An individual hiking in the forest encounters a large poisonous snake on the path. Which change in this individual™s vital signs is most likely?

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Psychobiologic Disorders Questions

Question 1 of 5

An individual hiking in the forest encounters a large poisonous snake on the path. Which change in this individual™s vital signs is most likely?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because encountering a large poisonous snake can trigger a fight-or-flight response, leading to an increase in blood pressure to prepare for potential danger. This response is mediated by the sympathetic nervous system, causing vasoconstriction and increased cardiac output. Choices A and B are less likely as a decrease in pulse or respiratory rate is not typical in this situation. Choice C is less directly related to the physiological response to a threat compared to blood pressure changes.

Question 2 of 5

A patient says, It takes me about 15 minutes to go to sleep each night. This comment describes

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: sleep latency. Sleep latency refers to the time it takes for an individual to fall asleep after lying down in bed. In this case, the patient mentioning that it takes about 15 minutes to go to sleep each night indicates a delay in the onset of sleep, which aligns with the concept of sleep latency. Delta sleep (A) refers to slow-wave deep sleep stages, parasomnia (B) involves abnormal behaviors during sleep, and REM sleep (D) is the stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements and vivid dreams, none of which are directly related to the time taken to fall asleep.

Question 3 of 5

A person is prescribed sertraline 100 mg PO daily. Which change in sleep is likely secondary to this medication? The patient will have

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: less REM sleep. Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), can suppress REM sleep. Serotonin inhibits REM sleep, and by blocking its reuptake, sertraline can reduce REM sleep duration. This medication is known to increase sleep continuity and reduce awakenings, leading to less REM sleep. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because sertraline does not directly affect dreaming, excessive sleepiness, or slow-wave sleep.

Question 4 of 5

A home care nurse assesses a very demanding patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Afterward, the nurse talks with the spouse who has provided this patient's care for 6 years. The spouse says, I don't need much sleep anymore. I might need to help him during the night. Select the nurse's most therapeutic response.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it addresses the spouse's potential health concerns and shows genuine concern. By acknowledging the spouse's behavior and expressing worry, the nurse opens up a dialogue about the spouse's well-being. This response focuses on the caregiver's health, which is essential in preventing caregiver burnout. Choice A is incorrect because it only praises the spouse's devotion without addressing the potential negative impact on their health. Choice C is incorrect because it minimizes the spouse's sacrifice and may come off as dismissive. Choice D is incorrect as it uses a threatening tone and does not show empathy towards the spouse's situation.

Question 5 of 5

A nurse who works night shift says, I am exhausted most of the time. I sleep through my alarm. Sometimes my brain does not seem to work right. I am worried that I might make a practice error. Which question should the nursing supervisor ask first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct question to ask first is B: "How much sleep do you get in a 24-hour period?" This is because the nurse is experiencing symptoms of fatigue and sleep deprivation, which can significantly impact their performance and patient safety. By understanding the nurse's sleep patterns, the nursing supervisor can assess the root cause of the issue and provide appropriate interventions such as adjusting the work schedule or promoting better sleep hygiene. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly address the primary concern of sleep deprivation. Asking about stress levels (A) may be relevant but addressing sleep should take precedence. Suggesting exercises before bed (C) or hypnotic medication (D) overlook the importance of understanding the nurse's current sleep habits and patterns.

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