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NCLEX Review Saunder's Questions
with Answers and Rationales (Ch. 72-77)
- A client with a diagnosis of major depression who has attempted suicide says to the nurse, "I should have died. I've always been a failure. Nothing ever goes right for me." Which response demonstrates therapeutic communication?
- "You have everything to live for."
- "Why do you see yourself as a failure?"
- "Feeling like this is all part of being depressed."
- "You've been feeling like a failure for a while?" - Correct Answers 4 Responding to the feelings expressed by a client is an effective therapeutic communication technique. The correct option is an example of the use of restating. The remaining options block communication because they minimize the client's experience and do not facilitate exploration of the client's expressed feelings. In addition, use of the word "why" is nontherapeutic.
- When the community health nurse visits a client at home, the client states, "I haven't slept at all the last couple of nights." Which response by the nurse illustrates a therapeutic communication response to this client?
- "I see."
- "Really?"
- "You're having difficulty sleeping?"
- "Sometimes, I have trouble sleeping too." - Correct Answers 3 The correct option uses the therapeutic communication technique of restatement. Although restatement is a technique that has a prompting component to it, it repeats the client's major theme, which assists the nurse to obtain a more specific perception of the problem from the client. The remaining options are not therapeutic responses since none encourage the client to expand on the problem. Offering personal experiences moves the focus away from the client and onto the nurse.
- A client experiencing disturbed thought processes believes that his food is being poisoned. Which communication technique should the nurse use to encourage the client to eat?
- Using open-ended questions and silence
- Sharing personal preference regarding food choices
- Documenting reasons why the client does not want to eat
- Offering opinions about the necessity of adequate nutrition - Correct Answers 1 Open-ended questions and silence are strategies used to encourage clients to discuss their problems. Sharing personal food preferences is not a client-centered intervention. The remaining options are not helpful to the client because they do not encourage the client to express feelings. The nurse should not offer opinions and should encourage the client to identify the reasons for the behavior.
- A client admitted to a mental health unit for treatment of psychotic behavior spends hours at the locked exit door shouting, "Let me out. There's nothing wrong with me. I don't belong here." What defense mechanism is the client implementing?
- Denial
- Projection
- Regression
- Rationalization - Correct Answers 1 Denial is refusal to admit to a painful reality, which is treated as if it does not exist. In projection, a person unconsciously rejects emotionally unacceptable features and attributes them to other persons, objects, or situations. Regression allows the client to return to an earlier, more comforting, although less mature, way of behaving. Rationalization is justifying illogical or unreasonable ideas, actions, or feelings by developing acceptable explanations that satisfy the teller and the listener.
- A client diagnosed with terminal cancer says to the nurse, "I'm going to die, and I wish my family would stop hoping for a cure! I get so angry when they carry on like this. After all, I'm the one who's dying." Which response by the nurse is therapeutic?
- "Have you shared your feelings with your family?"
- "I think we should talk more about your anger with your family."
- "You're feeling angry that your family continues to hope for you to be cured?"
- "You are probably very depressed, which is understandable with such a diagnosis." - Correct Answers 3 Restating is a therapeutic communication technique in which the nurse repeats what the client says to show understanding and to review what was said. While it is appropriate for the nurse to attempt to assess the client's
ability to discuss feelings openly with family members, it does not help the client discuss the feelings causing the anger. The nurse's attempt to focus on the central issue of anger is premature. The nurse would never make a judgment regarding the reason for the client's feeling; this is nontherapeutic in the one-to-one relationship.
- On review of the client's record, the nurse notes that the admission was voluntary. Based on this information, the nurse anticipates which client behavior?
- Fearfulness regarding treatment measures.
- Anger and aggressiveness directed toward others.
- An understanding of the pathology and symptoms of the diagnosis.
- A willingness to participate in the planning of the care and treatment plan. - Correct Answers 4 In general, clients seek voluntary admission. If a client seeks voluntary admission, the most likely expectation is that the client will participate in the treatment program since they are actively seeking help. The remaining options are not characteristics of this type of admission. Fearfulness, anger, and aggressiveness are more characteristic of an involuntary admission. Voluntary admission does not guarantee a client's understanding of their illness, only of their desire for help.
- A client admitted voluntarily for treatment of an anxiety disorder demands to be released from the hospital. Which action should the nurse take initially?
- Contact the client's health care provider (HCP).
- Call the client's family to arrange for transportation.
- Attempt to persuade the client to stay "for only a few more days."
- Tell the client that leaving would likely result in an involuntary commitment. - Correct Answers 1 In general, clients seek voluntary admission. Voluntary clients have the right to demand and obtain release. The nurse needs to be familiar with the state and facility policies and procedures. The best nursing action is to contact the HCP, who has the authority to discuss discharge with the client. While arranging for safe transportation is appropriate it is premature in this situation and should be done only with the client's permission. While it is appropriate to discuss why the client feels the need to leave and the possible outcomes of leaving against medical advice, attempting to get the client to agree to staying "a few more days" has little value and will not likely be successful. Many states require that the client submit a written
release notice to the facility staff members, who reevaluate the client's condition for possible conversion to involuntary status if necessary, according to criteria established by law. While this is a possibility, it should not be used as a threat to the client.
- When reviewing the admission assessment, the nurse notes that a client was admitted to the mental health unit involuntarily. Based on this type of admission, the nurse should provide which intervention for this client?
- Monitor closely for harm to self or others
- Assist in completing an application for admission
- Supply the client with written information about their mental illness
- Provide an opportunity for the family to discuss why they felt the admission was needed - Correct Answers 1 Involuntary admission is necessary when a person is a danger to self or others or is in need of psychiatric treatment regardless of the client's willingness to consent to the hospitalization. A written request is a component of a voluntary admission. Providing written information regarding the illness is likely premature initially. The family may have had no role to play in the client's admission.
- The nurse is preparing a client for the termination phase of the nurse- client relationship. The nurse prepares to implement which nursing task that is most appropriate for this phase?
- Planning short-term goals
- Making appropriate referrals
- Developing realistic solutions
- Identifying expected outcomes - Correct Answers 2 Tasks of the termination phase include evaluating client performance, evaluating achievement of expected outcomes, evaluating future needs, making appropriate referrals, and dealing with the common behaviors associated with termination. The remaining options identify tasks appropriate for the working phase of the relationship.
- The nurse is providing care to a client admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of acute anxiety disorder. The client says to the nurse, "I have a secret that I want to tell you. You won't tell anyone about it, will you?" What is the most appropriate nursing response?
- "No, I won't tell anyone."
- "I cannot promise to keep a secret."
- "It depends on what the secret is about."
- "If you tell me the secret, I may need to document it." - Correct Answers 2 The nurse should never promise to keep a secret. Secrets are never appropriate in a therapeutic relationship. The nurse needs to be honest and tell the client that a promise cannot be made to keep the secret. The remaining options are inappropriate responses since they either promise to keep the secret or provide the criteria for when a secret may be appropriately kept.
- The nurse employed in a mental health clinic is greeted by a neighbor in a local grocery store. The neighbor says to the nurse, "How is Carol doing? She is my best friend and is seen at your clinic every week." Which is the most appropriate nursing response?
- "I cannot discuss any client situation with you."
- "If you want to know about Carol, you need to ask her yourself."
- "Only because you're worried about a friend, I'll tell you that she is improving."
- " Being her friend, you know she is having a difficult time and deserves her privacy." - Correct Answers 1 The nurse is required to maintain confidentiality regarding the client and the client's care. Confidentiality is basic to the therapeutic relationship and is a client's right. The most appropriate response to the neighbor is the statement of that responsibility in a direct, but polite manner. A blunt statement that does not acknowledge why the nurse cannot reveal client information may be taken as disrespectful and uncaring. The remaining options identify statements that do not maintain client confidentiality.
- The nurse calls security and has physical restraints applied when a client who was admitted voluntarily becomes both physically and verbally abusive while demanding to be discharged from the hospital. Which represents the possible legal ramifications for the nurse associated with these interventions? Select all that apply.
- Libel
- Battery
- Assault
- Slander
- False imprisonment - Correct Answers 2, 3, 5 False imprisonment is an act with the intent to confine a person to a specific area. The nurse can be charged with false imprisonment if the
nurse prohibits a client from leaving the hospital if the client has been admitted voluntarily and if no agency or legal policies exist for detaining the client. Assault and battery are related to the act of restraining the client in a situation that did not meet criteria for such an intervention. Libel and slander are not applicable here since the nurse did not write or verbally make untrue statements about the client.
- The nurse in the mental health unit recognizes which as being therapeutic communication techniques? Select all that apply.
- Restating
- Listening
- Asking the client, "Why?"
- Maintaining neutral responses
- Providing acknowledgment and feedback
- Giving advice and approval or disapproval - Correct Answers 1, 2, 4, 5 Therapeutic communication techniques include listening, maintaining silence, maintaining neutral responses, using broad openings and open- ended questions, focusing and refocusing, restating, clarifying and validating, sharing perceptions, reflecting, providing acknowledgment and feedback, giving information, presenting reality, encouraging formulation of a plan of action, providing nonverbal encouragement, and summarizing. Asking why is often interpreted as being accusatory by the client and should also be avoided. Providing advice or giving approval or disapproval are barriers to communication.
- A client being seen in the emergency department immediately after being sexually assaulted appears calm and controlled. The nurse analyzes this behavior as indicating which defense mechanism?
- Denial
- Projection
- Rationalization
- Intellectualization - Correct Answers 1 Denial is refusal to admit to a painful reality and may be a response by a victim of sexual abuse. In this case the client is not acknowledging the trauma of the assault either verbally or nonverbally. Projection is transferring one's internal feelings, thoughts, and unacceptable ideas and traits to someone else. Rationalization is justifying the unacceptable attributes about oneself. Intellectualization is the excessive use of abstract thinking or generalizations to decrease painful thinking.
- A client's unresolved feelings related to loss would be most likely observed during which phase of the therapeutic nurse-client relationship?
- Trusting
- Working
- Orientation
- Termination - Correct Answers 4 In the termination phase, the relationship comes to a close. Ending treatment sometimes may be traumatic for clients who have come to value the relationship and the help. Because loss is an issue, any unresolved feelings related to loss may resurface during this phase. The remaining options are not specifically associated with this issue of unresolved feelings.
- The nurse is working with a client who despite making a heroic effort was unable to rescue a neighbor trapped in a house fire. Which client- focused action should the nurse engage in during the working phase of the nurse-client relationship?
- Exploring the client's ability to function
- Exploring the client's potential for self-harm
- Inquiring about the client's perception or appraisal of why the rescue was unsuccessful
- Inquiring about and examining the client's feelings for any that may block adaptive coping - Correct Answers 4 The client must first deal with feelings and negative responses before the client can work through the meaning of the crisis. The correct option pertains directly to the client's feelings and is client-focused. The remaining options do not directly focus on or address the client's feelings.
- Which statement demonstrates the best understanding of the nurse's role regarding ensuring that each client's rights are respected?
- "Autonomy is the fundamental right of each and every client."
- "A client's rights are guaranteed by both state and federal laws."
- "Being respectful and concerned will ensure that I'm attentive to my clients' rights."
- "Regardless of the client's condition, all nurses have the duty to respect client rights." - Correct Answers 3 The nurse needs to respect and have concern for the client; this is vital to protecting the client's rights. While it is true the autonomy is a basic client right, there are other rights that must also be both respected and facilitated. State and federal laws do protect a client's rights, but it is sensitivity to
those rights that will ensure that the nurse secures these rights for the client. It is a fact that safeguarding a client's rights is a nursing responsibility, but stating that fact does not show understanding or respect for the concept.
- The nurse employed in a mental health unit of a hospital is the leader of a group psychotherapy session. What is the nurse's role during the termination stage of group development?
- Acknowledging that the group has identified goals
- Encouraging the accomplishment of the group's work
- Acknowledging the contributions of each group member
- Encouraging members to become acquainted with one another - Correct Answers 3 In the termination stage, the group leader's task is to acknowledge the contributions of each member and the experience of the group as a whole. In this stage, the group members prepare for separation and assist each other to prepare for the future. Acknowledging that the group has identified goals and encouraging group bonding both occur during the initial stage. Encouraging accomplishment of the group's work is appropriate during the working stage.
- Which are characteristics of the termination stage of group development? Select all that apply.
- The group evaluates the experience.
- The real work of the group is accomplished.
- Group interaction involves superficial conversation.
- Group members become acquainted with each other.
- Some structuring of group norms, roles, and responsibilities takes place.
- The group explores members' feelings about the group and the impending separation. - Correct Answers 1, 6 The stages of group development include the initial stage, the working stage, and the termination stage. During the initial stage, the group members become acquainted with each other, and some structuring of group norms, roles, and responsibilities takes place. During the initial stage, group interaction involves superficial conversation. During the working stage, the real work of the group is accomplished. During the termination stage, the group evaluates the experience and explores members' feelings about the group and the impending separation.
- When a client is admitted to an inpatient mental health unit with the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, a cognitive behavioral approach is used as part of the treatment plan. The nurse understands that which is the purpose of this approach?
- Providing a supportive environment
- Examining intrapsychic conflicts and past issues
- Emphasizing social interaction with clients who withdraw
- Helping the client to examine dysfunctional thoughts and beliefs - Correct Answers 4 Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help the client identify and examine dysfunctional thoughts and to identify and examine values and beliefs that maintain these thoughts. The remaining options, while therapeutic in certain situations, are not the focus of cognitive behavioral therapy.
- The nurse understands that which best describes Gestalt therapy?
- It emphasizes self-expression, self-exploration, and self-awareness in the present.
- It promotes the individual's comfort in the group, which then transfers to other relationships.
- The therapist focuses on how irrational beliefs and thoughts contribute to psychological distress.
- The therapist's goal is to help others express their feelings toward one another during group sessions. - Correct Answers 1 Gestalt therapy emphasizes self-expression, self-exploration, and self- awareness in the present. The client and therapist focus on everyday problems and try to solve them. Interpersonal group therapy promotes the individual's comfort in the group, which then transfers to other relationships. In rational emotive therapy, the therapist focuses on how irrational beliefs and thoughts contribute to psychological distress. In Rogerian therapy, the therapist's goal is to help others express their feelings toward one another during group sessions.
- A client is preparing to attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting for the first time. The nurse should tell the client that which is the first step in this 12-step program?
- Admitting to having a problem
- Substituting other activities for gambling
- Stating that the gambling will be stopped
- Discontinuing relationships with people who gamble - Correct Answers 1
The first step in the 12-step program is to admit that a problem exists. Substituting other activities for gambling may be a strategy but it is not the first step. The remaining options are not realistic strategies for the initial step in a 12-step program.
- Which describes the primary focus of milieu therapy?
- A form of behavior modification therapy
- A cognitive approach to changing behavior
- A living, learning, or working environment
- A behavioral approach to changing behavior - Correct Answers 3 Milieu therapy, or "therapeutic community," has as its focus a living, learning, or working environment. Such therapy may be based on numerous therapeutic modalities ranging from structured behavioral therapy to spontaneous, humanistically oriented approaches. Although milieu therapy may include behavioral approaches, the correct option describes its primary focus.
- While being treated, a client is introduced to short periods of exposure to the phobic object while in a relaxed state. What term is used to describe this form of behavior modification?
- Milieu therapy
- Aversion therapy
- Self-control therapy
- Systematic desensitization - Correct Answers 4 Systematic desensitization is a form of therapy used when the client is introduced to short periods of exposure to the phobic object while in a relaxed state. Exposure is gradually increased until the anxiety about or fear of the object or situation has ceased. Milieu management refers to providing a safe, therapeutic environment and is applicable to not just this scenario. The remaining options are incorrect since they do not involve the intervention described.
- A client is planning to attend Overeaters Anonymous. Which statement by the client indicates a need for additional information regarding this self-help group?
- "The leader is a nurse or psychiatrist."
- "The members provide support to each other."
- "People who have a similar problem are able to help others."
- "It is designed to serve people who have a common problem." - Correct Answers 1
The sponsor of a self-help group is an experienced member of the group. The nurse or psychiatrist may be asked by the group to serve as a resource, but would not be the leader of the group. The remaining options are characteristics of a self-help group.
- What is the most appropriate nursing action to help manage a manic client who is monopolizing a group therapy session?
- Ask the client to leave the group for this session only.
- Refer the client to another group that includes other manic clients.
- Tell the client to stop monopolizing in a firm but compassionate manner.
- Thank the client for the input, but inform the client that now others need a chance to contribute. - Correct Answers 4 If a client is monopolizing the group, the nurse must be direct and decisive. The best action is to thank the client and suggest that the client stop talking and try listening to others. Although telling the client to stop monopolizing in a firm but compassionate manner may be a direct response, the correct option is more specific and provides direction for the client. The remaining options are inappropriate since they are not directed towards helping the client in a therapeutic manner.
- Which type of therapeutic approach has the characteristic that all team members are seen as equally important in helping clients meet their goals?
- Milieu therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
- Behavior modification
- Rational emotive therapy - Correct Answers 1 All treatment team members are viewed as significant and valuable to the client's successful treatment outcomes in milieu therapy. Interpersonal therapy is based on a one-to-one or group therapy approach in which the therapist-client relationship is often used as a way for the client to examine other relationships in his or her life. Behavior modification is based on rewards and punishment. Rational emotive therapy deals with the correction of distorted thinking.
- A client says to the nurse, "The federal guards were sent to kill me." What is the best nursing response to the client's concern?
- "I don't believe this is true."
- "The guards are not out to kill you."
- "Do you feel afraid that people are trying to hurt you?"
- "What makes you think the guards were sent to hurt you?" - Correct Answers 3 It is most therapeutic for the nurse to empathize with the client's experience. The remaining options lack this connection with the client. Disagreeing with delusions may make the client more defensive, and the client may cling to the delusions even more. Encouraging discussion regarding the delusion is inappropriate.
- A client diagnosed with delirium becomes disoriented and confused at night. Which intervention should the nurse implement initially?
- Move the client next to the nurse's station.
- Use an indirect light source and turn off the television.
- Keep the television and a soft light on during the night.
- Play soft music during the night, and maintain a well-lit room. - Correct Answers 2 Provision of a consistent daily routine and a low stimulating environment is important when a client is disoriented. Noise, including radio and television, may add to the confusion and disorientation. Moving the client next to the nurses' station may become necessary but is not the initial action.
- A client is admitted to the mental health unit with a diagnosis of depression. The nurse should develop a plan of care for the client that includes which intervention?
- Encouraging quiet reading and writing for the first few days
- Identification of physical activities that will provide exercise
- No socializing activities, until the client asks to participate in milieu
- A structured program of activities in which the client can participate - Correct Answers 4 A client with depression often is withdrawn while experiencing difficulty concentrating, loss of interest or pleasure, low energy, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness and poor self-esteem. The plan of care needs to provide successful experiences in a stimulating yet structured environment. The remaining options are either too "restrictive" or offer little or no structure and stimulation.
- When planning the discharge of a client with chronic anxiety, the nurse directs the goals at promoting a safe environment at home. Which is the most appropriate maintenance goal?
- Suppressing feelings of anxiety
- Identifying anxiety-producing situations
- Continued contact with a crisis counselor
- Eliminating all anxiety from daily situations - Correct Answers 2 Recognizing situations that produce anxiety allows the client to prepare to cope with anxiety or avoid a specific stimulus. Counselors will not be available for all anxiety-producing situations, and this option does not encourage the development of internal strengths. Suppressing feelings will not resolve anxiety. Elimination of all anxiety from life is impossible.
- A client is unwilling to go out of the house for fear of "making a fool of myself in public." Because of this fear, the client remains homebound. Based on these data, which mental health disorder is the client experiencing?
- Agoraphobia
- Social phobia
- Claustrophobia
- Hypochondriasis - Correct Answers 2 Social phobia is a fear of situations in which one might be embarrassed or criticized, such as the fear of speaking, performing, or eating in public. The person fears making a fool of oneself. Agoraphobia is a fear of open spaces and the fear of being trapped in a situation from which there may not be an escape. Claustrophobia is a fear of closed places. Clients with hypochondriacal symptoms focus their anxiety on physical complaints and are preoccupied with their health.
- The nurse is conducting a group therapy session. During the session, a client diagnosed with mania consistently disrupts the group's interactions. Which intervention should the nurse initially implement?
- Setting limits on the client's behavior
- Asking the client to leave the group session
- Asking another nurse to escort the client out of the group session
- Telling the client that they will not be able to attend any future group sessions - Correct Answers 1 Manic clients may be talkative and can dominate group meetings or therapy sessions by their excessive talking. If this occurs, the nurse initially would set limits on the client's behavior. Initially, asking the client to leave the session or asking another person to escort the client out of the session is inappropriate. This may agitate the client and escalate the client's behavior further. Barring the client from group sessions is also an
inappropriate action because it violates the client's right to receive treatment and is a threatening action.
- A client is admitted to a medical nursing unit with a diagnosis of acute blindness after being involved in a hit-and-run accident. When diagnostic testing cannot identify any organic reason why this client cannot see, a mental health consult is prescribed. Which condition will be the focus of this consult?
- Psychosis
- Repression
- Conversion disorder
- Dissociative disorder - Correct Answers 3 A conversion disorder is the alteration or loss of a physical function that cannot be explained by any known pathophysiological mechanism. A conversion disorder is thought to be an expression of a psychological need or conflict. In this situation, the client witnessed an accident that was so psychologically painful that the client became blind. Psychosis is a state in which a person's mental capacity to recognize reality, communicate, and relate to others is impaired, interfering with the person's ability to deal with life's demands. Repression is a coping mechanism in which unacceptable feelings are kept out of awareness. A dissociative disorder is a disturbance or alteration in the normally integrative functions of identity, memory, or consciousness.
- A manic client begins to make sexual advance towards visitors in the dayroom. When the nurse firmly states that this is inappropriate and will not be allowed, the client becomes verbally abusive and threatens physical violence to the nurse. Based on the analysis of this situation, which intervention should the nurse implement?
- Place the client in seclusion for 30 minutes.
- Tell the client that the behavior is inappropriate.
- Escort the client to their room, with the assistance of other staff.
- Tell the client that their telephone privileges are revoked for 24 hours. - Correct Answers 3 The client is at risk for injury to self and others and should be escorted out of the dayroom. Seclusion is premature in this situation. Telling the client that the behavior is inappropriate has already been attempted by the nurse. Denying privileges may increase the agitation that already exists in this client.
- Which nursing interventions are appropriate for a hospitalized client with mania who is exhibiting manipulative behavior? Select all that apply.
- Communicate expected behaviors to the client.
- Ensure that the client knows that they are not in charge of the nursing unit.
- Assist the client in identifying ways of setting limits on personal behaviors.
- Follow through about the consequences of behavior in a nonpunitive manner.
- Enforce rules by informing the client that they will not be allowed to attend therapy groups.
- Have the client state the consequences for behaving in ways that are viewed as unacceptable. - Correct Answers 1, 3, 4, 6 Interventions for dealing with the client exhibiting manipulative behavior include setting clear, consistent, and enforceable limits on manipulative behaviors; being clear with the client regarding the consequences of exceeding limits set; following through with the consequences in a nonpunitive manner; and assisting the client in identifying means of setting limits on personal behaviors. Ensuring that the client knows that he or she is not in charge of the nursing unit is inappropriate; power struggles need to be avoided. Enforcing rules and informing the client that he or she will not be allowed to attend therapy groups is a violation of a client's rights.
- The nurse observes that a client is pacing, agitated, and presenting aggressive gestures. The client's speech pattern is rapid, and affect is belligerent. Based on these observations, what is the nurse's immediate priority of care?
- Provide safety for the client and other clients on the unit.
- Provide the clients on the unit with a sense of comfort and safety.
- Assist the staff in caring for the client in a controlled environment.
- Offer the client a less stimulating area to calm down in and gain control. - Correct Answers 1 Safety of the client and other clients is the priority. The correct option is the only one that addresses the safety needs of the client as well as those of the other clients.
- The nurse is preparing a client with a history of command hallucinations for discharge by providing instructions on interventions for managing hallucinations and anxiety. Which statement in response to these
instructions suggests to the nurse that the client understands the instructions?
- "My medications aren't likely to make me anxious."
- "I'll go to support group and talk so that I don't hurt anyone."
- "It's not likely that I'll get anxious or hear things if I get enough sleep and eat well."
- "When I begin to hallucinate, I'll call my therapist and talk about what I should do." - Correct Answers 4 The risk for impulsive and aggressive behavior may increase if a client is receiving command hallucinations to harm self or others. If the client is experiencing a hallucination, the nurse should ask the client whether he or she has intentions to hurt him- or herself or others. Talking about auditory hallucinations can interfere with subvocal muscular activity associated with a hallucination. The client statements in the remaining options will aid in wellness, but are not specific interventions for hallucinations, if they occur.
- The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with catatonic stupor who is lying on the bed in a fetal position. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
- Ask direct questions to encourage talking.
- Leave the client alone so as to minimize external stimuli.
- Sit beside the client in silence with occasional open-ended questions.
- Take the client into the dayroom with other clients so that they can help watch him. - Correct Answers 3 Clients who are withdrawn may be immobile and mute and may require consistent, repeated approaches. Communication with withdrawn clients requires much patience from the nurse. Interventions include the establishment of interpersonal contact. The nurse facilitates communication with the client by sitting in silence, asking open-ended questions rather than direct questions, and pausing to provide opportunities for the client to respond. While overstimulation is not appropriate, there is no therapeutic value in ignoring the client. The client's safety is not the responsibility of other clients.
- The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing disturbed thought processes as a result of paranoia. In formulating nursing interventions with the members of the health care team, what best instruction should the nurse provide to the staff?
- Increase socialization of the client with peers.
- Avoid laughing or whispering in front of the client.
- Begin to educate the client about social supports in the community.
- Have the client sign a release of information to appropriate parties for assessment purposes. - Correct Answers 2 Disturbed thought process related to paranoia is the client's problem, and the plan of care must address this problem. The client is experiencing paranoia and is distrustful and suspicious of others. The members of the health care team need to establish a rapport and trust with the client. Laughing or whispering in front of the client would be counterproductive. The remaining options ask the client to trust on a multitude of levels. These options are actions that are too intrusive for a client who is paranoid.
- The nurse is planning activities for a client diagnosed with bipolar disorder with aggressive social behavior. Which activity would be most appropriate for this client?
- Chess
- Writing
- Ping pong
- Basketball - Correct Answers 2 Solitary activities that require a short attention span with mild physical exertion are the most appropriate activities for a client who is exhibiting aggressive behavior. Writing (journaling), walks with staff, and finger painting are activities that minimize stimuli and provide a constructive release for tension. The remaining options have a competitive element to them and should be avoided because they can stimulate aggression and increase psychomotor activity.
- The home health nurse visits a client at home and determines that the client is dependent on drugs. During the assessment, which action should the nurse take to plan appropriate nursing care?
- Ask the client why he started taking illegal drugs.
- Ask the client about the amount of drug use and its effect.
- Ask the client how long he thought that he could take drugs without someone finding out.
- Not ask any questions for fear that the client is in denial and will throw the nurse out of the home. - Correct Answers 2 Whenever the nurse carries out an assessment for a client who is dependent on drugs, it is best for the nurse to attempt to elicit information by being nonjudgmental and direct. Option 1 is incorrect because it is judgmental and off-focus, and reflects the nurse's bias. Option 3 is incorrect because it is judgmental, insensitive, and aggressive, which is
nontherapeutic. Option 4 is incorrect because it indicates passivity on the nurse's part and uses rationalization to avoid the therapeutic nursing intervention.
- Which interventions are most appropriate for caring for a client in alcohol withdrawal? Select all that apply.
- Monitor vital signs.
- Maintain NPO status.
- Provide a safe environment.
- Address hallucinations therapeutically.
- Provide stimulation in the environment.
- Provide reality orientation as appropriate. - Correct Answers 1, 3, 4, 6 When the client is experiencing withdrawal from alcohol, the priority for care is to prevent the client from harming self or others. The nurse would provide a low-stimulation environment to maintain the client in as calm a state as possible. The nurse would monitor the vital signs closely and report abnormal findings. The nurse would reorient the client to reality frequently and would address hallucinations therapeutically. Adequate nutritional and fluid intake need to be maintained.
- The nurse determines that the wife of an alcoholic client is benefiting from attending an Al-Anon group if the nurse hears the wife make which statement?
- "I no longer feel that I deserve the beatings my husband inflicts on me."
- "My attendance at the meetings has helped me to see that I provoke my husband's violence."
- "I enjoy attending the meetings because they get me out of the house and away from my husband."
- "I can tolerate my husband's destructive behaviors now that I know they are common with alcoholics." - Correct Answers 1 Al-Anon support groups are a protected, supportive opportunity for spouses and significant others to learn what to expect and to obtain excellent pointers about successful behavioral changes. The correct option is the healthiest response because it exemplifies an understanding that the alcoholic partner is responsible for his behavior and cannot be allowed to blame family members for loss of control. Option 2 is incorrect because the nonalcoholic partner should not feel responsible when the spouse loses control. Option 3 indicates that the group is viewed as an escape, not as a place to work on issues. Option 4 indicates that the wife remains codependent.
- A hospitalized client with a history of alcohol abuse tells the nurse, "I am leaving now. I have to go. I don't want any more treatment. I have things that I have to do right away." The client has not been discharged and is scheduled for an important diagnostic test to be performed in 1 hour. After the nurse discusses the client's concerns with the client, the client dresses and begins to walk out of the hospital room. What action should the nurse take?
- Call the nursing supervisor.
- Call security to block all exit areas.
- Restrain the client until the health care provider (HCP) can be reached.
- Tell the client that the client cannot return to this hospital again if the client leaves now. - Correct Answers 1 Most health care facilities have documents that the client is asked to sign relating to the client's responsibilities when the client leaves against medical advice. The client should be asked to wait to speak to the HCP before leaving and to sign the "against medical advice" document before leaving. If the client refuses to do so, the nurse cannot hold the client against the client's will. Therefore, in this situation, the nurse should call the nursing supervisor. The nurse can be charged with false imprisonment if a client is made to believe wrongfully that he or she cannot leave the hospital. Restraining the client and calling security to block exits constitutes false imprisonment. All clients have a right to health care and cannot be told otherwise.
- The nurse is preparing to perform an admission assessment on a client with a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa. Which assessment findings does the nurse expect to note? Select all that apply.
- Dental decay
- Moist oily skin
- Loss of tooth enamel
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Body weight well below ideal range - Correct Answers 1, 3, 4 Clients with bulimia nervosa initially may not appear to be physically or emotionally ill. They are often at or slightly below ideal body weight. On further inspection, a client exhibits dental decay and loss of tooth enamel if the client has been inducing vomiting. Electrolyte imbalances are present. Dry, scaly skin (rather than moist, oily skin) is present.
- The nurse is caring for a female client who was admitted to the mental health unit recently for anorexia nervosa. The nurse enters the client's room and notes that the client is engaged in rigorous push-ups. Which nursing action is most appropriate?
- Interrupt the client and weigh her immediately.
- Interrupt the client and offer to take her for a walk.
- Allow the client to complete her exercise program.
- Tell the client that she is not allowed to exercise rigorously. - Correct Answers 2 Clients with anorexia nervosa frequently are preoccupied with rigorous exercise and push themselves beyond normal limits to work off caloric intake. The nurse must provide for appropriate exercise and place limits on rigorous activities. The correct option stops the harmful behavior yet provides the client with an activity to decrease anxiety that is not harmful. Weighing the client immediately reinforces the client's preoccupation with weight. Allowing the client
- A client with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, who is in a state of starvation, is in a two-bed room. A newly admitted client will be assigned to this client's room. Which client would be the best choice as a roommate for the client with anorexia nervosa?
- A client with pneumonia
- A client undergoing diagnostic tests
- A client who thrives on managing others
- A client who could benefit from the client's assistance at mealtime - Correct Answers 2 The client undergoing diagnostic tests is an acceptable roommate. The client with anorexia nervosa is most likely experiencing hematological complications, such as leukopenia. Having a roommate with pneumonia would place the client with anorexia nervosa at risk for infection. The client with anorexia nervosa should not be put in a situation in which the client can focus on the nutritional needs of others or be managed by others because this may contribute to sublimation and suppression of personal hunger.
- The nurse is monitoring a hospitalized client who abuses alcohol. Which findings should alert the nurse to the potential for alcohol withdrawal delirium?
- Hypotension, ataxia, hunger
- Stupor, lethargy, muscular rigidity
- Hypotension, coarse hand tremors, lethargy
- Hypertension, changes in level of consciousness, hallucinations - Correct Answers 4 Symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal delirium typically include anxiety, insomnia, anorexia, hypertension, disorientation, hallucinations, changes in level of consciousness, agitation, fever, and delusions.
- The spouse of a client admitted to the mental health unit for alcohol withdrawal says to the nurse, "I should get out of this bad situation." What is the most helpful response by the nurse?
- "Why don't you tell your wife about this?"
- "What do you find difficult about this situation?"
- "This is not the best time to make that decision."
- "I agree with you. You should get out of this situation." - Correct Answers 2 The most helpful response is one that encourages the client to solve problems. Giving advice implies that the nurse knows what is best and can foster dependency. The nurse should not agree with the client, and the nurse should not request that the client provide explanations.
- A client with anorexia nervosa is a member of a predischarge support group. The client verbalizes that she would like to buy some new clothes, but her finances are limited. Group members have brought some used clothes to the client to replace the client's old clothes. The client believes that the new clothes were much too tight and has reduced her calorie intake to 800 calories daily. How should the nurse evaluate this behavior?
- Normal behavior
- Evidence of the client's disturbed body image
- Regression as the client is moving toward the community
- Indicative of the client's ambivalence about hospital discharge - Correct Answers 2 Disturbed body image is a concern with clients with anorexia nervosa. Although the client may struggle with ambivalence and show regressed behavior, the client's coping pattern relates to the basic issue of disturbed body image. The nurse should address this need in the support group.
- The nurse in the emergency department is caring for a young female victim of sexual assault. The client's physical assessment is complete, and physical evidence has been collected. The nurse notes that the client is
withdrawn, confused, and at times physically immobile. How should the nurse interpret these behaviors?
- Signs of depression
- Normal reactions to a devastating event
- Evidence that the client is a high suicide risk
- Indicative of the need for hospital admission - Correct Answers 2 During the acute phase of the rape crisis, the client can display a wide range of emotional and somatic responses. The symptoms noted indicate a normal reaction. Options 1, 3, and 4 are incorrect interpretations.
- The nurse is reviewing the assessment data of a client admitted to the mental health unit. The nurse notes that the admission nurse documented that the client is experiencing anxiety as a result of a situational crisis. The nurse determines that this type of crisis could be caused by which event?
- Witnessing a murder
- The death of a loved one
- A fire that destroyed the client's home
- A recent rape episode experienced by the client - Correct Answers 2 A situational crisis arises from external rather than internal sources. External situations that could precipitate a crisis include loss of or change of a job, the death of a loved one, abortion, change in financial status, divorce, addition of new family members, pregnancy, and severe illness. Options 1, 3, and 4 identify adventitious crises. An adventitious crisis refers to a crisis of disaster; it is unplanned or accidental.
- The nurse is conducting an initial assessment on a client in crisis. When assessing the client's perception of the precipitating event that led to the crisis, what is the most appropriate question?
- "With whom do you live?"
- "Who is available to help you?"
- "What leads you to seek help now?"
- "What do you usually do to feel better?" - Correct Answers 3 The nurse's initial task when assessing a client in crisis is to assess the individual or family and the problem. The more clearly the problem can be defined, the better the chance a solution can be found. The correct option would assist in determining data related to the precipitating event that led to the crisis. Options 1 and 2 assess situational supports. Option 4 assesses personal coping skills.
- The nurse is developing a plan of care for a client in a crisis state. When developing the plan, the nurse should consider which factor?
- A crisis state indicates that the client has a mental illness.
- A crisis state indicates that the client has an emotional illness.
- Presenting symptoms in a crisis situation are similar for all clients experiencing a crisis.
- A client's response to a crisis is individualized and what constitutes a crisis for one client may not constitute a crisis for another client. - Correct Answers 4 Although each crisis response can be described in similar terms as far as presenting symptoms are concerned, what constitutes a crisis for one client may not constitute a crisis for another client because each is a unique individual. Being in the crisis state does not mean that the client has a mental or emotional illness.
- The nurse observes that a client with a potential for violence is agitated, pacing up and down the hallway, and is making aggressive and belligerent gestures at other clients. Which statement would be most appropriate to make to this client?
- "You need to stop that behavior now."
- "You will need to be placed in seclusion."
- "You seem restless; tell me what is happening."
- "You will need to be restrained if you do not change your behavior." - Correct Answers 3 The best statement is to ask the client what is causing the agitation. This will assist the client to become aware of the behavior and may assist the nurse in planning appropriate interventions for the client. Option 1 is demanding behavior that could cause increased agitation in the client. Options 2 and 4 are threats to the client and are inappropriate.
- A depressed client on an inpatient unit says to the nurse, "My family would be better off without me." What is the nurse's best response?
- "Have you talked to your family about this?"
- "Everyone feels this way when they are depressed."
- "You will feel better once your medication begins to work."
- "You sound very upset. Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" - Correct Answers 4 Clients who are depressed may be at risk for suicide. It is critical for the nurse to assess suicidal ideation and plan. The nurse should ask the client
directly whether a plan for self-harm exists. Options 1, 2, and 3 do not deal directly with the client's feelings.
- The nurse has been observing a client closely who has been displaying aggressive behaviors. The nurse observes that the behavior displayed by the client is escalating. Which nursing intervention is least helpful to this client at this time?
- Initiate confinement measures.
- Acknowledge the client's behavior.
- Assist the client to an area that is quiet.
- Maintain a safe distance from the client. - Correct Answers 1 During the escalation period, the client's behavior is moving toward loss of control. Nursing actions include taking control, maintaining a safe distance, acknowledging behavior, moving the client to a quiet area, and medicating the client if appropriate. To initiate confinement measures during this period is inappropriate. Initiation of confinement measures, if needed, is most appropriate during the crisis period.
- Which behavior observed by the nurse indicates a suspicion that a depressed adolescent client may be suicidal?
- The adolescent gives away a DVD and a cherished autographed picture of a performer.
- The adolescent runs out of the therapy group, swearing at the group leader, and runs to her room.
- The adolescent becomes angry while speaking on the telephone and slams down the receiver.
- The adolescent gets angry with her roommate when the roommate borrows the client's clothes without asking. - Correct Answers 1 A depressed suicidal client often gives away that which is of value as a way of saying goodbye and wanting to be remembered. Options 2, 3, and 4 deal with anger and acting-out behaviors that are often typical of any adolescent.
- The police arrive at the emergency department with a client who has lacerated both wrists. What is the initial nursing action?
- Administer an antianxiety agent.
- Examine and treat the wound sites.
- Secure and record a detailed history.
- Encourage and assist the client to ventilate feelings. - Correct Answers 2 The initial nursing action is to assess and treat the self-inflicted injuries. Injuries from lacerated wrists can lead to a lifethreatening situation. Other interventions, such as options 1, 3, and 4, may follow after the client has been treated medically.
- A moderately depressed client who was hospitalized 2 days ago suddenly begins smiling and reporting that the crisis is over. The client says to the nurse, "I'm finally cured." How should the nurse interpret this behavior as a cue to modify the treatment plan?
- Suggesting a reduction of medication
- Allowing increased "in-room" activities
- Increasing the level of suicide precautions
- Allowing the client off-unit privileges as needed - Correct Answers 3 A client who is moderately depressed and has only been in the hospital 2 days is unlikely to have such a dramatic cure. When a depression suddenly lifts, it is likely that the client may have made the decision to harm himself or herself. Suicide precautions are necessary to keep the client safe. The remaining options are therefore incorrect interpretations.
- The nurse is planning care for a client being admitted to the nursing unit who attempted suicide. Which priority nursing intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- One-to-one suicide precautions
- Suicide precautions with 30-minute checks
- Checking the whereabouts of the client every 15 minutes
- Asking the client to report suicidal thoughts immediately - Correct Answers 1 One-to-one suicide precautions are required for a client who has attempted suicide. Options 2 and 3 may be appropriate, but not at the present time, considering the situation. Option 4 also may be an appropriate nursing intervention, but the priority is identified in the correct option. The best intervention is constant supervision so that the nurse may intervene as needed if the client attempts to harm himself or herself.
- The emergency department nurse is caring for an adult client who is a victim of family violence. Which priority instruction should be included in the discharge instructions?
- Information regarding shelters