ATI RN
Kaplan and Sadocks Synopsis of Psychiatry Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
When a patient asks the nurse, “How can jolting me with an electrical shock possibly do me any good?” the answer most reflective of current biologic theory would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment for severe depression and other mental health disorders. Step 2: Current biological theory suggests that ECT produces changes in brain chemistry, specifically neurotransmitters, leading to improved mood. Step 3: The correct answer (A) aligns with this theory by explaining how ECT impacts brain chemistry to alleviate symptoms. Step 4: Answer B is incorrect as ECT is not used as punishment but as a therapeutic intervention. Step 5: Answer C is incorrect as ECT is not primarily used to interrupt brain impulses causing hallucinations and delusions. Step 6: Answer D is incorrect as ECT does not shock the brain into re-establishing normal electrical patterns but rather affects neurotransmitter levels.
Question 2 of 5
When differentiating between bereavement symptoms and depression, the nurse will base the formulation on knowledge that in bereavement:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because in bereavement, symptoms of grief and sadness tend to come and go, known as remitting and exacerbating, as the individual processes the loss over time. This is a normal part of the grieving process. On the other hand, in depression, symptoms are persistent and may not improve without intervention. Guilt feelings being overwhelming (B) is common in both bereavement and depression. Suicide thoughts being common (C) can occur in severe depression but are not a distinguishing factor between bereavement and depression. Psychomotor retardation being obvious (D) is a symptom more commonly associated with severe depression rather than bereavement.
Question 3 of 5
A teen is grieving the loss of her pet dog. She states to her mother, “I miss my dog so much, but I know that if I start crying, I will never stop.” The teen is expressing a fear of:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Losing control over her emotions. The teen's statement indicates a fear of losing control if she starts crying. This fear suggests that she believes crying will lead to an inability to stop, indicating a concern about managing her emotions. This fear of losing control over her emotions aligns with the teen's hesitance to express her grief through tears. A: Appearing emotionally immature - This choice is incorrect as the teen's statement does not directly suggest a fear of appearing emotionally immature. B: Embarrassing herself by crying in public - This choice is incorrect as the teen's statement does not mention a fear of embarrassment. C: Losing the support of her friends and family - This choice is incorrect as the teen's statement does not indicate a fear of losing support from others.
Question 4 of 5
A woman whose abusive husband was killed in an automobile accident 3 years earlier continues to idealize him and repeatedly talks about their “wonderful relationship.” Which outcome is most appropriate for the patient? Patient will:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Choice C is correct because it encourages the patient to express both positive and negative feelings about her husband and their relationship. This approach helps the patient process complex emotions and move towards a more realistic view of the past. It promotes emotional healing and growth by allowing the patient to acknowledge and work through conflicting feelings. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: While emotional support is important, simply enlisting the support of family and friends may not address the underlying issues of idealization and unresolved emotions. B: Keeping a daily journal may reinforce the idealization of the husband and could potentially hinder the patient's progress in coming to terms with the reality of the relationship. D: Reading about abuse and support groups may provide information, but it does not directly address the patient's need to explore and express her own feelings about her husband and their relationship.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse determines that the most effective point of intervention for bereavement is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because promoting mental and spiritual health across the lifespan addresses bereavement proactively by providing support and resources before, during, and after losses occur. This approach allows individuals to build resilience and cope effectively with grief. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on impending loss, missing the opportunity for early intervention. Choice C is incorrect as immediate intervention may not be suitable for everyone and may overlook the importance of ongoing support. Choice D is incorrect as waiting for the patient to request intervention may delay support and hinder the healing process.