A client is admitted to a psychiatric unit with the diagnosis of catatonic schizophrenia. Which of the clients neurotransmitters should a nurse expect to be elevated?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In catatonic schizophrenia, a client may exhibit symptoms such as immobility, mutism, or repetitive movements, which are associated with an excess of dopamine activity in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating movement, emotions, and pleasure. In conditions like catatonic schizophrenia, the imbalance of dopamine neurotransmission may contribute to the characteristic symptoms observed in the client.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The neurotransmitter serotonin is catabolized by the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO). This enzyme plays a key role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. MAO breaks down these neurotransmitters by oxidizing the monoamine molecules. In the case of serotonin, MAO helps convert it into its primary metabolite, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA). Inhibitors of MAO, such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), can affect the levels of serotonin in the brain by blocking its breakdown, which can have therapeutic effects in certain conditions like depression and anxiety.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The charge nurse's statement aligns with the principles of Kantianism, which is based on the philosophy of Immanuel Kant. Kantianism emphasizes the importance of treating individuals with respect and dignity, viewing them as ends in themselves rather than means to an end. In this case, the charge nurse is demonstrating a sense of duty and compassion towards mentally ill clients, highlighting the belief that everyone deserves caring and empathetic treatment, regardless of the situation. Kant would support the idea that individuals should be treated with kindness and empathy, based on the principle of treating others as you would want to be treated in a similar situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Clients have the legal right to refuse any treatment, including pharmacological, psychological, or procedures like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This right is essential as it upholds the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own healthcare. While healthcare providers may strongly recommend certain treatments based on their professional judgment, they cannot force a client to undergo any treatment against their will, except in cases where the client poses an imminent threat to themselves or others (such as being actively suicidal or homicidal). In those instances, there are specific protocols and legal procedures that must be followed to ensure the safety of all involved.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The violation of an ethical principle in this scenario is justice. Justice in healthcare refers to the fair and equal treatment of individuals. When the inpatient psychiatric physician refuses to treat clients without insurance and prematurely discharges those whose insurance benefits have expired, they are not upholding the principles of justice. This behavior results in unequal treatment based on insurance status, which goes against the ethical principle of justice. All individuals should have access to healthcare services regardless of their insurance status to ensure fairness and equity in healthcare delivery.