Which of the following is a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Excessive worry about a variety of topics. This is a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder as individuals experience persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of their lives. This worry is difficult to control and can interfere with daily functioning. Choice B is incorrect because hyperactivity and impulsivity are more characteristic of conditions like ADHD rather than generalized anxiety disorder. Choice C is incorrect as euphoria and grandiosity are symptoms of conditions like bipolar disorder, not generalized anxiety disorder. Choice D is incorrect as hallucinations are not typically associated with generalized anxiety disorder but may be seen in conditions like schizophrenia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assessing for signs of extrapyramidal symptoms. This is the priority intervention because antipsychotic medications can cause extrapyramidal symptoms, which can be serious and require immediate attention. Monitoring for these symptoms allows for early detection and intervention to prevent further complications. A: Monitoring for signs of weight loss and dehydration is important but not the priority compared to assessing for extrapyramidal symptoms. B: Encouraging the patient to maintain adequate hydration and nutrition is important for overall health but not the priority in this case. C: Providing education on the importance of taking the medication daily is essential but assessing for potential side effects takes precedence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because encouraging the patient to participate in small, achievable activities aligns with behavioral activation therapy, which is an evidence-based approach for treating depression. By engaging in activities, the patient can experience a sense of accomplishment, boost self-esteem, and improve motivation. A: While exercise can be beneficial for depression, it may be overwhelming for a patient feeling tired and unmotivated. B: Trying a new hobby may not address the underlying lack of motivation and may not be achievable for someone with depression. C: Reassurance alone may not be sufficient for addressing the symptoms of depression and medication may not be the only solution.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because severe agitation, tremors, and seizures are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, known as delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening. These symptoms indicate hyperactivity of the central nervous system due to alcohol withdrawal. Monitoring for these symptoms is crucial for early intervention and preventing potential complications. A: Fatigue and lethargy are not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. C: Headaches and nausea are common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal but are not indicative of severe withdrawal requiring immediate intervention. D: Increased appetite and weight gain are not symptoms of alcohol withdrawal; in fact, weight loss is more common due to decreased appetite and malnutrition during withdrawal.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Disorganized thinking and speech. This is a common symptom of schizophrenia known as formal thought disorder. Patients with schizophrenia often have difficulty organizing their thoughts and expressing themselves coherently. This symptom is characteristic of the cognitive deficits associated with the disorder. Incorrect choices: B: Extreme sadness and hopelessness - This describes symptoms of depression, not schizophrenia. C: Excessive worry and fear - This describes symptoms of anxiety disorders, not schizophrenia. D: Hyperactivity and impulsiveness - This describes symptoms of ADHD, not schizophrenia.