The nurse who assesses a patient previously diagnosed as having paranoid personality disorder is most likely to describe the patient as:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: guarded and distant. This is because individuals with paranoid personality disorder typically exhibit suspiciousness, mistrust, and a reluctance to confide in others. They tend to be hypervigilant and wary of others, leading them to appear guarded and distant. A: Superficially charming is incorrect because individuals with paranoid personality disorder are more likely to be cautious and suspicious rather than charming. B: Intense and impulsive is incorrect as this description is more characteristic of individuals with borderline personality disorder, not paranoid personality disorder. D: Friendly and open is incorrect because individuals with paranoid personality disorder are more likely to be reserved and cautious in their interactions. In summary, the correct answer is C because individuals with paranoid personality disorder typically exhibit guarded and distant behavior due to their suspicious and mistrustful nature.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because fear of gaining weight and loss of control over eating are core features of anorexia nervosa. Patients with anorexia often have an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to restrictive eating behaviors. This fear is accompanied by a sense of loss of control over their eating habits. Choice B is incorrect because lack of concern about food intake and weight is not a common emotional response in anorexia nervosa. Choice C is incorrect as excessive joy and pride in achieving weight loss are more characteristic of other eating disorders like bulimia nervosa or orthorexia. Choice D is incorrect because denial of the need for treatment and weight restoration may be present in some cases but is not a common emotional response in anorexia nervosa.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Extreme weight loss due to excessive food restriction. Patients with anorexia nervosa typically exhibit severe food restriction leading to significant weight loss. This behavior is driven by a distorted body image and fear of gaining weight. Binge eating followed by purging (choice A) is characteristic of bulimia nervosa, not anorexia nervosa. Frequent overeating with a lack of control (choice C) is a feature of binge eating disorder, not anorexia nervosa. Excessive weight gain through overeating and exercise (choice D) does not align with the weight loss seen in anorexia nervosa.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring vital signs and electrolyte levels closely is crucial in managing a patient with bulimia nervosa who has a history of purging. Purging can lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, which can have serious consequences such as cardiac arrhythmias and electrolyte disturbances. By closely monitoring vital signs and electrolyte levels, nurses can quickly identify and intervene in case of any abnormalities, preventing potential life-threatening complications. Choice A is incorrect because emotional support and stress management are important but not the priority when dealing with physical complications from purging. Choice C is incorrect because encouraging exercise may exacerbate the patient's unhealthy behaviors and should be approached cautiously. Choice D is incorrect because identifying triggers is important but not as immediate as monitoring vital signs and electrolyte levels in this situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Avoidant personality disorder. This is because the woman's fear of criticism, avoidance of sharing thoughts/feelings, and limited social circle are indicative of social inhibition and feelings of inadequacy, which are key features of avoidant personality disorder. A: Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions, as well as impulsivity and fear of abandonment. B: Histrionic personality disorder involves attention-seeking behavior, emotions that are shallow and rapidly shifting, and the need to be the center of attention. D: Schizoid personality disorder is marked by social detachment, limited emotional expression, and preference for solitary activities.