ATI RN
Psychotropic Medications 101 Quiz Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient taking medication for mental illness develops restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in motion. A nurse can correctly analyze that these symptoms are related to which drug action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dopamine-blocking effects. Restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in motion are symptoms of extrapyramidal side effects, commonly caused by dopamine-blocking medications used to treat mental illness. Dopamine blockade can lead to an imbalance in the neurotransmitter system, resulting in movement disorders like akathisia. Anticholinergic effects (choice A) typically cause dry mouth and constipation, not restlessness. Endocrine-stimulating effects (choice C) would not manifest as restlessness. The ability to stimulate spinal nerves (choice D) is not directly related to the symptoms described.
Question 2 of 5
The spouse of a patient with schizophrenia asks, 'Which neurotransmitters are more active when a person has schizophrenia?' The nurse should state, 'The current thinking is that the thought disturbances are related to increased activity of: (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: dopamine. Dopamine is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, with increased dopamine activity thought to contribute to the positive symptoms of the disorder. This is supported by the effectiveness of antipsychotic medications that block dopamine receptors. GABA (A) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and its dysfunction is associated with anxiety disorders, not schizophrenia. Substance P (B) is primarily involved in pain perception and neurokinin receptors, not typically implicated in schizophrenia. Histamine (C) plays a role in the sleep-wake cycle and allergic responses, but is not a primary neurotransmitter involved in schizophrenia.
Question 3 of 5
A patient reports good results from taking an herb to manage migraine headache pain. The nurse confirms there are no hazardous interactions between the herb and the patient’s current prescription drugs. Select the nurse’s best comment to the patient.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You are experiencing a placebo effect. When we believe something will help, it usually does.” Rationale: 1. The nurse acknowledges the patient’s positive experience with the herb, validating the patient's perspective. 2. By mentioning the placebo effect, the nurse educates the patient about the potential psychological benefits of belief in a treatment. 3. The nurse's comment is non-judgmental and encourages open communication with the patient. 4. This response promotes patient empowerment in managing their health. Summary: A: Merely noting in the medical record does not address the patient’s experience or provide valuable information. C: This response is accusatory and may discourage the patient from sharing important information in the future. D: This statement is incorrect and may cause unnecessary fear or confusion for the patient.
Question 4 of 5
An immigrant from China needs a colonic resection but is anxious and reluctant about surgery. This patient usually follows traditional Chinese health practices. Which comment by the nurse would most likely reduce the patient’s anxiety and reluctance?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it appeals to the patient's traditional Chinese beliefs by mentioning yin and yang forces and harmony, which are important concepts in traditional Chinese medicine. This can help the patient feel more comfortable and reassured about the surgery. Choice B is incorrect because it uses vague language about "final transformation" which may not resonate with the patient's cultural beliefs. Choice C is incorrect because while it offers reassurance, it does not address the patient's specific cultural background or concerns about the surgery. Choice D is incorrect because while acupuncture may be a valid option, it does not directly address the patient's anxiety and reluctance towards surgery based on their traditional health practices.
Question 5 of 5
Which complementary and alternative therapy may be safely combined with traditional Western medicine in the treatment of anxiety disorder?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: Meditative practices, such as mindfulness and deep breathing, are evidence-based therapies that have been shown to effectively reduce anxiety symptoms. Step 2: Meditative practices can be safely integrated with traditional Western medicine without adverse interactions. Step 3: These practices promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being, complementing the treatment of anxiety disorders. Step 4: Electroconvulsive therapy (A) is a medical procedure used for severe depression, not anxiety. Mega doses of vitamins (B) lack sufficient evidence for treating anxiety. Herbal therapy (D) can have interactions with medications.