ATI RN
Population Based Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
The wife of a client diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia asks, 'I've been told that my husband's illness is probably related to imbalanced brain chemicals. Can you be more specific?' The response based on the dopamine hypothesis is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-By-Step Rationale: 1. The dopamine hypothesis states that an increase in dopamine is linked to delusions and hallucinations in schizophrenia. 2. Delusions and hallucinations are common positive symptoms of schizophrenia. 3. Therefore, choice A is correct as it directly aligns with the dopamine hypothesis and the symptoms observed in paranoid schizophrenia. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B. Incorrect because an increase in dopamine is not typically associated with lack of motivation and disordered affect in schizophrenia. C. Incorrect because decreased amounts of dopamine are not linked to delusions and hallucinations in schizophrenia. D. Incorrect because the breakdown of dopamine producing LSD and causing psychosis is not supported by the dopamine hypothesis in schizophrenia.
Question 2 of 5
A highly suspicious patient who has delusions of persecution about being poisoned has refused all hospital meals for 3 days. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate under these circumstances?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: In this scenario, the patient is refusing hospital meals due to delusions of being poisoned, indicating a lack of trust. Step 2: By allowing supervised access to food vending machines in the hospital lobby, the patient can choose his own food, promoting autonomy and trust-building. Step 3: This intervention respects the patient's autonomy while ensuring access to food. Step 4: In contrast, feeding via tube involuntarily (Option A) violates autonomy, tasting food yourself (Option B) doesn't address the issue of trust, and ordering from a restaurant (Option C) may not be feasible or safe in a hospital setting. Summary: Option D is the most appropriate as it balances patient autonomy and safety, addressing the refusal of hospital meals effectively.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with schizophrenia has been stabilized in the Crisis Center and is about to be discharged. He will be living with his family, but the family knows nothing about the patient's illness, its treatment, or the role they can play in his recovery. Which activity would be most beneficial for the family to attend?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Psychoeducational group. This option is most beneficial as it provides education and information to the family about the patient's illness, treatment options, and ways they can support his recovery. It helps them understand the challenges the patient faces and equips them with practical strategies to assist in his recovery process. A: Psychoanalytic group focuses on exploring unconscious patterns of behavior and may not provide the necessary education and tools for the family to support the patient effectively. C: Individual counseling is focused on the patient and may not involve the family members in understanding the illness and their role in the patient's recovery. D: Family therapy involves the whole family in therapy sessions, but may not specifically focus on educating them about schizophrenia and its treatment, which is crucial for their support.
Question 4 of 5
A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has difficulty completing tasks and seems forgetful and disinterested in unit activities. A nurse can best select successful strategies by understanding that these behaviors are due to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: problems in cognitive functioning. In schizophrenia, cognitive deficits are common, leading to difficulties in completing tasks, forgetfulness, and lack of interest. Understanding this helps the nurse select appropriate strategies, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps. Choice A (lack of self-esteem) is incorrect as cognitive deficits in schizophrenia are not solely related to self-esteem. Choice B (manipulative tendencies) is incorrect as these behaviors are not indicative of manipulation. Choice C (shyness and embarrassment) is incorrect as cognitive deficits in schizophrenia go beyond social anxiety.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with schizophrenia repeatedly asks for directions and the time of day. The nurse should:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because patients with schizophrenia may have cognitive impairments affecting memory and orientation, leading to repetitive questioning. By repeating information in a kind, matter-of-fact manner, the nurse can address the patient's needs without causing distress. Choice B may be helpful, but verbal reinforcement is essential for immediate clarification. Choice C is incorrect as it may exacerbate the patient's distress and worsen the therapeutic relationship. Choice D does not address the underlying cognitive issue and may come across as dismissive.