ATI RN
Age Specific Nursing Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is administering haloperidol (Haldol) to a client experiencing delusions and hallucinations associated with schizophrenia. The nurse can expect symptom abatement as a result of the drug's action to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because haloperidol is a typical antipsychotic that works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. By blocking these receptors, haloperidol reduces the effects of excess dopamine, which is known to contribute to symptoms of schizophrenia such as delusions and hallucinations. This action helps alleviate the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Choice A is incorrect because haloperidol does not reduce the number of brain cells that crave dopamine; it acts on the receptors themselves. Choice C is incorrect because enhancing dopamine receptors would lead to an increase in the effects of dopamine, worsening symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because haloperidol does not cause increased cellular production of dopamine; it blocks dopamine receptors instead.
Question 2 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 3 of 5
The family of a patient with schizophrenia who has been stable for a year reports to the community mental health nurse that the patient reports feeling tense and having difficulty concentrating. He sleeps only 3 to 4 hours nightly and has begun to talk about creatures called 'volmers' hiding in the warehouse where he works and undoing his work each night. This information most likely suggests:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: relapse of his schizophrenia. The patient is displaying symptoms such as feeling tense, difficulty concentrating, disturbed sleep, and delusional thoughts about creatures hiding in his workplace. These symptoms indicate a return of psychotic features characteristic of schizophrenia, suggesting a relapse. This is supported by the patient's history of schizophrenia and the sudden onset of symptoms after a period of stability. Medication nonadherence (choice A) could be a possible cause, but the patient's symptoms are more indicative of a relapse. While psychoeducation (choice B) is important, the patient's current symptoms require immediate attention for relapse management. The chronic nature of his illness (choice C) is a general characteristic of schizophrenia and does not explain the current symptoms.
Question 4 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 5 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.