A depressed client states, I have a chemical imbalance in my brain. I have no control over my behavior. Medications are my only hope to feel normal again. Which nursing response is appropriate?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's perspective and beliefs about their depression being solely due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, it is also essential to educate the client about the complex interplay between biological, environmental, and interpersonal factors in mental health. By expressing that medications are one way to address chemical imbalances but pointing out that other factors can also impact mental health, the nurse encourages a more holistic view of mental well-being. This response opens up the conversation to the possibility of exploring various treatment options beyond just medication, such as therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support. It promotes a collaborative approach to managing depression that considers the individual as a whole rather than focusing solely on biological factors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Anorexia nervosa is a mental illness that is typically associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone levels. Prolactin is responsible for various functions in the body, including milk production in females. In individuals with anorexia nervosa, the body experiences hormonal imbalances due to malnutrition and extreme weight loss, leading to decreased levels of prolactin. Therefore, a nurse should identify anorexia nervosa as the mental illness associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone level.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. A decrease in GABA levels can lead to increased excitability in the brain, which is associated with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. GABA acts as a calming agent, helping to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Individuals with panic disorder may have lower levels of GABA, contributing to their symptoms of intense fear and anxiety attacks. Therefore, a decrease in GABA levels is most closely associated with panic disorder among the options provided.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: There is a possible correlation between abnormal secretion of growth hormone and anorexia nervosa. Imbalances in growth hormone secretion have been associated with anorexia nervosa, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of the disorder. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to include this information when explaining the causes of anorexia nervosa to the client.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Taking no action is still considered an action by the coworker. In this situation, the coworker witnessing the unauthorized administration of an extra dose of narcotic tranquilizer has a moral and ethical responsibility to intervene and prevent harm to the client. By choosing not to act, the coworker is passively allowing a potentially harmful situation to occur, which can be seen as complicity in the wrongdoing. Ethical principles dictate that individuals have a duty to act when they witness unethical or harmful behavior, even if it may be difficult or lead to repercussions. Thus, inaction in such a scenario does not release the coworker from ethical responsibility.