ATI RN
Age Specific Considerations in Patient Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which complication is most likely in a patient with bulimia nervosa who purges frequently?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Purging in bulimia nervosa involves self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives, leading to fluid and electrolyte loss. This can result in dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and potentially life-threatening complications like cardiac arrhythmias. Increased appetite and weight gain (B) are less likely due to purging. Improved digestion and nutrient absorption (C) are not associated with frequent purging. High blood pressure and rapid heart rate (D) may occur in severe cases but are not the most likely complication.
Question 2 of 5
What is the most appropriate nursing goal for a patient with bulimia nervosa?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: To eliminate binge-purge episodes and restore healthy eating habits. This goal is appropriate as it addresses the core issue of bulimia nervosa, which is the cycle of bingeing and purging. By focusing on eliminating these episodes and promoting healthy eating habits, the patient can achieve long-term recovery. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the underlying psychological and behavioral aspects of bulimia nervosa. Weight loss and body image issues (B) may exacerbate the disorder, monitoring calorie intake and restricting food consumption (C) can reinforce the cycle of bingeing and purging, and encouraging excessive exercise (D) can lead to further health complications.
Question 3 of 5
A client with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder seeks treatment for depression after the recent breakup of a relationship. The client constantly procrastinated about proposing marriage and said his girlfriend complained that he did not show her affection and that he was too controlling. Now he describes inability to sleep, poor concentration, and loss of energy since the breakup. Which outcome is a priority for the client? The client will:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Identify feelings of sadness related to the failed relationship. This is the priority outcome because the client's current symptoms of depression, such as inability to sleep, poor concentration, and loss of energy, are likely related to the breakup. By identifying and processing feelings of sadness, the client can begin to work through the grief and emotional distress caused by the failed relationship, which can help alleviate the depressive symptoms. Choice A (Demonstrate assertive behavior) is not the priority outcome as the client's primary issue is related to depression and processing emotions, not assertiveness. Choice B (Express hope for developing a new relationship in the future) may be important for the client's overall well-being, but it is not the immediate priority for addressing the current depressive symptoms. Choice D (List three new ways to reduce stress) may be helpful in managing symptoms, but it does not address the core issue of processing emotions related to the breakup.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with borderline personality disorder has been making steady progress but one day gets a phone call from her boyfriend, who breaks off their relationship. Although she has not self-injured in over 2 months, she makes repeated lacerations on her forearm. Which statement about this and most maladaptive behaviors seen in personality disorders is most accurate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: However dysfunctional, most behavior is the person's best effort to cope. In this scenario, the patient's self-injury following the breakup is a maladaptive coping mechanism to deal with emotional distress. Individuals with personality disorders often engage in maladaptive behaviors as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or stress. This behavior may not be effective or healthy, but it is their attempt to manage their internal struggles. A: People with personality disorders rarely achieve lasting improvement - This statement is incorrect as individuals with personality disorders can make progress with therapy and support. C: People with personality disorders are at the mercy of others' actions - This statement is incorrect as individuals with personality disorders have agency over their behaviors, even if they struggle with emotional regulation. D: What appears to be improvement can be manipulation instead - This statement is incorrect as improvement in behavior should not be automatically attributed to manipulation; it could genuinely reflect progress in coping skills.
Question 5 of 5
Of the following interventions, which one would likely be most useful when attempting to prevent or lessen the symptoms associated with sundown syndrome?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because interacting frequently with the patient during evening hours can help provide comfort and reassurance, reducing anxiety and agitation associated with sundown syndrome. Interacting can stimulate the patient's senses and distract from negative symptoms. Choice A is incorrect because a quiet and dimly lit room alone may not address the underlying emotional and psychological needs of the patient during sundown syndrome. Choice C is incorrect because a large protein-based bedtime snack may not directly impact the behavioral symptoms of sundown syndrome. Choice D is incorrect because while a soft stuffed animal can provide some comfort, it may not address the need for human interaction and engagement during the evening hours to prevent or lessen sundown syndrome symptoms.