A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. The client states 'I will just see my regular doctor at my annual checkup after I am discharged.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D, "It is recommended that you receive follow-up care from a mental health provider after you are discharged," is the correct response. This answer is appropriate because individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder often require ongoing mental health support and specialized therapy to manage their symptoms effectively. Following up with a mental health provider ensures continuity of care, tailored interventions, and monitoring of the client's progress. Option A, "You have made such great progress here. I can see why you feel so well," is incorrect because it fails to address the importance of ongoing mental health care for someone with a new diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. While acknowledging progress is beneficial, it does not provide guidance on the necessary follow-up care. Option B, "Since you have such a good relationship with your family practice provider, you do not need to see a mental health provider," is incorrect because managing borderline personality disorder typically requires specialized mental health interventions that may not be within the scope of a family practice provider. Referral to a mental health professional is crucial for comprehensive care. Option C, "You should follow up with your regular doctor in the next few months so they can manage your new diagnosis," is also incorrect as it suggests that a regular doctor can manage borderline personality disorder, which is typically beyond their expertise. Collaborating with mental health providers is essential in addressing the complex needs of individuals with this diagnosis. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of appropriate referrals and follow-up care in mental health nursing practice. Understanding the specific needs of clients with different mental health diagnoses and advocating for their holistic care can significantly impact their outcomes and well-being. It underscores the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration and specialized interventions in addressing complex mental health conditions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is a medication commonly prescribed for Parkinson's disease to help manage its symptoms. It works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which is crucial in Parkinson's treatment due to dopamine deficiency in the brain associated with this disease. Option A) Vascular disease is incorrect because it is not typically treated with levodopa. Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to cognitive decline. Option B) HIV infection is also incorrect as it is a viral infection that affects the immune system, not directly related to levodopa treatment or symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Option D) Prion disease is incorrect as well. Prion diseases are a group of rare, fatal brain diseases caused by abnormal proteins, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, and are not typically treated with levodopa. In an educational context, understanding the relationship between specific medications and the conditions they treat is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Recognizing the medication's purpose and its implications for the client's condition is essential for accurate assessment and intervention in clinical practice, especially when dealing with complex conditions like dementia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Justice. In this scenario, justice is the ethical principle that most clearly applies. Justice in healthcare ethics refers to the fair distribution of resources and the equitable treatment of all individuals. The nurse's concern about using restraint for one patient while providing one-on-one supervision for another patient highlights the issue of fairness and equity in care delivery. Option A) Beneficence, focuses on doing good and promoting the well-being of patients. While using restraint may be viewed as a way to prevent harm, the issue at hand is more about fairness and justice in resource allocation. Option B) Autonomy, pertains to respecting patients' rights to make their own decisions about their care. Although autonomy is an important ethical principle, it is not the primary concern in this situation. Option C) Fidelity, relates to being faithful to commitments and agreements made with patients. While fidelity is crucial in building trust with patients, it is not the central ethical principle at play in the nurse's dilemma. Educationally, understanding the ethical principles in nursing is vital for making sound clinical decisions and providing ethical care. Nurses must navigate complex ethical dilemmas like the one presented in this question to ensure that their practice upholds the principles of justice, beneficence, autonomy, and fidelity. This scenario underscores the importance of considering fairness and equity in healthcare decision-making processes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option D) Milk. When a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder refuses solid food, offering milk is a suitable choice due to its nutritional value and ease of consumption. Milk provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins, which can be beneficial for the patient's overall health and well-being. Additionally, milk is a liquid that is easier to swallow compared to solid foods, making it a practical option for someone who is having difficulty eating. Option A) Tomato juice may not be the best choice because it is acidic and may cause discomfort for individuals with sensitive stomachs or those experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Option B) Orange juice is also acidic and may not be well-tolerated by some individuals, especially if they have digestive concerns. Option C) Hot tea might not provide sufficient nutrients and may not be well-suited for someone who requires more substantial nourishment. In an educational context, understanding the importance of nutrition in mental health is crucial for nurses caring for patients with major depressive disorder. Offering appropriate food and beverage options can play a significant role in supporting the patient's physical health, which in turn can positively impact their mental well-being. It is essential for nurses to consider the individual's preferences, dietary restrictions, and nutritional needs when making recommendations for food and beverage choices in such situations.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D is an example of 'attending' because it demonstrates active listening and a willingness to provide emotional support. By expressing a desire to sit with the patient, the nurse is showing empathy and creating a therapeutic environment for the patient to feel comfortable opening up. Option A is incorrect because it minimizes the patient's feelings by comparing them to others' stress levels and dismissing the patient's current situation. This response lacks empathy and fails to acknowledge the patient's emotional state. Option B is incorrect as it comes across as confrontational and may make the patient feel defensive. The question seems judgmental and does not convey a sense of understanding or support for the patient's feelings. Option C is incorrect because it focuses solely on the medical aspect of treatment and does not address the patient's emotional needs or provide reassurance. It lacks the human connection necessary for effective therapeutic communication. In the context of nursing care, 'attending' is a crucial component of building a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship. By actively listening, showing empathy, and providing emotional support, nurses can create a safe space for patients to express their thoughts and feelings, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and promoting positive outcomes in mental health treatment.