Tony, age 21, has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. He has been socially isolated and hearing voices telling him to kill his parents. He has been admitted to the psychiatric unit from the emergency department. The initial nursing intervention for Tony is to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensure a safe environment for him and others. This is the initial nursing intervention because safety is the top priority when dealing with a patient experiencing psychotic symptoms like Tony. By ensuring a safe environment, we can prevent harm to Tony and others. Giving him an injection of Thorazine (choice A) is not the initial step as safety takes precedence. Placing him in restraints (choice C) should only be considered as a last resort for immediate danger. Ordering him a nutritious diet (choice D) is important for his overall well-being but not the immediate priority in this situation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct approach is to call for sufficient help first (choice C) because it prioritizes safety for both the client and staff. By calling for help, the nurse can ensure that there are enough resources to safely manage the aggressive behavior and prevent harm. This approach allows for a team effort in de-escalating the situation and controlling it effectively. Providing large motor activities (choice A) may not be appropriate during an aggressive outburst as it can escalate the situation. Administering medication (choice B) should not be the first response as it does not address the underlying cause of the aggression. Conveying to the client that their behavior is unacceptable (choice D) may further agitate the client and is not likely to de-escalate the situation effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a widely recognized and accepted classification system used by mental health professionals to diagnose and classify mental disorders. The "5" in DSM-5 indicates that it is the fifth edition of this manual. Option A) Diseases and Statistics Manual of Medicine is incorrect because the DSM specifically focuses on mental disorders, not physical diseases, and it is not a manual of medicine. Option B) Diagnosable Standards Manual of Mental Disorders is incorrect because while the DSM does provide standards for diagnosing mental disorders, the actual abbreviation does not stand for this. Option C) Diseases and Symptoms Manual of Mental Disorders is incorrect because while the DSM does include symptoms of mental disorders, it is primarily a diagnostic and statistical manual, not solely focused on symptoms. Understanding the correct abbreviation of DSM-5 is essential for mental health professionals, students, and researchers as it forms the basis for communication, research, and clinical practice in the field of psychology and psychiatry. Familiarity with the DSM-5 helps ensure accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and communication among professionals in the mental health field.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) generalized anxiety disorder. This disorder is characterized by persistent, excessive, and uncontrollable worry about everyday things. It differs from other anxiety disorders listed in the options: A) Panic disorder is characterized by sudden and repeated episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical symptoms. C) Agoraphobia involves fear and avoidance of situations or places that might cause panic, leading to feelings of being trapped or helpless. D) Social anxiety disorder involves overwhelming worry and self-consciousness about everyday social situations. Generalized anxiety disorder stands out because it involves a continuous state of worry and apprehension that is not limited to specific triggers or situations. Understanding the distinctions between these disorders is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Educating individuals about these differences can help reduce stigma, promote understanding, and encourage seeking help for mental health concerns.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this question about symptoms of PTSD, the correct answer is D) physical complaints that cannot be explained medically. This option is not typically considered a core symptom of PTSD. A) Intrusive thoughts or memories of a traumatic event are a hallmark symptom of PTSD, causing distressing re-experiencing of the trauma. B) Avoidance of things that remind one of a traumatic event is another common symptom, where individuals try to avoid triggers that may remind them of the trauma. C) Jumpiness, also known as hypervigilance, is a symptom of increased arousal often seen in individuals with PTSD. Educationally, understanding the symptoms of PTSD is crucial for mental health professionals, first responders, educators, and anyone who may encounter individuals suffering from this disorder. Being able to identify and differentiate between the symptoms allows for early recognition, intervention, and support for those experiencing PTSD. It is essential to address misconceptions and provide accurate information to reduce stigma and promote appropriate care for individuals with psychobiological disorders like PTSD.