A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons. In schizophrenia, there can be imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These imbalances can contribute to symptoms like emotional blunting, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal. Therefore, in the case of a withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia who expresses little emotion and refuses group therapy, the nurse should recognize that altered neurotransmitter function is implicated in this behavior. It is crucial to address these neurotransmitter imbalances through appropriate medications and interventions to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the client's overall well-being.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. A decrease in GABA levels can lead to increased excitability in the brain, which is associated with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. GABA acts as a calming agent, helping to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Individuals with panic disorder may have lower levels of GABA, contributing to their symptoms of intense fear and anxiety attacks. Therefore, a decrease in GABA levels is most closely associated with panic disorder among the options provided.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: There is a possible correlation between abnormal secretion of growth hormone and anorexia nervosa. Imbalances in growth hormone secretion have been associated with anorexia nervosa, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of the disorder. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to include this information when explaining the causes of anorexia nervosa to the client.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Taking no action is still considered an action by the coworker. In this situation, the coworker witnessing the unauthorized administration of an extra dose of narcotic tranquilizer has a moral and ethical responsibility to intervene and prevent harm to the client. By choosing not to act, the coworker is passively allowing a potentially harmful situation to occur, which can be seen as complicity in the wrongdoing. Ethical principles dictate that individuals have a duty to act when they witness unethical or harmful behavior, even if it may be difficult or lead to repercussions. Thus, inaction in such a scenario does not release the coworker from ethical responsibility.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse would have the right to medicate the client against their wishes when the client poses a serious threat to themselves or others. In this scenario, the client physically attacked another client after being confronted in group therapy, which indicates a risk of harm to others. In situations where the client's behavior poses a danger to themselves or others, the nurse may need to intervene to ensure the safety of everyone involved, even if it means administering medication against the client's wishes. It is important to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals in such circumstances.