Nurses understand that a major cause of personality disorders is:

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Psychotropic Medication Questions

Question 1 of 5

Nurses understand that a major cause of personality disorders is:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of psychotropic medication, it is crucial for nurses to understand the etiology of personality disorders to provide optimal care. The correct answer to the question, "Nurses understand that a major cause of personality disorders is: Dysfunctional family relationships (Option C)," aligns with the psychosocial perspective of personality disorders. Dysfunctional family relationships can contribute significantly to the development of personality disorders through factors such as inconsistent parenting, neglect, abuse, or a lack of emotional support. These adverse experiences during childhood can shape an individual's core beliefs, self-perception, and interpersonal patterns, leading to the manifestation of personality disorders. On the other hand, the incorrect options can be explained as follows: A) Neurochemical imbalance: While neurochemical imbalances may play a role in some mental health conditions like mood disorders, they are not considered a primary cause of personality disorders. B) Genetics: While there may be a genetic component to personality disorders, research suggests that environmental factors, such as dysfunctional family dynamics, have a more significant impact on their development. D) Anoxia: Anoxia, or lack of oxygen to the brain, is not a recognized cause of personality disorders; it is more commonly associated with conditions like hypoxia or brain injury. Understanding the role of dysfunctional family relationships in the development of personality disorders is essential for nurses as it informs their assessment, intervention, and therapeutic communication strategies with patients. By recognizing the impact of early life experiences on mental health, nurses can provide holistic care that addresses both the biological and psychosocial aspects of personality disorders.

Question 2 of 5

A nurse provides instructions to a client taking fluoxetine (Prozac), an SSRI antidepressant. The nurse tells the client to take the medication:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Early in the morning. Fluoxetine (Prozac), as an SSRI antidepressant, is known to have stimulating effects, which can potentially cause insomnia if taken later in the day. By taking it early in the morning, the client can capitalize on these stimulating effects while minimizing the risk of sleep disturbances. Option B) During lunch time may not be the best choice because taking fluoxetine later in the day can disrupt sleep patterns due to its stimulating properties. Option C) At snack time is not recommended as it does not specify a specific time of day, and timing is crucial for medication effectiveness. Option D) At bedtime is incorrect because of the potential for insomnia if the medication is taken too late in the day. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to understand the pharmacological effects of psychotropic medications to provide accurate and safe instructions to clients. Timing of medication administration is crucial to ensure optimal therapeutic benefits and minimize potential side effects. Nurses play a key role in medication education, emphasizing the importance of adherence to prescribed schedules for improved treatment outcomes in clients.

Question 3 of 5

Patients taking MAOIs have a tendency to experience hypertensive crisis, especially when interacting with other drugs like epinephrine. Which of the following is a sign of hypertensive crisis?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Diplopia. In the context of MAOIs and hypertensive crisis, diplopia, or double vision, is a sign of severe elevated blood pressure that can occur due to the interaction of MAOIs with other drugs like epinephrine. This visual disturbance can be a warning sign of impending hypertensive crisis which requires immediate medical attention. Option A) Orthostatic hypotension is a decrease in blood pressure that occurs upon standing up. This is the opposite of hypertensive crisis and is not a typical sign of this condition. Option C) Delay in ejaculation is a common side effect of some medications, but it is not directly related to hypertensive crisis. Option D) Hair loss is also not a characteristic sign of hypertensive crisis. Hair loss can be caused by various factors but is not a typical manifestation of acute severe hypertension. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of hypertensive crisis in patients taking MAOIs is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those prescribing or administering psychotropic medications. Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt intervention and prevention of serious complications for the patient. It is essential to be aware of potential drug interactions and adverse effects to ensure safe medication management.

Question 4 of 5

Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is prescribed to an 8-year-old child for the treatment of ADHD. The nurse will most likely monitor which of the following during the medication therapy?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of administering methylphenidate (Ritalin) to an 8-year-old child for ADHD treatment, monitoring height and weight is crucial. The correct answer, option D, is essential because stimulant medications like methylphenidate can potentially affect a child's growth and appetite. Regular monitoring of height and weight helps healthcare providers assess the medication's impact on the child's physical development and overall health. Option A, deep tendon reflex, is not typically monitored during psychotropic medication therapy for ADHD. This assessment is more relevant in neurological exams or when evaluating certain conditions like spinal cord injuries. Option B, intake and output, focuses on fluid balance and is important in conditions like kidney disease or heart failure where fluid management is critical. In the context of ADHD medication monitoring, it is not a primary concern. Option C, monitoring temperature and breath sounds, is more relevant in assessing respiratory or infectious conditions. While it is important in general patient care, it is not directly related to monitoring the effects of psychotropic medications like methylphenidate for ADHD. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind monitoring height and weight in children receiving ADHD medication is crucial for healthcare providers and nurses. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care and regular assessments to ensure the medication's effectiveness while monitoring potential side effects on growth and nutrition. This knowledge enhances patient safety and quality of care in pediatric psychopharmacology.

Question 5 of 5

A client with schizophrenia is receiving antipsychotic medication. Which nursing diagnosis may be appropriate for this client?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the appropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with schizophrenia receiving antipsychotic medication is "Ineffective protection related to blood dyscrasias" (Option A). Rationale for Option A (Correct Answer): - Antipsychotic medications can lead to blood dyscrasias, such as agranulocytosis or leukopenia, which compromise the body's ability to fight infections. This places the client at risk for potential harm due to decreased immune response. Therefore, monitoring for signs of blood dyscrasias and implementing measures to protect the client from infections is crucial. Rationale for Incorrect Options: - Option B (Urinary frequency related to adverse effects of antipsychotic medication): While antipsychotic medications can cause side effects like urinary frequency, this is not a priority nursing diagnosis compared to the risk of blood dyscrasias. - Option C (Risk for injury related to a severely decreased level of consciousness): This option is not directly associated with the side effects of antipsychotic medications; it may be relevant to other conditions but not specific to this client's situation. - Option D (Risk for injury related to electrolyte disturbances): While antipsychotic medications can sometimes lead to electrolyte imbalances, the risk of blood dyscrasias is a more immediate concern and takes precedence in this case. Educational Context: Understanding the potential side effects of psychotropic medications and their implications for nursing care is crucial in providing safe and effective care to clients with mental health disorders. By prioritizing nursing diagnoses based on the client's specific needs and the effects of their medication regimen, nurses can implement appropriate interventions to ensure client safety and well-being.

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