A nurse is covering a phone triage line for trauma and crisis support. A client on the phone asks, 'Can you help me understand how trauma-related disorders develop?' Which of the following responses by should the nurse provide?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "Experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event can result in developing a trauma-related disorder," is the correct response for the nurse to provide. This answer is appropriate because trauma-related disorders, such as PTSD, are typically a result of exposure to a distressing event. It is crucial for the nurse to acknowledge the impact of traumatic experiences on mental health. Option A is incorrect because while brain chemistry can play a role in mental health, trauma-related disorders are not solely due to a chemical imbalance. Option B is incorrect as genetics may predispose individuals to certain conditions, but trauma-related disorders are primarily influenced by environmental factors. Option C is incorrect because trauma can be emotional or psychological in nature, not solely physical harm. Educationally, understanding the development of trauma-related disorders is essential for healthcare professionals, especially those providing trauma and crisis support. By recognizing the link between traumatic experiences and mental health outcomes, nurses can better support clients in coping with and recovering from trauma. It is important to provide accurate information to clients seeking help in understanding their experiences and seeking appropriate care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Make observations on neutral topics. This approach is the most effective because it allows the nurse to engage the patient in a non-threatening manner, providing opportunities for the patient to participate in the conversation at their comfort level. By making observations on neutral topics, the nurse can show nonjudgmental acceptance and support, which is crucial in building rapport with a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Option B) Ask the patient direct questions may be seen as intrusive and overwhelming for a patient who is not engaging voluntarily. This approach may increase the patient's feelings of discomfort and may lead to further withdrawal. Option C) Phrasing questions to require 'yes' or 'no' answers limits the patient's ability to express themselves and may not foster a sense of open communication or trust. Option D) Frequently reassuring the patient to reduce guilt feelings may not address the underlying issues contributing to the patient's depressive symptoms. While reassurance can be helpful in certain situations, it may not be the most effective approach in this scenario. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the principles of therapeutic communication when interacting with patients with mental health disorders. Building trust, showing empathy, and using open-ended questions or neutral observations can help create a safe and supportive environment for patients to express themselves and engage in meaningful interactions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the best response for the nurse is option B: "It sounds like you're feeling very frightened and distrustful right now." This response demonstrates therapeutic communication by acknowledging and reflecting the patient's feelings without dismissing or contradicting them. It shows empathy and validates the patient's experience, which can help build trust and rapport. Option A is incorrect because it denies the patient's feelings and reality, which can increase the patient's distress and worsen the therapeutic relationship. Option C is inappropriate as it places undue pressure on the patient to trust others, which may not be feasible or therapeutic at that moment. Option D, while acknowledging the patient's feelings, fails to reflect back the emotions expressed by the patient, missing an opportunity for empathetic connection. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of using therapeutic communication techniques in psychiatric nursing. Validating the patient's feelings, even if they are based on delusions, is crucial for building trust and rapport in the nurse-patient relationship. By understanding and acknowledging the patient's emotions, nurses can create a supportive environment for individuals with schizophrenia to feel heard and understood.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for a patient on lithium for a mood disorder, monitoring for side effects is crucial. The correct answer is C) Polyuria, polydipsia, and fine hand tremors. Lithium is known to cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, leading to increased urination (polyuria) and thirst (polydipsia). Fine hand tremors are also common with lithium use. Option A) Tremors, nausea, and weight gain are more commonly associated with antipsychotic medications, not lithium used for mood disorders. Option B) Blurred vision, dizziness, and hyperactivity are not typical side effects of lithium. These symptoms may be seen with other medications or conditions, but not specifically with lithium. Option D) Fatigue, drowsiness, and headache are not primary side effects of lithium. While fatigue and drowsiness can occur, they are less common compared to the symptoms listed in option C. Educationally, understanding the side effects of psychiatric medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Recognizing the specific side effects of lithium helps in early detection and management, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of preparing a client for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it is crucial for the client to have a clear understanding of what to expect during the procedure. Option A, "This procedure will cause me to have brief seizures," is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the nature of ECT. ECT involves inducing a controlled seizure in the brain to help alleviate symptoms of certain mental health conditions. Option B, "I will be able to eat breakfast prior to my procedure," is incorrect because typically, clients undergoing ECT are required to fast prior to the procedure to reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration. Option C, "I will not need to have a pre-ECT workup before the procedure," is incorrect because a thorough pre-ECT workup is essential to ensure the client's safety and appropriateness for ECT treatment. Option D, "One ECT treatment will be effective for my depression," is incorrect because ECT is usually administered over a series of treatments to achieve optimal therapeutic benefits. From an educational perspective, it is important for nurses to provide accurate information to clients undergoing ECT to alleviate anxiety and ensure informed decision-making. Understanding the procedure helps clients feel more in control and engaged in their treatment, ultimately leading to better outcomes.