When a patient is diagnosed with major depressive disorder, which nursing diagnosis should be the priority?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Risk for suicide. This is the priority nursing diagnosis because individuals with major depressive disorder have an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behaviors. Assessing and addressing this risk is crucial for patient safety. Choice A is not the priority as nutritional imbalances may not pose immediate harm compared to suicide risk. Choice C, disturbed sleep pattern, and choice D, ineffective coping, are important but not as critical as addressing the risk of suicide in a patient with major depressive disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with OCD who performs hand washing repeatedly is to allow the patient to wash hands at specified times (Choice C). This approach promotes a balance between addressing the patient's need for cleanliness and preventing excessive hand washing. By allowing the patient to wash hands at specific times, the nurse can help establish a routine that provides a sense of control for the patient while also setting boundaries to prevent excessive behavior. Restricting the patient from washing hands (Choice A) can lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Setting strict limits on hand washing (Choice B) may also trigger anxiety and escalate the behavior. Ignoring the patient's behavior (Choice D) does not address the underlying issue and can lead to worsening symptoms. Ultimately, Choice C supports a therapeutic approach that acknowledges the patient's needs while promoting healthier coping strategies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a low-stimulation environment. This is effective because it helps reduce excessive sensory input which can trigger or exacerbate manic symptoms. Manic patients are often sensitive to stimuli, so a calm and quiet environment can help in de-escalating their agitation and hyperactivity. A: Encouraging group activities can be overwhelming for a manic patient due to the increased stimulation and potential for overstimulation. C: Allowing free movement may lead to risky behaviors or agitation, as the patient may not be able to self-regulate effectively. D: Engaging in competitive games can escalate the manic symptoms and potentially lead to aggressive or impulsive behaviors. In summary, providing a low-stimulation environment is the most effective intervention as it helps manage manic symptoms by reducing triggers and promoting a sense of calm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitoring the patient's weight weekly. This intervention is essential in the care plan for a patient with anorexia nervosa as it helps track their progress, assess nutritional status, and identify any concerning weight fluctuations. Regular weight monitoring allows healthcare providers to make timely adjustments to the treatment plan. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: A: Allowing the patient to eat alone to reduce stress - This choice is incorrect as isolation during meals can exacerbate the patient's eating disorder behaviors and hinder their recovery. C: Encouraging the patient to exercise daily - Exercise may not be appropriate for a patient with anorexia nervosa due to the risk of excessive physical activity exacerbating their condition. D: Providing the patient with a high-calorie diet - While increasing calorie intake may be necessary for weight restoration, it should be done under close supervision by healthcare providers and tailored to the individual's needs, making this choice incorrect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Buspirone. Buspirone is frequently prescribed for patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) as it is a non-addictive anxiolytic medication that is effective in managing chronic anxiety symptoms without the risk of dependence or tolerance. It works by targeting serotonin receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety levels. A: Fluoxetine and B: Sertraline are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) commonly used for depression and some types of anxiety disorders, but they are not typically first-line treatments for GAD. D: Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that is fast-acting but carries a high risk of dependence and tolerance, making it less suitable for long-term management of GAD.