A patient presents to the emergency department with mixed psychiatric symptoms. The admission nurse suspects the symptoms may be the result of a medical problem. Lab results show elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine. What is the nurse's next best action?

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Question 1 of 5

A patient presents to the emergency department with mixed psychiatric symptoms. The admission nurse suspects the symptoms may be the result of a medical problem. Lab results show elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine. What is the nurse's next best action?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient for a history of renal problems. Elevated BUN and creatinine levels indicate possible renal dysfunction, which can manifest as psychiatric symptoms. By assessing the patient for a history of renal problems, the nurse can gather important information to help determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. This step is crucial in identifying and addressing any potential medical issues contributing to the psychiatric presentation. Incorrect choices: A: Reporting the findings to the health care provider is important, but assessing the patient for a history of renal problems should be done first. C: Assessing the patient's family history for cardiac problems is not relevant to the elevated BUN and creatinine levels. D: Hospitalization on the psychiatric unit may not address the underlying medical issue causing the symptoms; assessing for renal problems is more appropriate.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse is teaching an in-service education class about caring for homeless populations. When explaining the difference between the care provided by Safe Havens and Shelter Plus Care, which of the following would the nurse include?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because Shelter Plus Care offers both supportive services and long-term housing, which is crucial for homeless populations to achieve stability and independence. Safe Havens, on the other hand, primarily focus on providing immediate shelter and support services but not long-term housing. A is incorrect because Safe Havens actually offer more intensive services to a smaller population. B is incorrect because Safe Havens typically have a smaller capacity than 100 people. C is incorrect because Safe Havens do not typically provide long-term housing, only short-term shelter.

Question 3 of 5

Two months ago, Natasha's husband died suddenly and she has been overwhelmed with grief. When Natasha is subsequently diagnosed with major depressive disorder, her daughter, Nadia, makes which true statement?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Depression often begins after a major loss. Losing dad was a major loss. Rationale: Natasha's sudden loss of her husband is a significant life event that can trigger major depressive disorder. The stress and grief from the loss can lead to the development of depression. Summary of other choices: B: Bereavement and depression are not the same problem. While bereavement can lead to depression, they are distinct experiences. C: Mourning is a normal process of grieving and not considered pathological behavior. D: Antidepressant medications can be effective in treating depression, including depression triggered by a major loss.

Question 4 of 5

The nurse is providing a presentation for a group of health professionals about suicide. Which of the following would the nurse address as a major contributing factor to the rising suicide rate among men?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Substance abuse. Substance abuse is a significant contributing factor to the rising suicide rate among men because it can lead to depression, impaired judgment, and impulsive behavior, all of which increase the risk of suicide. Substance abuse can also exacerbate underlying mental health issues. In contrast, media influences, lack of conflict resolution skills, and parenting practices, while important factors in mental health, are not as directly linked to the increased suicide rate among men compared to substance abuse.

Question 5 of 5

Nurse is developing discharge care plans for a client who has osteoporosis. To prevent injury, the nurse should instruct the client to:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perform weight bearing exercises. Weight bearing exercises help to strengthen bones, which is crucial for individuals with osteoporosis to prevent fractures. By engaging in weight bearing exercises, such as walking or lifting weights, the client can improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Avoid crossing the legs beyond the midline (B) is not directly related to preventing injury in osteoporosis. Avoiding sitting in one position for prolonged periods (C) is important for preventing pressure sores but not specifically related to preventing injury in osteoporosis. Splinting the affected area (D) may be used in certain cases for support but does not address the primary preventive measure of strengthening bones through weight bearing exercises.

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