Which assessment findings are likely for an individual who recently injected heroin?

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Multiple Choice Questions on Psychiatric Emergencies Questions

Question 1 of 5

Which assessment findings are likely for an individual who recently injected heroin?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because injecting heroin typically leads to drowsiness, constricted pupils, and slurred speech due to its depressant effects on the central nervous system. Heroin acts as a sedative, causing drowsiness and slowing down brain function. Constricted pupils, known as pinpoint pupils, are a common physical sign of heroin use. Slurred speech may occur due to the drug's impact on coordination and muscle control. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A: Anxiety, restlessness, paranoid delusions are more commonly associated with stimulant drugs like cocaine or amphetamines. B: Muscle aching, dilated pupils, tachycardia are more indicative of stimulant drug use rather than heroin. C: Heightened sexuality, insomnia, euphoria are effects more commonly seen with stimulant drugs or hallucinogens, not heroin.

Question 2 of 5

When assessing a patient's plan for suicide, what aspect has priority?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because assessing the availability of means and lethality of the method is crucial in preventing suicide. This information helps determine the level of immediate risk and allows for interventions to restrict access to lethal means. It is a priority over the patient's financial and educational status (A) as these factors may not directly impact suicide risk. Patient's insight into suicidal motivation (B) is important but does not address the immediate risk. Quality and availability of social support (D) is significant but assessing means and lethality takes precedence in immediate risk assessment.

Question 3 of 5

After one of their identical twin daughters commits suicide, the parents express concern that the other twin may also have suicidal tendencies. Which reply should the nurse provide?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (A): 1. Genetics play a significant role in suicide risk, as studies have shown a hereditary component. 2. Identical twins share 100% of their genes, making the other twin more vulnerable. 3. Monitoring and support can help identify warning signs and provide necessary interventions. 4. Proactive measures can reduce the risk of suicide in the remaining twin. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B: Apathy is not the primary cause of suicide, and motivation alone is not a comprehensive solution. C: Identifying with a suicide victim may increase the risk of suicidal behavior in the other twin. D: Fraternal twins share only 50% of their genes, so they do not have the same high genetic risk as identical twins.

Question 4 of 5

A patient was arrested for breaking windows in the home of a former domestic partner. The patient's history also reveals childhood abuse by a punitive parent, torturing family pets, and an arrest for disorderly conduct. Which nursing diagnosis has priority?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Risk for other-directed violence. Priority is given to the safety of the patient and others. The patient's history of past violent behavior, including breaking windows and torturing animals, suggests a propensity for violence. This places the patient and others at risk of harm. Option A (Risk for injury) is not as appropriate as it focuses on the patient's risk of self-harm rather than harming others. Option B (Ineffective coping) may be a contributing factor, but the immediate concern is the risk of violence. Option C (Impaired social interaction) does not address the potential for harm. Therefore, prioritizing the diagnosis of Risk for other-directed violence is crucial in ensuring the safety of all involved.

Question 5 of 5

An intramuscular dose of antipsychotic medication needs to be administered to a patient who is becoming increasingly more aggressive and refused to leave the day room. The nurse should enter the day room

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it prioritizes safety and de-escalation by having multiple staff members present for support while maintaining a calm and respectful tone. This approach aims to minimize confrontation and coercion, promoting a collaborative environment. Option A lacks support from additional staff and may not adequately address the patient's escalating behavior. Option C involves physical restraint, which should be avoided unless absolutely necessary for safety. Option D introduces a security guard, potentially escalating the situation and may be perceived as threatening by the patient. Overall, option B is the most appropriate and therapeutic approach in this scenario.

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