Which individual diagnosed with a mental illness may need emergency or involuntary hospitalization for mental illness?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of behavioral nursing, the correct answer is option C) The patient who throws a heavy plate at a waiter at the direction of command hallucinations. This individual's behavior poses an immediate threat to others, indicating a need for emergency intervention and possible involuntary hospitalization for their safety and the safety of those around them. Option A) The patient who resumes using heroin while still taking methadone, although concerning, does not necessarily warrant emergency or involuntary hospitalization unless there is an immediate risk of harm to self or others due to the drug use. Option B) The patient who reports hearing angels playing harps during thunderstorms may be experiencing auditory hallucinations, which can be distressing and indicative of mental illness, but unless there is a clear indication of imminent danger, emergency hospitalization may not be required. Option D) The patient who does not show up for an outpatient appointment with the mental health nurse may indicate non-compliance or difficulties engaging in treatment, but it does not necessarily warrant emergency hospitalization unless there are other concerning factors present. In a clinical setting, it is crucial for healthcare providers to assess the level of risk posed by a patient's behaviors or symptoms to determine the appropriate course of action, which may include emergency intervention or involuntary hospitalization to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual and others. This question highlights the importance of recognizing when immediate intervention is necessary in cases where there is a clear and present danger associated with a patient's mental health condition.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the best response for the nurse is option B: "It sounds like you're feeling very frightened and distrustful right now." This response demonstrates therapeutic communication by acknowledging and reflecting the patient's feelings without dismissing or contradicting them. It shows empathy and validates the patient's experience, which can help build trust and rapport. Option A is incorrect because it denies the patient's feelings and reality, which can increase the patient's distress and worsen the therapeutic relationship. Option C is inappropriate as it places undue pressure on the patient to trust others, which may not be feasible or therapeutic at that moment. Option D, while acknowledging the patient's feelings, fails to reflect back the emotions expressed by the patient, missing an opportunity for empathetic connection. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of using therapeutic communication techniques in psychiatric nursing. Validating the patient's feelings, even if they are based on delusions, is crucial for building trust and rapport in the nurse-patient relationship. By understanding and acknowledging the patient's emotions, nurses can create a supportive environment for individuals with schizophrenia to feel heard and understood.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for a patient on lithium for a mood disorder, monitoring for side effects is crucial. The correct answer is C) Polyuria, polydipsia, and fine hand tremors. Lithium is known to cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, leading to increased urination (polyuria) and thirst (polydipsia). Fine hand tremors are also common with lithium use. Option A) Tremors, nausea, and weight gain are more commonly associated with antipsychotic medications, not lithium used for mood disorders. Option B) Blurred vision, dizziness, and hyperactivity are not typical side effects of lithium. These symptoms may be seen with other medications or conditions, but not specifically with lithium. Option D) Fatigue, drowsiness, and headache are not primary side effects of lithium. While fatigue and drowsiness can occur, they are less common compared to the symptoms listed in option C. Educationally, understanding the side effects of psychiatric medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Recognizing the specific side effects of lithium helps in early detection and management, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of preparing a client for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it is crucial for the client to have a clear understanding of what to expect during the procedure. Option A, "This procedure will cause me to have brief seizures," is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the nature of ECT. ECT involves inducing a controlled seizure in the brain to help alleviate symptoms of certain mental health conditions. Option B, "I will be able to eat breakfast prior to my procedure," is incorrect because typically, clients undergoing ECT are required to fast prior to the procedure to reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration. Option C, "I will not need to have a pre-ECT workup before the procedure," is incorrect because a thorough pre-ECT workup is essential to ensure the client's safety and appropriateness for ECT treatment. Option D, "One ECT treatment will be effective for my depression," is incorrect because ECT is usually administered over a series of treatments to achieve optimal therapeutic benefits. From an educational perspective, it is important for nurses to provide accurate information to clients undergoing ECT to alleviate anxiety and ensure informed decision-making. Understanding the procedure helps clients feel more in control and engaged in their treatment, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Executive function. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by progressive cognitive decline, particularly in areas such as memory, language, and executive function. Executive function refers to the ability to plan, organize, and manage tasks effectively, including multitasking. Individuals with Alzheimer's often struggle with executive functions due to damage in the frontal lobes of the brain. Option A) Perceptual-motor deficits involve coordination and movement issues, which are not typically associated with Alzheimer's disease. Option B) Learning and memory deficits are common in Alzheimer's but do not directly relate to the ability to multitask. Option D) Complex attention involves sustained focus and concentration, which is different from the ability to multitask and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Educationally, understanding the specific cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease is crucial for nurses caring for patients with this condition. By recognizing the impact of executive function impairment on multitasking abilities, nurses can provide appropriate support and interventions to help patients maintain their independence and quality of life.