ATI RN
Age Specific Populations Questions
Question 1 of 5
The signs and symptoms of schizophrenia must be present for at least _____ months before a diagnostic label is assigned.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C (12 months) because the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) requires symptoms to be present for at least 6 months before a diagnosis of schizophrenia can be made. This prolonged duration helps ensure that the symptoms are not due to temporary factors. Therefore, option C is the most appropriate choice. Options A (3 months), B (6 months), and D (18 months) do not align with the established diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia.
Question 2 of 5
An adolescent claims to have been physically abused by a parent. The adolescent's other parent angrily tells the nurse, 'It's ridiculous for our child to accuse my spouse, who's a prominent doctor and is respected by the community.' Which of these nursing communications would be most effective for the parent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. This response challenges the parent's belief that abuse does not exist in respected families, highlighting the misconception that abuse can happen in any family. 2. It addresses the parent's disbelief directly, encouraging them to reconsider their assumptions and beliefs about abuse. 3. It promotes critical thinking and reflection on the parent's part, fostering a more open-minded and empathetic approach towards the adolescent's disclosure. Summary of Other Choices: B: This choice focuses on the stress of the accused parent, deflecting from the issue of abuse and potentially excusing their behavior. C: This choice acknowledges the difficulty of the situation but does not effectively challenge the parent's disbelief or misconceptions about abuse. D: This choice uses a positive characteristic of the accused parent to deflect from the allegations of abuse, which does not address the parent's denial or the seriousness of the situation.
Question 3 of 5
A 45-year-old married woman who works full time in a factory has recently been absent for 3-day periods on several occasions. Each time, she returned to work wearing dark glasses. Facial and body bruises were apparent. Her supervisor became suspicious that she was a victim of battering and referred her to the occupational health nurse. Which initial inquiry would be most important for the nurse to make?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Tell me what has happened to you." This open-ended question allows the woman to share her experience without judgment or assumptions. It shows empathy and respect for her autonomy. It is crucial for the nurse to gather information directly from the patient to understand the situation fully and provide appropriate support. Choice B is incorrect because it assumes the woman's husband is the perpetrator without giving her a chance to disclose the information herself. This can be intimidating and may not lead to a truthful response. Choice C is incorrect because it implies blame on the victim for the abuse, which is not appropriate. It does not focus on providing support or understanding the situation. Choice D is incorrect as it puts the responsibility on the victim to prevent the abuse, which is not a helpful approach. The focus should be on providing support and understanding the victim's situation.
Question 4 of 5
During a treatment team meeting, the point is made that a client with schizophrenia has recovered from the acute psychosis but continues to demonstrate apathy, avolition, and blunted affect. The nurse who relates these symptoms to serotonin (SHT2) excess will suggest that the client receive:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Olanzapine (Zyprexa) is an atypical antipsychotic that targets multiple neurotransmitter systems, including serotonin. Serotonin excess is associated with symptoms like apathy, avolition, and blunted affect. Olanzapine, by blocking serotonin receptors, can help alleviate these symptoms in schizophrenia. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Haloperidol and B: Chlorpromazine are typical antipsychotics that primarily target dopamine receptors, not serotonin. They are more effective for positive symptoms of schizophrenia, not apathy and avolition. D: Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used for depression and anxiety disorders, not for schizophrenia symptoms related to serotonin excess.
Question 5 of 5
When a patient with paranoid schizophrenia has a recurrence of positive symptoms after stopping his antipsychotic medication because of its postural hypotension (orthostasis) side effect, he is readmitted to the mental health unit. What measure should the nurse suggest to help the patient address this side effect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because orthostatic hypotension is a common side effect of antipsychotic medications. Elastic support hose can help improve venous return, adequate fluids can prevent dehydration which worsens hypotension, and changing position slowly can prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. This measure directly addresses the side effect. A: Anticholinergic drugs can worsen orthostatic hypotension. B: Chewing gum or using candy does not address the physiological issue of orthostatic hypotension. C: Increasing sleep and rest breaks may help overall well-being but does not directly address orthostatic hypotension.