A patient with schizophrenia is prescribed risperidone. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the medication?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Consistency in medication timing helps maintain a steady blood level for effectiveness. 2. Following a regular schedule improves adherence and reduces the risk of missing doses. 3. Ensures optimal therapeutic effects and minimizes potential side effects. 4. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as stopping abruptly, mixing with alcohol, or taking as needed can lead to relapse, reduced efficacy, or increased risk of side effects.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Exploration. This therapeutic communication technique encourages the patient to expand on their feelings, promoting exploration of thoughts and emotions. By asking the patient to elaborate on their feelings, the nurse facilitates deeper understanding. Restating (A) involves repeating the patient's words back to them. Clarification (B) is seeking to understand the patient's meaning. Reflection (C) involves mirroring the patient's emotions. In this scenario, the nurse is prompting the patient to delve further into their emotions, making exploration the most appropriate technique.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the primary goal of cognitive processing therapy in PTSD is to help the patient understand the impact of trauma on their current thoughts and behaviors. This involves identifying and challenging maladaptive beliefs and cognitive distortions related to the trauma. By gaining insight into how the trauma has influenced their thoughts and behaviors, the patient can work towards changing these patterns and improving their psychological well-being. Choice A is incorrect because while processing the trauma and reducing avoidance behaviors are important aspects of therapy, they are not the primary goal in cognitive processing therapy. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses solely on confronting and processing the trauma, missing the crucial component of understanding its impact on thoughts and behaviors. Choice D is incorrect because avoidance of triggers is not the primary goal; rather, it is about addressing and modifying the cognitive responses to those triggers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Difficulty sleeping. This finding is most concerning because it can indicate severe depression or potential suicidal ideation. Insomnia is a common symptom of major depressive disorder and can exacerbate the patient's condition. It is important to address sleep disturbances promptly to prevent further deterioration. Rationale for why other choices are incorrect: A: Decreased interest in activities is a common symptom of major depressive disorder but may not necessarily indicate immediate risk. B: Feelings of worthlessness are also common in depression but may not be as urgent as sleep disturbances. D: Changes in appetite can be a symptom of depression, but difficulty sleeping poses a more immediate concern for potential harm to the patient's well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Duloxetine. Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. Gabapentin (A) is primarily used for neuropathic pain, Amitriptyline (C) is a tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and neuropathic pain, and Tramadol (D) is an opioid analgesic used for pain management but not typically for major depressive disorder.