When sharing her feelings about separating from a therapy group, the patient stated, “I feel a bit sad and empty that I won’t be seeing you folks again.” What is the most accurate evaluation of the patient’s statement?

Questions 29

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Kaplan and Sadocks Synopsis of Psychiatry Test Bank Questions

Question 1 of 9

When sharing her feelings about separating from a therapy group, the patient stated, “I feel a bit sad and empty that I won’t be seeing you folks again.” What is the most accurate evaluation of the patient’s statement?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the patient expressing feeling sad and empty about leaving the therapy group is a normal response to the termination of therapy. This indicates that the patient has developed attachments and a sense of belonging within the group, which is a common aspect of group therapy. It shows emotional investment in the therapeutic process and signifies progress in the patient's emotional awareness and ability to express feelings. Choice A is incorrect because the statement does not necessarily indicate regression but rather a normal emotional response. Choice B is incorrect as it assumes unconscious motivations without evidence. Choice D is incorrect as it is not necessary to question the patient's readiness based on the provided statement.

Question 2 of 9

The nurse is determining whether the patient’s needs could be best met in a task or a process group. The decision is based on the understanding that a task group focuses on:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The "here and now." In a task group, the focus is on addressing specific goals, tasks, and problem-solving in the present moment. This approach helps members work together efficiently to achieve objectives. Communication styles (B) are more relevant in a group focused on improving communication skills. Relations among the members (C) are typically emphasized in a process group, where the focus is on interpersonal dynamics and relationships. Choice D is incomplete and does not align with the purpose of a task group.

Question 3 of 9

Which initial short-term outcome would be appropriate for a patient admitted with delusional thoughts?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, engage in reality-oriented conversation. This is appropriate because it helps the patient ground themselves in reality and potentially reduce the intensity of their delusions. By discussing real-life events and situations, the patient is encouraged to recognize the disparity between their delusional thoughts and actual reality. Choice A is incorrect as simply accepting the delusion as illogical does not actively address the patient's condition. Choice B, distinguishing external boundaries, is not as effective in directly challenging the delusional thoughts. Choice C, explaining the basis for the delusions, may not be helpful initially as the patient may not be receptive to logical explanations due to their distorted thinking.

Question 4 of 9

A patient living in community housing for the elderly says, “I don’t go to the senior citizens club. They play cards and talk about the past because that’s all they can do.” The nurse analyzes these remarks to represent:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Thinking associated with ageism. This is because the patient's statement reflects a negative stereotype about older adults, assuming they are limited to playing cards and reminiscing about the past. Ageism involves discrimination or prejudice based on someone's age, which can lead to stereotyping and marginalization. A: Failure to achieve developmental tasks - This choice does not directly relate to the patient's statement about ageism. B: Hypercritical behavior - The patient's statement does not indicate hypercritical behavior, but rather a biased perspective on aging. C: Paranoid thinking - The patient's statement does not demonstrate paranoid thinking, but rather a biased view of older adults based on ageist beliefs. In summary, the correct answer is D as the patient's remarks reflect ageist thinking, while the other choices do not align with the content of the patient's statement.

Question 5 of 9

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) provides standards of care for which of the following?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Older adults. OBRA primarily focuses on setting standards of care for older adults in long-term care facilities, ensuring their safety and well-being. This is because older adults are a vulnerable population requiring specialized care and attention. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because OBRA does not specifically address very young individuals, those with intellectual communication difficulties, or individuals without medical insurance. The Act mainly pertains to the care and rights of older adults in long-term care settings.

Question 6 of 9

During a grief-processing group, an elderly patient stated, “For the first time since my husband died, I’m having more good days than bad.” This statement suggests that the patient has:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Completed her "grief work" successfully. This statement indicates progress in the grieving process, moving towards acceptance and healing. The patient acknowledging having more good days than bad reflects a positive shift in coping with the loss, indicating that she has processed her grief and is beginning to adapt to life without her husband. This suggests that the patient has worked through her emotions, memories, and adjustments related to the loss, reaching a point where she is experiencing more peace and acceptance. Summary: A: Reestablishment is not the correct choice as it does not specifically address the completion of the grief work. B: Determining readiness to terminate the support group is premature, as the patient may still benefit from continued support. D: Replacing old memories with new ones is not supported by the patient's statement and does not necessarily indicate successful grief processing.

Question 7 of 9

Which of the following meets the DSM-IV-TR criteria for moderate mental retardation?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the DSM-IV-TR criteria for moderate mental retardation includes an IQ range of 35-49, which typically corresponds to functioning at around the level of a 6 to 9-year-old. Choice D best fits this criteria as the individual has advanced to the sixth grade level academically, indicating a level of functioning consistent with moderate mental retardation. Choices A, B, and C do not meet the criteria as they suggest a higher level of functioning and independence than what is typically associated with moderate mental retardation.

Question 8 of 9

A child who has been physically abused becomes emotionally distressed when told that the parent will no longer be allowed to visit. Which principle of social learning theory explains the child’s response?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The child believes they are responsible for the parent being punished. According to social learning theory, individuals learn behaviors through observation and modeling. In this scenario, the child has internalized the belief that they are the cause of the parent's punishment due to the abuse. This leads to feelings of guilt and distress when the parent is no longer allowed to visit. A: The child does not view abuse as desirable; it is a harmful behavior. B: While fear may be present, the core issue lies in the child's belief of responsibility. D: The parent blaming the child for the abuse does not align with the principles of social learning theory.

Question 9 of 9

A 70-year-old male has the nursing diagnosis of situational low self-esteem related to forced retirement. Using Maslow’s hierarchy, the nurse is confident the patient is meeting self-worth outcomes when the patient:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because volunteering at the local homeless shelter fulfills the self-actualization need in Maslow's hierarchy. By helping others and contributing to the community, the patient gains a sense of purpose and fulfillment, boosting self-esteem. A: Moving to a secure apartment building addresses safety needs, not self-esteem. B: Exercising with friends promotes social belonging but does not directly address self-esteem. C: Attending grandchildren's functions fosters social connections, but it may not directly impact self-esteem like volunteering does.

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