A psychiatric nurse uses Sullivans theories in group and individual therapy. According to Sullivan and other theorists like him, how are client symptoms viewed behaviors that are maintained because they are reinforced?

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Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practice Questions Questions

Question 1 of 5

A psychiatric nurse uses Sullivans theories in group and individual therapy. According to Sullivan and other theorists like him, how are client symptoms viewed behaviors that are maintained because they are reinforced?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because Sullivan and other theorists like him believe that client symptoms are viewed as internal conflicts arising from early childhood trauma. Sullivan emphasized the impact of early relationships on personality development, suggesting that unresolved conflicts from childhood can manifest as symptoms in adulthood. This perspective aligns with psychodynamic theories that emphasize the role of unconscious processes and early experiences in shaping behavior. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on anxiety arising from interpersonal relationships, which is more aligned with interpersonal theories rather than Sullivan's emphasis on childhood experiences. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests misinterpretations of experiences, which does not fully capture the depth of internal conflicts highlighted by Sullivan. Choice D is incorrect as it simplifies client symptoms as learned behaviors without considering the underlying emotional conflicts rooted in early childhood experiences, as emphasized by Sullivan.

Question 2 of 5

Which client statement reflects an understanding of the effect of circadian rhythms on a person?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the client statement "I'm a morning person. I get my best work done in the a.m." reflects an understanding of circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the body's internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and influences energy levels and productivity throughout the day. Being a morning person indicates that this individual's peak productivity aligns with their body's natural circadian rhythm, which typically results in better performance during the morning hours. Choice A is incorrect as it relates to a traumatic dream triggering hysteria, not circadian rhythms. Choice B is incorrect as it mentions experiencing sadness in February, which is more likely related to seasonal affective disorder rather than circadian rhythms.

Question 3 of 5

A nurse concludes that a restless, agitated client is manifesting a fight-or-flight response. The nurse should associate this response with which neurotransmitter?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Norepinephrine. During the fight-or-flight response, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the release of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine increases heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, preparing the body to either fight or flee from a perceived threat. Dopamine (A) is more related to reward and pleasure. Serotonin (B) is involved in regulating mood and emotions. Cortisol (D) is a stress hormone, not a neurotransmitter involved in the fight-or-flight response.

Question 4 of 5

A nurse understands that the abnormal secretion of growth hormone may play a role in which illness?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anorexia nervosa. Growth hormone abnormalities can contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa by affecting metabolism and body composition. Increased levels of growth hormone can lead to muscle wasting and weight loss, which are common symptoms of anorexia nervosa. In contrast, schizophrenia is primarily associated with neurotransmitter imbalances, Alzheimer's disease is linked to neurodegeneration, and diabetes is often related to insulin abnormalities.

Question 5 of 5

A nursing instructor is teaching about the monoamine category of neurotransmitters. Which student statement indicates that learning about the function of norepinephrine has occurred?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because norepinephrine is primarily involved in regulating arousal, libido, and appetite. This neurotransmitter is released in response to stress or danger, increasing alertness and readiness for action. Choices A and C are incorrect because they describe the functions of serotonin and dopamine, respectively. Serotonin regulates mood, cognition, and perception, while dopamine is involved in pain modulation, inflammatory response, and wakefulness. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate in indicating learning about the function of norepinephrine.

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