Which of the following medications is commonly used to treat panic disorder?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Diazepam. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to treat panic disorder due to its anxiolytic properties. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Lithium (A) is typically used to treat bipolar disorder, not panic disorder. Haloperidol (C) and Clozapine (D) are antipsychotic medications primarily used for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, not panic disorder. Diazepam is the most suitable choice for treating panic disorder due to its anxiolytic effects and quick onset of action.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Difficulty sleeping. This finding is most concerning because it can indicate severe depression or potential suicidal ideation. Insomnia is a common symptom of major depressive disorder and can exacerbate the patient's condition. It is important to address sleep disturbances promptly to prevent further deterioration. Rationale for why other choices are incorrect: A: Decreased interest in activities is a common symptom of major depressive disorder but may not necessarily indicate immediate risk. B: Feelings of worthlessness are also common in depression but may not be as urgent as sleep disturbances. D: Changes in appetite can be a symptom of depression, but difficulty sleeping poses a more immediate concern for potential harm to the patient's well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Duloxetine. Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat both major depressive disorder and neuropathic pain by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. Gabapentin (A) is primarily used for neuropathic pain, Amitriptyline (C) is a tricyclic antidepressant used for depression and neuropathic pain, and Tramadol (D) is an opioid analgesic used for pain management but not typically for major depressive disorder.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, developing a safety plan with the patient. This intervention is crucial for addressing self-harm behaviors in patients with borderline personality disorder. A safety plan helps the patient identify triggers, warning signs, coping strategies, and support networks to prevent self-harm. It also outlines specific steps to take in a crisis situation. This intervention is more direct and practical compared to the other options. A: Keeping a journal may be helpful for self-reflection but may not provide immediate strategies to prevent self-harm. B: Setting boundaries is important but may not directly address self-harm behaviors. C: Providing coping skills is beneficial, but a safety plan is more specific and tailored to managing self-harm risks. In summary, developing a safety plan is the most effective intervention for addressing self-harm behaviors in patients with borderline personality disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with OCD who performs hand washing repeatedly is to allow the patient to wash hands at specified times (Choice C). This approach promotes a balance between addressing the patient's need for cleanliness and preventing excessive hand washing. By allowing the patient to wash hands at specific times, the nurse can help establish a routine that provides a sense of control for the patient while also setting boundaries to prevent excessive behavior. Restricting the patient from washing hands (Choice A) can lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Setting strict limits on hand washing (Choice B) may also trigger anxiety and escalate the behavior. Ignoring the patient's behavior (Choice D) does not address the underlying issue and can lead to worsening symptoms. Ultimately, Choice C supports a therapeutic approach that acknowledges the patient's needs while promoting healthier coping strategies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because excessive worrying about various aspects of life is a core symptom of GAD. This persistent and uncontrollable worry is disproportionate to the actual events or situations. Fear of social situations (A) is common in social anxiety disorder, not GAD. Hallucinations (C) are not typically associated with GAD. Impulsive behaviors (D) are more indicative of conditions like ADHD or impulse control disorders.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a low-stimulation environment. This is effective because it helps reduce excessive sensory input which can trigger or exacerbate manic symptoms. Manic patients are often sensitive to stimuli, so a calm and quiet environment can help in de-escalating their agitation and hyperactivity. A: Encouraging group activities can be overwhelming for a manic patient due to the increased stimulation and potential for overstimulation. C: Allowing free movement may lead to risky behaviors or agitation, as the patient may not be able to self-regulate effectively. D: Engaging in competitive games can escalate the manic symptoms and potentially lead to aggressive or impulsive behaviors. In summary, providing a low-stimulation environment is the most effective intervention as it helps manage manic symptoms by reducing triggers and promoting a sense of calm.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Delusions. Positive symptoms of schizophrenia are behaviors or experiences that are added to a person's normal repertoire of functioning. Delusions are a hallmark positive symptom of schizophrenia, characterized by fixed false beliefs that are not based in reality. Apathy (choice A) and social withdrawal (choice B) are negative symptoms, which involve a reduction or absence of normal behaviors. Flat affect (choice D) is also a negative symptom, referring to a lack of emotional expressiveness. In summary, delusions are the correct choice as they represent a positive symptom of schizophrenia, while the other choices are negative symptoms.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Buspirone is not meant for immediate relief, so taking it consistently is crucial for its effectiveness. 2. Buspirone takes time to build up in the body and show its full effect, usually a few weeks. 3. Buspirone is known for having a lower risk of dependency compared to benzodiazepines. 4. Taking buspirone consistently is essential, unlike benzodiazepines which are often taken on an as-needed basis. Therefore, choice A is incorrect as it goes against the appropriate usage of buspirone for treating generalized anxiety disorder.