualistic behaviors unless
greater than 1 month dangerous
 Recurrent flashbacks (intrusive thoughts: - establish limits
nakakabagabag) - diversional activities
 Re-experiencing of trauma - SLRC> Set Limits
 Defense Mechanism: Displacement Reality Consistent
Signs and Symptoms: Drug of Choice:
- starts with general numbing > somatic (bodily) - SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors):
symptoms decreases anxiety
- irritability
- depression

ANXIETY RELATED DISORDERS


- anger
- social withdrawal
Management:
ANXIETY RELATED DISORDERS
- assist in gaining control over angry impulses
(acceptance) 1. Bipolar I
Drug of Choice: 2. Bipolar II
- Benzodiazepines 3. Manic Disorder
- other meds: 4. Major Depressive Disorder
Betablockers 5. Cyclothemia
Antihistamines 6. Dysthemia

5. PHOBIC DISORDER/ PHOBIA BI BII MDO MDD CY DY


 Persistent irrational fear Mania
 Fear is unreasonable proportion to the actual
danger Hypomania
3 MAIN TYPES:
1. Agoraphobia: NORMAL
- fear of open public places Hypodepression
- always stay near exits/at home
2. Social Major Depression
3. Simple:
- specific types: claustrophobia, hydorphobia, etc.
Management:
- systemic desensitization: gradual exposure to ***MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER CAN
the feared object PROGRESS TO BIPOLAR D/O
(opposite: flooding: sudden exposure > not
effective)
- breathing exercises

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2. DISORGANIZED
MAJOR DEPRESSION BIPOLAR DISORDER
- over dependence and - mask of depression  Bizarre baheviors
loss Signs and Symptoms:
- thoughts
Defense Mechanism: Defense Mechanism: - movements
- Introjection - Reaction formation - speech
Signs and Symptoms: Signs and Symptoms: Defense Mechanism:
- anhedonia - hyperactivity - Regression
- psychomotor - manipulative Nursing Diagnosis:
retardation - controlling - Impaired Social Functioning
- negative s/sx - inattentive Management:
Attitude: Attitude: - ADL assistance
- kind firmness - Matter-of-fact
Activity: Activity:
3. PARANOID
- counting seashells - breaking leaves
- writing - modeling clay  Suspiciousness
Therapy: - walking  Ideas of reference
- group therapy Therapy: Signs and Symptoms:
- non-competitive - solitary therapy - Delusion
WOF: - non-competitive - Hallucinations
- Suicide (safety) ***FINGER FOODS - Flight of Ideas
Defense Mechanism:
- Projection
Nursing Diagnosis:

SCHIZOPHRENIA
- Potential for Injury Directed to Self and Others
- Priority: Safety
Management:
Schizophrenia
- Nutrition and safety
 Increase Dopamine Meds:
- Antipsychotics: 3-4 weeks therapeutic effects
Goal: decrease dopamine
1. CATATONIC
WOF:
 Abnormal motor behavior 1. Pseudoparkinsonism:
Signs and Symptoms: - s/sx of parkinsons disease:
- catatonia - mask-like face
- tremors
- waxy flexibility - shuffling gait
- mutism
- negativism 2. EPS (Extrapyramidal S/E): anticholinergics
Defense Mechanism: Akineton
- Repression Artane
Nursing Diagnosis: Cogentin
- Impaired Motor Activity Benadryl
Management:
Priority: 3. NMS (Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome)
1. Circulation: PROM exercises - wide BP fluctuations
2. Nutrition

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- stop prevent suicide


- notify the physician
- monitor vital signs
3. Histrionic

 “I love attention”

PERSONALITY DISORDERS 

Attention-seeker
Dramatic
 Excessively emotional
CLUSTER A: ECCENTRIC

1. Paranoid 4. Narcissistic

 Extreme suspiciousness and distrust  “I love myself”


 Due to personal or traumatic experiences  Grandiosity
 Need constant affirmation from others
 Exaggerated sense of being important
2. Schizoid

 Social withdrawal Management:


 Aloof - anticonvulsant: relaxant
 Problem: Maintaining relationship - lithium: for manic symptoms
- MAOI’s (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)

3. Schizotypal
CLUSTER C: ANXIOUS/FEARFUL
 Bizarre behaviors
 Silly laughing 1. Avoidant:
 Magical thinking - “I avoid because I hate criticisms”
 Mild Psychotic symptoms - Low self-esteem

Management: 2. Dependent:
- Antidepressants - “I can’t live if living is without you.”
- Low dose antipsychotics - Over reliance
- submissive

CLUSTER B: ERRATIC/DRAMATIC
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder
(OCPD)
1. Antisocial

OCD OCPD
 No guilt, no remorse, no conscience - anxiety-related d/o - personality d/o
 Disregard rights, rules and laws - aware - unaware
 <18yo: Conduct Disorder - real - no real obsessions/
 >18y/o: Antisocial Personality Disorder obsessions/compulsions compulsions
- perfectionist
-rigid/inflexible
2. Borderline
- moralistic
 Suicidal tendencies
 Body mutilation Management:
 Fear of being alone - Benzodiazepines
 Manipulative - Anxiolytics
 Give antidepressants: control behavior and

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POST-TEST 6. Propranolol (Inderal) is used in the mental health setting


1. Seng, a 24-year-old client is experiencing an acute to manage which of the following conditions?
schizophrenic episode. She has vivid hallucinations that a. Antipsychotic-induced akathisia and anxiety
are making him agitated. The nurse's best response at this b. The manic phase of bipolar illness as a mood stabilizer
time would be to: c. Delusions for clients suffering from schizophrenia
a. take the client's vital signs. d. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to reduce ritualistic
b. explore the content of the hallucinations. behavior
c. tell him his fear is unrealistic.
d. engage the client in reality-oriented activities. 7. Orly, a client with borderline personality disorder
becomes angry when he is told that today's psychotherapy
2. Ofel, a client with paranoid type schizophrenia becomes session with the nurse will be delayed 30 minutes because
angry and tells the nurse to leave her alone. The nurse of an emergency. When the session finally begins, the
should: client expresses anger. Which response by the nurse
a. tell her that she'll leave for now but will return soon. would be most helpful in dealing with the client's anger?
b. ask her if it's okay if she sits quietly with him. A. "If it had been your emergency, I would have made the other
c. ask her why he wants to be left alone. client wait."
d. tell her that she won't let anything happen to him. B. "I know it's frustrating to wait. I'm sorry this happened."
C. "You had to wait. Can we talk about how this is making you
3. Ruth, a client begins taking haloperidol (Haldol). After feel right now?"
a few days, she experiences severe tonic contractures of D. "I really care about you and I'll never let this happen again.”
muscles in the neck, mouth, and tongue. The nurse should
recognize this as: 8. How soon after chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
a. psychotic symptoms. administration should the nurse expect to see a client's
b. parkinsonism. delusional thoughts and hallucinations eliminated?
c. akathisia. a. Several minutes
d. dystonia. b. Several hours
c. Several days
4. Ed, a psychotic client reports to the evening nurse that d. Several weeks
the day nurse put something suspicious in his water with
his medication. The nurse replies, "You're worried about 9. Lhoy, a client receiving haloperidol (Haldol) complains
your medication?" The nurse's communication is: of a stiff jaw and difficulty swallowing. The nurse's first
a. an example of presenting reality. action is to:
b. reinforcing the client's delusions. A. reassure the client and administer as needed lorazepam
c. focusing on emotional content. (Ativan) I.M.
d. a nontherapeutic technique called mind reading. B. administer as needed dose of benztropine (Cogentin) I.M. as
ordered.
5. Prometheus is admitted to the inpatient unit of the C. administer as needed dose of benztropine (Cogentin) by
mental health center with a diagnosis of paranoid mouth as ordered.
schizophrenia. He's shouting that the the government of D. administer as needed dose of haloperidol (Haldol) by mouth.
France is trying to assassinate him. Which of the following
responses is most appropriate? 10. Jiffery, a client with a diagnosis of paranoid
a. "I think you're wrong. France is a friendly country and an ally schizophrenia comments to the nurse, "How do I know
of the United States. Their government wouldn't try to kill you." what is really in those pills?" Which of the following is the
b. "I find it hard to believe that a foreign government or anyone best response?
else is trying to hurt you. You must feel frightened by this." A. Say, "You know it's your medicine."
c. "You're wrong. Nobody is trying to kill you." B. Allow him to open the individual wrappers of the medication.
d. "A foreign government is trying to kill you? Please C. Say, "Don't worry about what is in the pills. It's what is
tell me more about it." ordered."

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D. Ignore the comment because it's probably a joke. d. a hallucination.

11. The nurse is caring for Guy, a client with schizophrenia 16. The nurse knows that the physician has ordered the
who experiences auditory hallucinations. The client liquid form of the drug chlorpromazine (Thorazine) rather
appears to be listening to someone who isn't visible. He than the tablet form because the liquid:
gestures, shouts angrily, and stops shouting in mid- a. has a more predictable onset of action.
sentence. Which nursing intervention is the most b. produces fewer anticholinergic effects.
appropriate? c. produces fewer drug interactions.
a. Approach the client and touch him to get his attention. d. has a longer duration of action.
b. Encourage the client to go to his room where he'll experience
fewer distractions. 17. Gay-gay, a client who has been hospitalized with
c. Acknowledge that the client is hearing voices but make it disorganized type schizophrenia for 8 years can't complete
clear that the nurse doesn't hear these voices. activities of daily living (ADLs) without staff direction and
d. Ask the client to describe what the voices are saying. assistance. The nurse formulates a nursing diagnosis of
Self-care deficient: Dressing/grooming related to inability
12. Yesterday, James, a client with schizophrenia began to function without assistance. What is an appropriate goal
treatment with haloperidol (Haldol). Today, the nurse for this client?
notices that the client is holding his head to one side and a. "Client will be able to complete ADLs independently within 1
complaining of neck and jaw spasms. What should the month."
nurse do? b. "Client will be able to complete ADLs with only verbal
a. Assume that the client is posturing. encouragement within 1 month."
b. Tell the client to lie down and relax. c. "Client will be able to complete ADLs with assistance in
c. Evaluate the client for adverse reactions to haloperidol. organizing grooming items and clothing within 1 month."
d. Put the client on the list for the physician to see tomorrow d. "Client will be able to complete ADLs with complete
assistance within 1 month."
13. Alvin, a client with paranoid schizophrenia has been
experiencing auditory hallucinations for many years. One 18. The nurse is planning care for Chester, a client
approach that has proven to be effective for hallucinating admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of
clients is to: paranoid schizophrenia. Which nursing diagnosis should
a. take an as-needed dose of psychotropic medication receive the highest priority?
whenever they hear voices. a. Risk for violence toward self or others
b. practice saying "Go away" or "Stop" when they hear voices. b. Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements
c. sing loudly to drown out the voices and provide a distraction. c. Ineffective family coping
d. go to their room until the voices go away. d. Impaired verbal communication

14. Violet, a client with catatonic schizophrenia is mute, 19. The nurse is preparing for the discharge of Charlie, a
can't perform activities of daily living, and stares out the client who has been hospitalized for paranoid
window for hours. What is the nurse's first priority? schizophrenia. The client's husband expresses concern
a. Assist the client with feeding. over whether his wife will continue to take her daily
b. Assist the client with showering. prescribed medication. The nurse should inform him that:
c. Reassure the client about safety. a. his concern is valid but his wife is an adult and has the right
d. Encourage socialization with peers. to make her own decisions.
b. he can easily mix the medication in his wife's food if she
15. Mai-mai, a client tells the nurse that the television stops taking it.
newscaster is sending a secret message to her. The nurse c. his wife can be given a long-acting medication that is
suspects the client is experiencing: administered every 1 to 4 weeks.
a. a delusion. d. his wife knows she must take her medication as prescribed
b. flight of ideas. to avoid future hospitalizations.
c. ideas of reference.

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20. Benztropine (Cogentin) is used to treat the d. hallucination.
extrapyramidal effects induced by antipsychotics. This
drug exerts its effect by: 25. Which of the following medications would the nurse
a. decreasing the anxiety causing muscle rigidity. expect the physician to order to reverse a dystonic
b. blocking the cholinergic activity in the central nervous system reaction?
(CNS). a. prochlorperazine (Compazine)
c. increasing the level of acetylcholine in the CNS. b. diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
d. increasing norepinephrine in the CNS. c. haloperidol (Haldol)
d. midazolam (Versed)
21. Aida, a client is admitted to the inpatient unit of the
mental health center with a diagnosis of paranoid 26. A schizophrenic client states, "I hear the voice of King
schizophrenia. She's shouting that the government of Tut." Which response by the nurse would be most
France is trying to assassinate her. Which of the following therapeutic?
responses is most appropriate? a. "I don't hear the voice, but I know you hear what sounds like
a. "I think you're wrong. France is a friendly country and an ally a voice."
of the United States. Their government wouldn't try to kill you." b. "You shouldn't focus on that voice."
b. "I find it hard to believe that a foreign government or anyone c. "Don't worry about the voice as long as it doesn't belong to
else is trying to hurt you. You must feel frightened by this. anyone real."
c. "You're wrong. Nobody is trying to kill you." d. "King Tut has been dead for years."
d. "A foreign government is trying to kill you? Please tell me
more about it." 27. Daryl, a client has been receiving chlorpromazine
(Thorazine), an antipsychotic, to treat his psychosis.
22. A dopamine receptor agonist such as bromocriptine Which findings should alert the nurse that the client is
(Parlodel) relieves muscle rigidity caused by antipsychotic experiencing pseudoparkinsonism?
medication by: a. Restlessness, difficulty sitting still, and pacing
a. blocking dopamine receptors in the central nervous system b. Involuntary rolling of the eyes
(CNS). c. Tremors, shuffling gait, and masklike face
b. blocking acetylcholine in the CNS. d. Extremity and neck spasms, facial grimacing,
c. activating norepinephrine in the CNS. and jerky movements
d. activating dopamine receptors in the CNS.
28. For several years, a client with chronic schizophrenia
23. Most antipsychotic medications exert which of has received 10 mg of fluphenazine hydrochloride (Prolixin)
following effects on the central nervous system (CNS)? by mouth four times per day. Now the client has a
a. Stimulate the CNS by blocking postsynaptic dopamine, temperature of 102° F (38.9° C), a heart rate of 120
norepinephrine, and serotonin receptors. beats/minute, a respiratory rate of 20 breaths/minute, and
b. Sedate the CNS by stimulating serotonin at the synaptic a blood pressure of 210/140 mm Hg. Because the client
cleft. also is confused and incontinent, the nurse suspects
c. Depress the CNS by blocking the postsynaptic transmission malignant neuroleptic syndrome. What steps should the
of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. nurse take?
d. Depress the CNS by stimulating the release of acetylcholine. a. Give the next dose of fluphenazine, call the physician, and
monitor vital signs.
24. Frowline, a client is admitted to the psychiatric unit of a b. Withhold the next dose of fluphenazine, call the physician,
local hospital with chronic undifferentiated schizophrenia. and monitor vital signs.
During the next several days, the client is seen laughing, c. Give the next dose of fluphenazine and restrict the client to
yelling, and talking to herself. This behavior is the room to decrease stimulation.
characteristic of: d. Withhold the next dose of fluphenazine, administer an
a. delusion. antipyretic agent, and increase the client's fluid intake.
b. looseness of association.
c. illusion.

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29. Gelyn, a schizophrenic client with delusions tells the
nurse, "There is a man wearing a red coat who's out to get 34. One of the myths about sexual abuse of young children
me." The client exhibits increasing anxiety when focusing is that it usually involves physically violent acts. Which of
on the delusions. Which of the following would be the best the following behaviors is more likely to be used by the
response? abusers?
a. "This subject seems to be troubling you. Let's walk to the a. Asking for the child’s consent for sex.
activity room." b. Coercion as a result of the trusting relationship.
b. "Describe the man who's out to get you. What does he look c. Tying the child down.
like?" d. Bribery with money.
c. "There is no reason to be afraid of that man.
d. "There is no need to be concerned with a man hospital is 35. Aura is suspected of being sexually abused because
very secure." who isn't even real." she demonstrates the self-destructive behaviors of head
banging and self-mutilation. Which of the following
30. Important teaching for women in their childbearing behaviors would the nurse also commonly expect to
years who are receiving antipsychotic medications assess?
includes which of the following? a. Substance abuse.
a. Occurrence of increased libido due to medication adverse b. Overcontrol of anger.
effects c. Truancy and running away.
b. Increased incidence of dysmenorrhea while taking the drug d. Inability to play.
c. Continuing previous use of contraception during periods of
amenorrhea 36. Desiree who has been sexually abused has difficulty
d. Instruction that amenorrhea is irreversible putting feelings into words. Which of the following would
the nurse employ with the child?
31. Tic-tic, a client is admitted to a psychiatric facility with a. Role-playing.
a diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia. The history b. Giving the patient’s drawings to the abuser.
indicates that the client has been taking neuroleptic c. Engaging in play therapy.
medication for many years. Assessment reveals unusual d. Reporting the abuse to a prosecutor.
movements of the tongue, neck, and arms. Which
condition should the nurse suspect? 37. When developing a teaching plan for a high school
a. Tardive dyskinesia health class about anorexia nervosa, which of the
b. Dystonia following would the nurse include as the primary group
c. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome affected by this disease?
d. Akathisia a. Women, age at onset between 12 to 20 years.
b. Men, onset during the college years.
32. When planning the care for Gerly who is abused, which c. Women, onset typically after 30 years of age.
of the following measures would be most important to d. Men, onset before 20 years of age.
include?
a. Helping the patient develop a safety plan. 38. When assessing Edna, a patient with anorexia nervosa,
b. Explaining to the patient her personal and legal rights. the nurse would expect to find which of the following?
c. Teaching her about abuse and the cycle of violence. a. Lanugo, hypothermia, and hypotension.
d. Being compassionate and empathetic. b. Constipation, dysmenorrheal, and hypertension.
c. Diarrhea, dry skin and menorrhagia.
33. The nurse is assessing Renee’s methods of coping. A d. Hyperthermia, oliguria and bradycardia.
patient who is being abused would be least likely to
demonstrate which of the following? 39. Krisha, diagnosed with bulimia tells the nurse that she
a. Self-blame. eats excessively when she is upset and then vomits so she
b. Alcohol abuse. won’t gain a lot of weight. Which of the following nursing
c. Assertiveness. diagnostic categories would be most appropriate for her?
d. Suicidal thoughts. a. Ineffective coping.

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b. Imbalanced nutrition: more than body requirements.
c. Anxiety. 45. When assessing Toni, a 17-year-old male patient with
d. Disabled family coping. depression for suicide risk, which of the following
questions would be best?
40. During the initial interview, Kriszel who has a a. “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
compulsive eating disorder remarks, “I can’t stand myself b. “What movies about death have you watched lately?”
and the way I look.” Which of the following statements by c. “Can you tell me what you think about suicide?”
the nurse would be most therapeutic? d. “Has anyone in your family ever committed suicide?”
a. “Don’t worry, you’ll soon be back in shape.”
b. “Tell me more about your feelings.” 46. Which of the following would the nurse expect to
c. “Everyone who has the same problem feels like you do.” include in the teaching plan for the parents of Kyle who is
d. “I don’t think you look bad at all.” receiving methylphenidate (Ritalin)?
a. Allowing concurrent use of any over-the counter medications
41. Josh, a 3-year-old child is brought into the physician’s with this drug.
office by her parents who are concerned by his behavior. b. Giving the medication at the same time every evening.
They state that he resists their affection, twirls around c. Having the child take two doses at the same time if the last
frequently, and refuses to respond to other children and dose was missed.
adults. Based on the analysis of these behaviors, which of d. Giving the single-dose form of the medication early in the
the following would the nurse suspect? day.
a. Tourette syndrome.
b. Schizophrenia. 47. During the assessment stage, Sweet, a client with
c. ADHD. schizophrenia leaves his arm in the air after the nurse has
d. Autism. taken his blood pressure. His action shows evidence of:
a. somatic delusions.
42. The nurse is with the parents of Kevin, a 16- yearold b. waxy flexibility.
boy who recently attempted suicide. The nurse cautions c. neologisms.
the parents to be especially alert for which of the following d. nihilistic delusions.
in their son?
a. Decision to try out for an extracurricular activity. 48. Salty, a client in the manic phase of bipolar disorder
b. Giving away valued personal items. constantly belittles other clients and demands special
c. Desire to spend more time with friends. favors from the nurses. Which nursing intervention would
d. Expression of a desire to date. be most appropriate for this client?
a. Ask other clients and staff members to ignore the client's
43. The nurse at the mental health clinic is meeting a new behavior.
patient who is Kezia, a 7-year-old girl with Tourette b. Set limits with consequences for belittling or demanding
syndrome. Which of the following would the nurse expect behavior.
to assess? c. Offer the client an antianxiety drug when belittling or
a. Isolated verbal tics. demanding behavior occurs.
b. Alternating simple and complex motor tics. d. Offer the client a variety of stimulating activities to distract
c. Multiple motor and verbal tics. him from belittling or making demands of others.
d. Primarily motor tics.
49. Bitter, a client diagnosed with depression tells the
44. Which of the following medications would the nurse nurse, "I won't allow myself to cry because it upsets the
anticipate administering as a treatment for tic disorders, whole family when I cry." This is an example of:
including Tourette disorder? a. manipulation.
a. Lithium. b. insight.
b. Clonidine. c. rationalization.
c. Chlorpromazine. d. repression.
d. Imipramine.

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50. When monitoring Howard, a male client recently
admitted for treatment of cocaine addiction, the nurse
notes sudden increase in the arterial blood pressure and
heart rate. To correct these problems, the nurse expects
the physician to prescribe:
a. Norepinephrine (Levophed) and lidocaine
(Xylocaine)
b. Nifedipine (Procardia) and lidocaine
c. Nitroglycerin (Nitro-Bid IV) and esmolol (Brevibloc)
d. Nifedipine and nitroglycerin

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PROFESSOR ARCHIE ALVIZ
6. Johnny owns a small business that has recently been

EVALUATIVE EXAM experiencing reduced sales and profits. He obtained a


bank loan to cover losses from the past few months and
Situation: The nurse is working with a client is having difficulty obtain merchandises for inventory. The bank loan will be
understanding and associating present symptoms with the due for repayment in 6- months. Which of the following
illness. describes William solution to his anxiety over his financial
situation?
1. In which of the following components of the mental A. Adaptive coping strategy
status assessment would this information be B. Palliative coping strategy
documented? C. Maladaptive coping method
A. insight D. Dysfunctional management
B. level of awareness
C.orientation 7. A client is scheduled for a radical mastectomy. As the
D.judgment nurse enters the client’s hospital room , the client says, “it
would be easier if I just didn’t wake up from the surgery ”.
2. Which of the following statements made by a client The best response for the nurse to make at this time is
indicate a possible problem with the individual’s present A. “You are just afraid now, everything will look different
state of mental health? tomorrow”
A. “I am involved in many community activities” B. “ You feel, it would be easier to die than to face the loss of
B. “My children don’t care about me anymore” your breast?”
C. “I enjoy the solitude of living by myself” C. “Some people feel the same way you do , but his does not
D. “I try not to let the things upset me” mean that the end of your life”
D. “Why do you think it would be easier to die than to wake up
3. In general a client diagnosed with a mental illness would after surgery?”
demonstrate which of the following?
A. Rational and realistic thought processing 8. The nurse is assessing a client whose wallet was stolen.
B Ability to function alone or with others. The client is experiencing palpitation, hyperventilation,
C. Disrupted interpersonal relationship diaphoresis and confusion. Although alert and talking, the
D. Motivation and inner values and strengths client is unable provide a name and address. The nurse
would document this as the client is experiencing which
4. Which of the following is a component of the client’s level of anxiety?
mental status nursing assessment? A. Mild Anxiety
A. post medical history B. Moderate Anxiety
B. mood and affect C. Severe Anxiety
C. medical diagnosis D. Panic Level
D. nursing diagnosis
9. A client is seen in the emergency room for acute
5. When gathering data concerning the present mental symptoms of anxiety and situational crisis. The examining
status of a client, the nurse would recognize which of the physician asks that arrangement be made to refer this
following as a perceptual disturbance? client to a mental health clinic for counseling. This action
A. persistent use of rationalization to explain present situation by the physician recognizes which of the client rights to
B. description of reoccurring voices that are talking to him appropriate treatment?
C. inability to stay focused on the question asked A. to accept or refuse treatment
D. retention of immediate happenings is decreased B. to know qualifications of professionals involved in care
C. to receive explanations of treatment
Situations: In a complex society a lot of people are now prone D. to be treated in least restrictive setting
to experience a high degree of Anxiety and depression. It is
important if additional help is required to clients. 10. The nurse is doing client teaching for a client taking a
newly prescribed antianxiety medication. Which statement

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PSYCHIATRIC NURSING REFRESHER REVIEW NOTES
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by the client would alert the nurse to the need for further B. “None of my family seems to understand just how bad this
teaching? feeling is.”
A. “I will continue taking the drug even if it makes me sleepy.” C. “I am happiest when I am breast-feeding my 2-months-old
B. “May be now I can enjoy an evening of wine and dinner with daughter.”
my wife.” D. “Sometimes I feel like I am going crazy and have to leave
C. “I guess I won’t feel better right away from taking this drug.” the room.”
D. “Hopefully, I will only need to take this for a short period of
time.” 15. A 16 year old female client with a diagnosis of panic
disorder jumps when spoken to, complains of feeling
Situation: Panic disorders can occur in anticipation of an events uneasy and states” It’s as though something bad is going
as a result, clients restrict activities outside the safety of their to happen “It would be most therapeutic for the nurse to“
homes. A Psychiatric Nurse is attending to clients with intense A. Be physically present
fear and discomfort. B. Encourage the client to communicate with the staff
C. Allow the client to set the parameters for the interactions
11. A client has just been diagnosed with panic disorder. D. Help the client to understand the cause of the feelings
Which of the following symptoms would the nurse expect described
to observe?
A. hypotension 16. A 70 year old client states to the nurse that, “My life is a
B. feelings of suffocation pile of shambles with nothing to show for it” the client is
C. constipation experiencing what Erikson would term?
D. logical thought processes A. Doubt
B. Inferiority
12. Which of the following would be the most appropriate C. Despair
direct question for the nurse to use during an initial D. Stagnation
interview with a client who has just experienced a panic
attack? 17. A 4 –year old boy tells the nurse, “When I grow up, I am
A. “Does anyone else in your family have these feelings?” going to marry Mommy.” Which stage of psychosocial
B. “Have you ever felt this way before?” stage of development is portrayed by this statement?
C. “Tell me what you are feeling now?” A. Phallic
D. “Tell me about what causes you to feel this way.” B. Anal
C. Latency
13. When planning care for the client experiencing a Panic D. Genital
level of anxiety, which if the following is the most
appropriate initial outcome for the nurse to set for the 18. According to Piaget, children who seek to control their
client? world from a centrated point of view would in which stage
A. will develop a trusting relationship with the nurse of development?
B. will demonstrate insight into the cause of anxiety A. Sensorimotor
C. will identify alternate methods of coping B. Preoperational
D. will reduce anxiety at least one level C. Concrete
D. Formal
14. A client is being seen for increasing symptoms of
Panic attacks. The client asks the physician for 19. A person refrains from telling the truth to a friend
“something for my nerves.” Which of the following whose partner is having an affair with a co-worker to avoid
comments by the client should the nurse report to the hurting his friend. According to Kohlberg, this
physician as data that suggests a drug should not be demonstrates which level of moral development?
prescribed? A. Pre-conventional- Stage 2
A. “The panic attacks happen most when I am in a room full of B. Conventional- Stage 3
people.” C. Conventional- Stage 4
D. Post conventional- Stage 5

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20. A client is being seen who is unable to maintain 25. Which of the following best prepares the nurse to
employment. He states there is always an ulterior motives assist in viewing themselves and their behaviors more
on company policies that affect him. Which of the realistically?
following psychosocial stage is likely unresolved? A. developing an honest evaluation of oneself
A. Trust Vs. Mistrust B. psychosocial assessment of the client
B. Autonomy Vs. Doubt C. knowledge of personality development theories
C. Initiative VS. Guilt D. communication techniques
D. Industry Vs. Inferiority
Situation: The Nurse Client relationship exists for the benefit of
Situation: Marco 38 year old, has been arrested for physical the client. It is a well planned and goal directed interactions for
assault of another individual. He has a history of an abusive the purpose of understanding the clients.
childhood and previous aggressive offenses.
26. When establishing a therapeutic environment, which of
21. Behavioral theory would explain this behavior as the following factors would be most important in forming
A. Feelings of repressed hostility the foundation for a trusting nurse-client relationship?
B. A diminished sense of self esteem A. nurse’s sympathetic attitude
C. An innate impulsive drive for survival B. client’s educational background
D. reinforcement of early learning experiences C. amount of time spent with the client
D. nurse’s honesty and consistent integrity
22. The nurse is caring for a client who has been recently
diagnosed with Leukemia. Which of the following should 27. The nurse is working with a client who says, “You are
the nurse include in a psychological assessment of this the only one who really cares about me. I feel like everyone
client? else is giving me the shove just because I am getting out
A. Available coping behaviors of here this week.” Which of the following is indicated by
B. Relaxation techniques the client’s statement?
C. Consistency of care givers A. avoidance
D. Explanation of diagnostic exams B. withdrawal
C. ambivalence
23. For which of the following behaviors would the nurse D. Manipulation
recognize seclusions as an inappropriate intervention for
behavior management? 28. During a discussion between the nurse and a client, the
A. continued verbal aggression toward staff and other clients client suddenly starts shouting and tightening his fists.
B. physical aggression toward the nurse and other personnel Which of the following would be an appropriate action for
C. a client who continues to threaten suicidal intent the nurse at this time?
D. disruptive behavior during session of group therapy A. change the subject or topic of discussion
B. tell the client that hr will be secluded if he continues
24. While observing a client receiving behavioral therapy, C. touch the client’s arm and ask him to calm down
the nurse would recognize a positive treatment response D. walk away from the client without responding
when the client:
A. has insight into early relationships and experiences as the 29. In which of the following situations has the nurse
problem source violated professional boundaries in the nurse client
B. demonstrate noticeable behavioral change within a relatively relationship?
short time A. encouraged a client to discuss feelings of remorse over
C. identifies distorted thinking patterns that lead to problem rejection by another client
behaviors B. agreed to relay personal information about the client to the
D. performs behaviors included in signed agreement with the therapist
therapist C. returned cell phone call received from a client discharged 2
weeks earlier
D. assisted a disabled client with physical hygiene and bathing

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PROFESSOR ARCHIE ALVIZ
30. A client tells the nurse “I feel so secure when I am with 34. The nurse is caring for a client whose serum Lithium
you. Don’t tell the others, but you are the best nurse here.” Carbonate level is 1.5 mEq/L. The nurse expect the
What is the most appropriate response for the nurse at this Physician to do which of the following?
time? A. order an additional dose to be given one time only
A. “I am glad you feel secure with me. I will try to spend more B. increase the daily dosage of the medication
time with you.” C. order the next dose of the drug to be held
B. “You don’t mean that. There are many good nurses here.” D. stop the medication
C. “Why do you feel more secure with me than the others?”
D. “It seems as though you are feeling anxious. Can you tell me 35. It is important for the Nurse to include which of the
about that?” following instructions when teaching the client taking a
TCA?
Situation: The Nurse has a very important role in the successful A. take the medication with coffee or tea to enhance its effect
psychopharmacologic treatment of the patient. One of the B. the medication can be discontinued after a few weeks of
major nursing responsibilities is to continuously monitor the therapy
side effects on the patients and institute measures to minimize C. you can omit the morning dose of your medication if it makes
side effects. you too sleepy
D. wear a hat and long-sleeve shirt when you are outdoors in
31. The nurse administering a Psychotropic agent to a the sun
client with a mental disorder would recognize that the
primary goal of pharmacologic treatment is to: Situation: The nurse is documenting observations made during
A. cure the underlying cause of the mental disorder an initial contact with a client who has a currently been
B. prevent reoccurrence of behavioral problems diagnosed with Acute Schizophrenia, undifferentiated type.
C. assure compliance with the therapeutic regimen
D. control or reduce symptoms of the disorder 36. Which of the following behavior assessments would be
considered a positive symptom of Schizophrenia?
32. The nurse is providing client teaching to a client for A. presents with a blunted affect
whom the Antipsychotic agent Risperidone (Risperdal) B. expresses indications of avolition
has been prescribed. Which statement by the client would C. having auditory hallucinations
indicate a need for further teaching? D. disheveled and unkempt appearance
A. “I need to take the medication when I eat so it doesn’t upset
my stomach.” 37. The nurse is planning care for a client who has been
B. “It may be week or two before I feel really good.” newly diagnosed with Paranoid Schizophrenia. Which of
C. “I can still go riding on my bike in the afternoon like I usually the following perceptual changes should the nurse
do.” anticipate?
D. “I better sit on the edge of the bed awhile before I get up in A. clients does not notice or respond to changes in the
the morning.” environment
B. client recognizes that he is not responding normally stimuli
33. The Physician has ordered the drug Benztropine C. client accepts and understands the irrational nature of his
(Cogentin) for a client who has been taking the ideations
Antipsychotic medication Haloperidol (Haldol). Which of D. client frequently misinterprets social and environmental
the following would the nurse expect to assess in this stimuli
client?
A. increased delusional thinking 38. A client with Paranoid Schizophrenia believes her
B. intractable hiccups medications are tainted with poisonous substances and
C. diminished drive and apathy refuses to take them. Which action should the nurse take?
D. protruding tongue movements A. matter-of-factly reinforce to need to take the medication
B. ask the client what the medication is tainted with
C. ask the client why she thinks the medication is tainted
D. withhold the medication and try again later

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39. The nurse is assessing a client with Chronic C. is experiencing alcohol withdrawal
Schizophrenia who has stopped taking medication and is D. is probably using more than one substance
being admitted with acute psychotic symptoms. The
client’s perception of the present problem would best be 44. Ronald tells the nurse he is not an Alcoholic. He states
documented by the nurse. he drinks “two or three beers” with his buddies every day
A. using exact words in client statements after work and maybe one or two after he gets home. He
B. with information obtained from the family says, “I can handle it. I’ve never missed work because of it.”
C. by observing behavior for several hours The nurse would recognize Ronald is using the mental
D. an interpreted from the client thoughts mechanism of:
A. denial
40. To increase the self esteem of the client with B. projection
Schizophrenia, the Nurse should plan to: C. displacement
A. Reward healthy behaviors D. Rationalization
B. Identify various means of coping
C. Encourage good hygiene and grooming 45. While Nurse Sandro is assessing a client to be
D. Explain the diagnosis and treatment plan admitted for treatment of alcohol dependency, the client
says, “I suppose you to think I am just another drunk.” The
Situation: Alcohol is a mind and mood altering substance, a Nurse’s best response to this statement would be which of
Central Nervous System depressant that affects areas of the the following?
brain and several neurotransmitters. A. “We treat many people who have the same problem you do.”
B. “Why do you think you are a drunk?”
41. A client with a history of Alcohol Abuse tells the Nurse C. “At least you are being honest about it.”
Sandro, “I haven’t always drink this much, but lately my D. “We are most concerned that you receive treatment for your
life has just gone to pot.” The nurse notes that the client is problem”
rubbing his hands together and squirming in his seat.
Which of the following responses would be appropriate at Situation: Personality disorders occur when the personality of
this time? the individual is characterized by inflexible and maladaptive
A. “Go on….” traits that are considered to be different from the expectations
B. “What do you mean by your life has gone to pot?” of the individual’s culture causing impairment in interpersonal
C. “Are you blaming someone else for your drinking?” functioning.
D. “What could be so bad that you need to drink more?”
46. The nurse notes that a client is monopolizing most of
42. Nurse Sandro is assessing hourly vital signs on a the conversation during breakfast. He is loud and
client in acute alcohol withdrawal. The client is conscious criticizing other clients. Which of the following is the most
and coherent but the client’s blood pressure and pulse appropriate intervention for the nurse to make at this time?
were recorded as 132/68, 78 at 2200; 138/72, 84 at 1400; A. reprimand him for his inappropriate behavior
148/86, 90 at 0200 and 160/94/94 at 0400. Which of the B. provide him with medication to calm him down
following actions would Nurse Sandro initiate? C. put him in seclusion until he can control his actions
A. increase fluid intake to 3000 cc in the next 12 hours D. redirect and reinforce limits on his behavior
B. initiate interventions for fall precautions
C. obtain a clean catch urine specimen 47. Which of the following statements is true regarding
D. notify the physician clients with Personality disorders?
A. they are aware that they have a behavior problem
43. Jeff an adult client is admitted to the Psychiatric unit B. manipulative patterns often render treatment ineffective
with a blood alcohol level of 0.03%. He is disoriented with C. most have a sincere motivation to change behaviors
slurred speech and a staggering gait. Nurse Sandro would D. most recognize how their behavior affects others
correctly asses that the client
A. has symptoms of intoxication 48. Which of the following types of behavior could be
B. has developed a tolerance to alcohol interpreted as a form of self-destruction?

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A. avoiding close relationships and intimacy
B. involvement in no-win relationships
C. eccentric dress habits and mannerisms
D. exaggerated sense of importance

49. The individual with an Antisocial Personality Disorder


demonstrates a false sense of privileged revenge against
others. Which of the following best describes the result of
this thinking?
A. an outward focus of control over inner pain
B. repeated unsuccessful attempts to secure stability
C. persistent disregard and indifference to laws of society and
humanity
D. unrealistic expectations and standards of perfection

50. Which of the following terms would be characteristics


common to all Personality Disorders?
A. inflexible and maladaptive behaviors
B. odd or eccentric behaviors
C. cold, aloof, and suspicious tendencies
D. displaying ideas of reference in everyday occurrence

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