ATI RN
Age Specific Nursing Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
Police bring a 63-year-old woman to the emergency room, reporting that her behavior is disorganized and disruptive, that her speech makes little sense, and that she does not seem able to take care of herself. The woman has had elective surgeries at the hospital previously and was seen in the ER last week after a fall; records show no history of similar symptoms or mental illness. The ER physician speaks with the patient but does not examine her medically, diagnoses her with schizophrenia, and orders admission to the inpatient psychiatric unit. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it promotes a thorough and systematic approach to the patient's care. First, it challenges the premature diagnosis of schizophrenia without a medical examination. Second, it highlights the importance of considering medical causes for the symptoms presented by the patient. This is crucial as the patient's age and lack of prior history of mental illness suggest that a medical work-up is necessary to rule out underlying medical conditions that could be causing her symptoms. This approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment tailored to the patient's specific needs. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the fundamental issue of exploring potential medical causes for the patient's symptoms before jumping to a psychiatric diagnosis or treatment. A, B, and D focus on seeking additional psychiatric opinions, consulting for medication initiation, and evaluating vital signs, respectively, which do not address the need for a thorough medical evaluation in this case.
Question 2 of 5
A young patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is standing naked after showering and appears to be both dazed and indecisive. The nursing intervention that will be most helpful to promote dressing would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. By saying, "These are your underpants. I'll help you put them on," the nurse provides clear guidance and offers assistance, which can help the patient feel more comfortable and supported in the dressing process. This approach acknowledges the patient's need for help while respecting their autonomy. Choice A is too directive and may make the patient feel pressured or overwhelmed. Choice C involves too many options, which can be confusing for a patient experiencing indecisiveness. Choice D assumes a problem with the clothes rather than focusing on the patient's needs and feelings. Overall, choice B is the most appropriate and supportive intervention in this situation.
Question 3 of 5
Which neurological deficit(s) would the nurse be most likely to encounter when assessing a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because in schizophrenia, patients may exhibit increased blinking and impaired fine motor skills due to medication side effects or neurological changes. Weakness, loss of function, droopy eyelids with reddened cornea, paralysis, and diminished reflexes are not commonly associated with schizophrenia. It is crucial for the nurse to recognize these neurological deficits to provide appropriate care and support for the patient.
Question 4 of 5
The client lives so completely in a world of her own that she does not eat, drink, or bathe regularly. She is considered to be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Psychotic. The client's behavior of not eating, drinking, or bathing regularly indicates a severe detachment from reality, which is a hallmark of psychosis. Psychotic individuals may have delusions or hallucinations that distort their perception of the world, leading to extreme neglect of basic needs. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not specifically address the profound disconnect from reality exhibited by the client. Exotic refers to something unusual or rare, anorectic relates to an eating disorder, and neurotic typically involves anxiety and emotional instability, none of which fully capture the level of disconnection seen in psychosis.
Question 5 of 5
The client has been taking lithium and fluoxetine (Prozac) for almost a week. During today's assessment, the nurse notes a temperature of 39°C, muscle rigidity, and confusion. The client's signs and symptoms suggest:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). This is indicated by the client's elevated temperature, muscle rigidity, and confusion, which are classic symptoms of NMS. NMS is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition associated with the use of antipsychotic medications like lithium and fluoxetine. The onset of NMS is often rapid and can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly. Dystonic reactions (choice A) involve sudden and involuntary muscle contractions, which are not consistent with the client's symptoms. Bradykinesic side effects (choice B) refer to slowed movements, which are not present in this case. Extrapyramidal side effects (choice C) typically include symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and restlessness, but do not encompass the combination of symptoms seen in NMS.