A nurse is working with a patient diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. The patient reports excessive worry about work, family, and health. Which nursing diagnosis is most appropriate for this patient?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient with generalized anxiety disorder who reports excessive worry about work, family, and health is option B) Anxiety. The rationale behind selecting "Anxiety" as the correct nursing diagnosis is that generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life. Anxiety is a fundamental component of this disorder, and addressing it directly is crucial in providing effective nursing care. Option A) Ineffective coping may seem plausible, but it is not as specific to the primary symptom of anxiety that the patient is experiencing. While ineffective coping may be a secondary concern, the primary focus should be on addressing the anxiety itself. Option C) Disturbed thought processes is not the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for this patient as the primary issue lies in the emotional domain of anxiety rather than cognitive disturbances. Option D) Imbalanced nutrition: Less than body requirements is not relevant to the symptoms presented by the patient in the scenario and is not a priority compared to addressing the patient's anxiety. In an educational context, understanding the nuances of different nursing diagnoses is essential for providing accurate and effective care to patients. By selecting the most appropriate diagnosis, nurses can tailor their interventions to target the underlying issue, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a patient with schizophrenia exhibiting negative symptoms like lack of motivation and limited speech, providing the patient with a structured routine and encouraging participation in small tasks (Option B) is the most appropriate intervention. This approach helps establish predictability and consistency, which can be comforting and motivating for the patient. It also breaks tasks into manageable steps, facilitating engagement without overwhelming the patient. Option A is not the best choice as patients with negative symptoms may find social activities and discussing feelings challenging due to their limited speech and lack of motivation. Option C, allowing the patient to rest completely, may reinforce isolation and worsen symptoms. Option D, telling the patient to try harder, can be demotivating and increase feelings of frustration and inadequacy. In an educational context, understanding the nuances of symptom management in schizophrenia is crucial for nurses working in behavioral health. By choosing the most appropriate intervention based on the patient's symptoms, nurses can promote a therapeutic environment that supports the patient's well-being and recovery.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this case, the nurse lacks information about what stressors the patient is coping with or about what coping skills are already possessed. Further assessment is indicated before potential solutions can be explored. Suggesting exploration of the stress facing the patient is the only option that involves further assessment rather than suggesting a particular intervention.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A patient experiencing panic-level anxiety is at high risk for injury related to increased non-goal-directed motor activity, distorted perceptions, and disordered thoughts. Data are not present to support a nursing diagnosis of self-care deficit or disturbed thought processes. The patient may have fear, but the risk for injury has a higher priority.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of behavioral health, the correct answer is B) lorazepam as the most appropriate PM anxiolytic for a patient experiencing a sudden episode of severe anxiety. Lorazepam is a fast-acting benzodiazepine that can provide quick relief in acute anxiety situations. Its rapid onset of action makes it effective in managing severe anxiety symptoms promptly. Option A) buspirone is not the best choice for acute anxiety episodes as it is more suitable for long-term management of anxiety disorders due to its slower onset of action. Options C) amitriptyline and D) desipramine are tricyclic antidepressants that are not typically used as first-line treatments for acute anxiety due to their slower onset of action and potential side effect profiles. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the pharmacological properties of different medications used in behavioral health to make informed decisions about their administration based on patient presentation and needs. Proper knowledge of medications like lorazepam helps in providing safe and effective care for patients experiencing acute behavioral health crises.