The wife of a patient with schizophrenia is worried about her 17-year-old daughter and asks the nurse what symptoms mark the prodromal stage of schizophrenia. The nurse should respond by listing behaviors such as:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the symptoms listed: withdrawal, poor concentration, phobic or obsessive behavior, and oddities of speech are characteristic of the prodromal stage of schizophrenia. During this phase, individuals may start to exhibit subtle changes in behavior and thinking, which may signal the onset of the disorder. Choice B includes symptoms of active psychosis, such as auditory hallucinations and delusions, which are not typically seen in the prodromal stage. Choice C describes symptoms of catatonia, which are not specific to the prodromal phase. Choice D includes symptoms of acute psychosis, such as paranoid delusions, which are not typically present during the prodromal stage. In summary, the correct answer is A because it accurately reflects the early, subtle symptoms that may precede the full onset of schizophrenia, while the other choices describe symptoms that are more indicative of later stages of the disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because teaching the patient and family about behaviors indicating an impending relapse helps in early detection and intervention. This empowers them to recognize warning signs like changes in behavior or mood, allowing for prompt action. Choice A (group therapy) may be beneficial for support but does not directly address relapse prevention. Choice B (medication adherence) is crucial but not specific to relapse management. Choice D (blood tests) is important for monitoring medication levels but does not focus on recognizing relapse indicators.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it uses clear, simple language to explain the procedure to the patient. It acknowledges the patient's delusions by asking them to sit and calmly states the thermometer will be placed under their tongue. This approach is likely to minimize the patient's anxiety and increase cooperation. Option A is incorrect as it may cause the patient to feel apprehensive due to the mention of "hurt." Option B is incorrect because it does not provide specific instructions about the procedure, which may lead to confusion for the patient. Option D is incorrect as it does not address the patient's delusions or provide clear instructions, potentially leading to increased resistance from the patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Word salad. This speech disturbance is characterized by a jumble of words that lack coherent meaning or connection. In this case, the client's words are disorganized and nonsensical. Neologism (A) is the creation of new words, not a jumble of existing words. Flight of ideas (C) involves rapid shifts in thoughts without a clear connection, not a jumble of words. Verbigeration (D) is the constant repetition of words or phrases, not a jumble of unrelated words.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Help the individual to identify needs in order to best obtain support. This is the best initial approach because it focuses on understanding the individual's specific needs and circumstances before taking any further action. By identifying needs, the nurse can create a tailored plan to provide appropriate support and resources. Option A is incorrect because teaching the individual to avoid provoking the abuser places the responsibility on the victim rather than addressing the root cause of the abuse. Option B, filing a police report, may not be the best initial step as it may not take into consideration the individual's safety concerns or emotional well-being. Option D, moving the individual to a safe house, may not be feasible or desired by the individual without first understanding their needs and preferences.