The nurse practitioner plans to use a psychoanalytical framework when treating a client diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Which would be the focus of this nursing intervention?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The focus of using a psychoanalytical framework when treating a client diagnosed with an anxiety disorder would involve exploring behaviors and defense mechanisms associated with the superego. In psychoanalytic theory, the superego represents internalized moral standards and values. By exploring the client's behaviors and defense mechanisms related to the superego, the nurse practitioner can gain insight into the client's unconscious conflicts and how these may be contributing to the anxiety disorder. This approach involves delving into the client's past experiences, childhood upbringing, and psychosexual development to identify underlying issues affecting their current mental state. It allows for a deeper understanding of the client's psychological dynamics and enables the nurse practitioner to tailor interventions that address the root causes of the anxiety disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons. In schizophrenia, there can be imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These imbalances can contribute to symptoms like emotional blunting, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal. Therefore, in the case of a withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia who expresses little emotion and refuses group therapy, the nurse should recognize that altered neurotransmitter function is implicated in this behavior. It is crucial to address these neurotransmitter imbalances through appropriate medications and interventions to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the client's overall well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Anorexia nervosa is a mental illness that is typically associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone levels. Prolactin is responsible for various functions in the body, including milk production in females. In individuals with anorexia nervosa, the body experiences hormonal imbalances due to malnutrition and extreme weight loss, leading to decreased levels of prolactin. Therefore, a nurse should identify anorexia nervosa as the mental illness associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone level.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. A decrease in GABA levels can lead to increased excitability in the brain, which is associated with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. GABA acts as a calming agent, helping to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Individuals with panic disorder may have lower levels of GABA, contributing to their symptoms of intense fear and anxiety attacks. Therefore, a decrease in GABA levels is most closely associated with panic disorder among the options provided.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: There is a possible correlation between abnormal secretion of growth hormone and anorexia nervosa. Imbalances in growth hormone secretion have been associated with anorexia nervosa, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of the disorder. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to include this information when explaining the causes of anorexia nervosa to the client.