Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is usually associated with comorbid psychiatric disorders. Of the following, the psychiatric disorder that is often associated with CFS is

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex condition characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition. The correct answer, B) depression, is often associated with CFS due to the significant impact of chronic illness on mental health. Individuals with CFS often experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, which are key symptoms of depression. Option A) anxiety may co-occur with CFS, but it is not as commonly associated as depression. While anxiety can exacerbate symptoms of CFS, it is not the primary psychiatric disorder often linked to this condition. Option C) obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and Option D) social phobia are not typically linked to CFS. These disorders involve different symptomatology and mechanisms compared to the mental health challenges commonly observed in individuals with CFS. In an educational context, understanding the psychiatric comorbidities of CFS is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially pediatric nurses, who may encounter young patients with this condition. Recognizing the association between CFS and depression can help nurses provide comprehensive care by addressing both the physical and mental health needs of pediatric patients with CFS. This knowledge can also guide appropriate referrals to mental health professionals for further evaluation and intervention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) second or third year of life. This is because most children with autism typically start showing clinical manifestations of the condition by this age. It is during the toddler years that parents and healthcare providers may start noticing early signs such as delayed speech or lack of social engagement. Option B) preschool is incorrect because by the time a child reaches preschool age, most children with autism would have already exhibited noticeable symptoms. Option C) school is also incorrect as children with autism typically show signs of the condition much earlier than when they start attending school. Option D) adolescence is not the correct answer because autism is usually diagnosed and identified much earlier in childhood, typically by the age of 2-3 years. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to have a good understanding of the typical developmental milestones and red flags for autism spectrum disorder to provide early intervention and support for children and families. By being knowledgeable about the age at which most children with autism start showing signs, nurses can help parents navigate the diagnostic process and access appropriate resources and services for their child.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the risk factors associated with completed suicides in childhood and adolescence is crucial for providing effective care and support to young patients. In this question, the correct answer is D) easy access to firearms. This is because easy access to firearms significantly increases the risk of completed suicides in this age group due to the lethal nature of firearms and impulsive behaviors often seen in adolescents. Option A) previous suicide attempts is a known risk factor for future completed suicides, making it an incorrect choice. Option B) alcohol or drug abuse is also a risk factor for completed suicides in adolescents but is not the exception in this scenario. Option C) a history of depression and suicide within the family is a relevant risk factor for completed suicides, so it is not the exception in this case. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing specific risk factors for completed suicides in pediatric patients. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers, including pediatric nurses, to be aware of these risk factors to prevent such tragic outcomes and provide appropriate interventions and support to at-risk individuals. Understanding these nuances in pediatric mental health is essential for nursing practice and patient safety.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is D) end abruptly. Conversion reactions in pediatric patients are best characterized by their sudden onset and resolution. These reactions typically manifest as a sudden loss of sensory or motor function, such as paralysis or blindness, with no underlying medical cause. The key characteristic is that these symptoms resolve abruptly and spontaneously, often after a stressful event has passed. Option A) sudden onset is partially correct but does not capture the full picture. While conversion reactions do have a sudden onset, the hallmark feature is actually their abrupt resolution, making option D a more accurate choice. Option B) traceable to a precipitating event is incorrect because conversion reactions often do not have a clear precipitating event. The symptoms may be linked to underlying emotional distress or psychological factors rather than a specific trigger. Option C) involve pseudoseizures is incorrect as pseudoseizures are a specific type of conversion disorder that presents as seizures but without the characteristic electrical discharges seen in epilepsy. Conversion reactions can manifest in various forms beyond pseudoseizures. Educationally, understanding conversion reactions in pediatric patients is crucial for pediatric nurses to provide appropriate care and support. Recognizing the sudden onset and resolution of symptoms can help nurses differentiate between physical and psychological causes, leading to timely interventions and referrals to mental health professionals. This knowledge enhances the holistic care of pediatric patients by addressing their emotional and psychological needs alongside their physical health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pediatric nursing, understanding the manifestations of major depression is crucial for early identification and appropriate intervention. The correct answer, D) hypersomnia, is indicative of major depression in children. Children with major depression often experience sleep disturbances, which can present as either insomnia or hypersomnia. In this case, hypersomnia is more commonly associated with pediatric major depression, as children may exhibit excessive daytime sleepiness or increased time spent sleeping. Weight loss (option A) can be a symptom of major depression in some cases, but weight gain (option B) is also a common manifestation, especially in children who may turn to food for comfort. Insomnia (option C) is another possible symptom of major depression, but it is not the defining characteristic. Hypersomnia, on the other hand, is more specific to major depression in children and can significantly impact their daily functioning and quality of life. Educationally, it is important for pediatric nurses to be able to differentiate between the various symptoms of major depression in children to provide accurate assessments and interventions. By understanding the nuanced presentations of major depression, nurses can offer appropriate support and referrals to mental health professionals for further evaluation and treatment. Regular screenings and assessments for mental health concerns, including major depression, should be integrated into pediatric healthcare practices to ensure early detection and intervention for children experiencing mental health challenges.