ATI RN
Population Specific Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
The physician prescribes haloperidol (Haldol), a first-generation antipsychotic drug, for a patient with schizophrenia who displays delusions, hallucinations, apathy, and social isolation. Which symptoms should most be monitored to evaluate the expected improvement from this medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the symptoms of delusions and hallucinations are key indicators of improvement in schizophrenia with antipsychotic treatment. These symptoms directly relate to the patient's perception of reality and are core features of the disorder. Monitoring these symptoms provides objective evidence of the medication's effectiveness in addressing the patient's psychotic symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they mainly indicate negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as flat affect, social withdrawal, and cognitive deficits. While monitoring these symptoms is important for assessing overall functioning and quality of life, they are not the primary target of improvement with antipsychotic medications. Symptoms like delusions and hallucinations are considered primary targets for evaluating the efficacy of antipsychotic treatment in schizophrenia.
Question 2 of 5
An appropriate short-term goal for a withdrawn, isolated patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Interacting with an assigned nurse helps build a therapeutic relationship, essential for engaging withdrawn patients. Step 2: Consistent interaction promotes trust and communication, aiding in the patient's socialization. Step 3: This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound, aligning with the SMART criteria. Summary: A: Participation in all activities may overwhelm the patient. B: Defining barriers to communication is too advanced for someone withdrawn. C: Talking about feelings in a group setting may be too challenging for a withdrawn patient.
Question 3 of 5
A patient tells the nurse, 'I can't go to any unit meetings because when I get in that room, everyone can hear my thoughts.' The nurse can correctly assess this symptom as:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: thought broadcasting. This is when a person believes that others can hear their thoughts. In this scenario, the patient's belief that everyone in the unit meetings can hear their thoughts aligns with the symptom of thought broadcasting. It is a common manifestation of certain psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. Choice A, concrete thinking, refers to literal thinking without abstract reasoning and is not applicable in this context. Choice B, loose associations, involves disorganized and illogical thought patterns, which are not evident in the patient's statement. Choice D, auditory hallucinations, refers to hearing voices when no external stimulus is present, which is different from the patient's belief that others can hear their thoughts.
Question 4 of 5
The client in whom schizophrenia has been diagnosed usually is medicated with an ____ drug.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Antipsychotic. Antipsychotic drugs are specifically designed to treat symptoms associated with schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions. These drugs help regulate dopamine levels in the brain, which are often imbalanced in individuals with schizophrenia. Antianxiety drugs (A) are not typically used to treat schizophrenia as they target different symptoms. Antidepressants (C) may be used in conjunction with antipsychotics, but they are not the primary treatment for schizophrenia. Antihypertensive drugs (D) are used to treat high blood pressure and are not indicated for schizophrenia.
Question 5 of 5
Which is the most appropriate initial goal for a nurse when attempting to overcome personal negative attitudes about a patient who has a history of returning to an abusive spouse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because exploring one's own attitudes and values towards survivors of violence is crucial in overcoming personal negative attitudes. By reflecting on personal biases, the nurse can gain self-awareness and empathy, enabling better care for the patient. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on the abuser's behaviors, not the nurse's attitudes. Choice C is incorrect as it shifts the focus to the nurse's personal relationships. Choice D is incorrect as attending seminars does not directly address the nurse's personal attitudes.