A nurse is caring for a child whose guardians report that the child is consistently unable to speak during class and other social situations. The nurse should identify that the child is experiencing which of the following anxiety disorders?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Selective mutism. Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by a consistent failure to speak in specific social situations where there is an expectation to speak, despite speaking in other situations. In this case, the child is able to speak in other settings but is consistently unable to speak in class and social situations, indicating selective mutism. Option A) Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive worry and anxiety about a variety of events or activities, not just speaking in specific situations like selective mutism. Option B) Agoraphobia involves fear and avoidance of situations or places that might cause panic, not necessarily related to speaking. Option C) Separation anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive anxiety about separation from home or major attachment figures, not specifically related to speaking difficulties in social situations. Educationally, understanding the nuances of different anxiety disorders is crucial for nurses working with children. Recognizing selective mutism can help nurses provide appropriate support and interventions to help the child overcome their communication challenges in specific social contexts. It is important to differentiate between anxiety disorders to provide tailored care and support for individuals experiencing these conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Basal ganglia, extended amygdala, and prefrontal cortex. Understanding the neurobiology of addiction is crucial in behavioral nursing. The reward pathway involving these brain regions plays a significant role in addiction. The basal ganglia is responsible for reward processing and reinforcement learning, the extended amygdala is involved in stress response and negative emotions linked to addiction, and the prefrontal cortex regulates decision-making and impulse control, both of which are impaired in addiction. Option A) Prefrontal cortex, brain stem, and frontal cortex: While the prefrontal cortex is involved in decision-making and impulse control, the other regions mentioned are not primarily implicated in the reward pathway related to addiction. Option B) Cerebellum, pons, and medulla oblongata: These brain areas are not typically associated with the reward pathway or addiction. The cerebellum is more related to motor control, while the pons and medulla oblongata are involved in basic life functions like breathing and heart rate. Option D) Midbrain, cerebrum, and temporal lobe: While the midbrain does contain some structures involved in the reward pathway, the cerebrum and temporal lobe are not the primary regions implicated in addiction. Educationally, understanding the neurobiological basis of addiction helps nurses comprehend the behaviors and challenges faced by individuals struggling with substance use disorders. It also informs nursing interventions and treatment strategies aimed at addressing the complex interplay between brain function and addictive behaviors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option C) Schizoid personality disorder. The key characteristic of schizoid personality disorder is a lack of interest in social relationships, including sexual activity and close interpersonal connections. Individuals with this disorder tend to be loners who prefer solitary activities and often feel little desire for intimacy or sexual experiences. Option A) Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others and often involves impulsive and aggressive behavior, rather than a lack of interest in relationships. Option B) Paranoid personality disorder involves pervasive mistrust and suspicion of others, which is not directly related to the lack of interest in sexual activity mentioned in the scenario. Option D) Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by eccentric behavior, odd beliefs, and difficulties in forming close relationships, but it does not specifically align with the lack of interest in sexual activity described in the question. From an educational perspective, understanding personality disorders is crucial for nurses to provide effective care and support to clients. Recognizing the specific traits and behaviors associated with each disorder helps nurses tailor their interventions and approach to meet the unique needs of individuals with these conditions. In this case, identifying the lack of interest in sexual activity as a characteristic of schizoid personality disorder can guide the nurse in providing appropriate care and support for the client's emotional and social well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Anxiety is a transdiagnostic phenomenon that can coexist alongside varied psychiatric and medical conditions. This statement is accurate because anxiety is not limited to one specific disorder but can manifest across different conditions, making it transdiagnostic in nature. Option A is incorrect because it does not fully capture the essence of anxiety being transdiagnostic; it simply mentions that anxiety can coexist with other conditions without emphasizing its broader applicability. Option C is incorrect as it states that anxiety cannot manifest alongside other conditions, which is not true given the comorbidity seen in clinical practice. Option D is incorrect because it erroneously suggests that anxiety is solely linked to specific risk factors, disregarding its complex and multifaceted nature. From an educational perspective, understanding anxiety as a transdiagnostic phenomenon is crucial for healthcare professionals working in behavioral nursing. This knowledge enables nurses to provide comprehensive care to clients with anxiety, recognizing its presence across various psychiatric and medical conditions. By acknowledging the transdiagnostic nature of anxiety, nurses can implement holistic and individualized treatment plans that address the interconnectedness of anxiety with other health issues, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is option A) "I have lost 15 pounds! I just don't want to eat lately." This statement indicates a potential substance use disorder because weight loss and loss of appetite are common symptoms of substance abuse, particularly alcohol. This change in eating habits, coupled with the client's reported frequent social use of alcohol and negative consequences at work due to drinking, raises concern for a substance use disorder. Option B) "I am so focused right now. I have a lot of goals." is incorrect because it does not directly relate to the symptoms or consequences of a substance use disorder. While substance use can sometimes lead to increased focus or euphoria initially, this statement does not align with the typical signs of a problem. Option C) repeats the same statement as option A) and is incorrect due to this repetition. Option D) "I am taking art lessons to relieve stress." is incorrect as it suggests a healthy coping mechanism for stress. While individuals with substance use disorders may use substances to cope with stress, engaging in positive activities like art lessons is not indicative of a substance use disorder. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers, including nurses, to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of substance use disorders in their clients. Understanding these cues can help in early intervention, appropriate referrals, and providing support for individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. It is essential for nurses to approach these situations with empathy, understanding, and evidence-based interventions to promote the health and well-being of their clients.