The nurse observes an older adult patient who has been taking antipsychotic medications for 8 months. The patient is smacking her lips and blinking her eyes rapidly. The nurse also observes a protruding tongue. Which action by the nurse would be most appropriate?

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Question 1 of 5

The nurse observes an older adult patient who has been taking antipsychotic medications for 8 months. The patient is smacking her lips and blinking her eyes rapidly. The nurse also observes a protruding tongue. Which action by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: C is correct because the patient is exhibiting symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, a side effect of long-term antipsychotic use. It is crucial for the nurse to document these symptoms accurately to inform the healthcare team. A: Asking about side effects is important but doesn't address the specific symptoms observed. B: Contacting the physician for a different medication order may be necessary, but documenting the symptoms first is crucial. D: Tapering off the medication should only be done under medical supervision and after proper assessment, not based solely on observed symptoms.

Question 2 of 5

The plan of care for a patient with anger includes behavioral interventions. Which of the following would the nurse be likely to find?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anger management. This is because anger management techniques are specifically designed to help individuals recognize triggers, control emotions, and respond in more constructive ways. Self-monitoring of cues (A) involves identifying personal anger cues but does not necessarily address management strategies. Relaxation training (C) focuses on reducing stress, not specifically managing anger. Response disruption (D) involves interrupting negative behaviors but does not encompass the comprehensive strategies of anger management.

Question 3 of 5

A family member of a client diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder asks a nurse what causes the disorder. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because research has shown a strong genetic component in the development of schizoaffective disorder. Genetic factors play a significant role in predisposing individuals to this condition. Studies have identified specific genetic markers and hereditary patterns associated with the disorder. This explanation is supported by scientific evidence and is widely accepted in the field of psychiatry. Choice A is incorrect because while family dynamics may influence the course of the disorder, it is not considered a direct cause. Choice C is incorrect as dopamine dysregulation is more commonly associated with schizophrenia, not schizoaffective disorder. Choice D is incorrect as birth order has not been identified as a significant factor in the development of schizoaffective disorder.

Question 4 of 5

A client with borderline personality disorder tells the nurse, I'm afraid to get on a train because we'll probably get into a wreck. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "What are the chances of that actually happening?" This response acknowledges the client's fear while prompting critical thinking about the likelihood of the feared event. It encourages the client to examine the rationality of their fear and challenges distorted thinking common in borderline personality disorder. A: Asking about a bad experience focuses on past events rather than addressing the client's current fear. C: Telling the client it won't happen dismisses their fear and does not address the underlying issue. D: Suggesting another mode of transportation avoids addressing the client's fear directly and does not promote critical thinking.

Question 5 of 5

A client has been admitted to the psychiatric unit with a diagnosis of narcolepsy. Which client statement would the nurse interpret as reflecting this condition?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because seeing and hearing things while falling asleep is a common symptom of narcolepsy called hypnagogic hallucinations. This occurs during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. Choice B describes symptoms of restless leg syndrome, not narcolepsy. Choice C describes symptoms of insomnia. Choice D indicates a history of sleep disturbances due to previous medication use, not narcolepsy. Therefore, choice A is the most indicative of narcolepsy.

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