Which statement is most likely to be made by a nurse practitioner who shares the philosophy of an interpersonal theorist?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Interpersonal theorists focus on the importance of relationships in shaping an individual's mental health. By emphasizing the impact of relationships on coping abilities, a nurse practitioner who shares this philosophy would be more likely to prioritize exploring how a patient's relationships influence their well-being. This approach aligns with the key principles of interpersonal theory, making statement B the most likely choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's perspective and beliefs about their depression being solely due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, it is also essential to educate the client about the complex interplay between biological, environmental, and interpersonal factors in mental health. By expressing that medications are one way to address chemical imbalances but pointing out that other factors can also impact mental health, the nurse encourages a more holistic view of mental well-being. This response opens up the conversation to the possibility of exploring various treatment options beyond just medication, such as therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support. It promotes a collaborative approach to managing depression that considers the individual as a whole rather than focusing solely on biological factors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals across synapses, the junctions between neurons. In schizophrenia, there can be imbalances in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These imbalances can contribute to symptoms like emotional blunting, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal. Therefore, in the case of a withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia who expresses little emotion and refuses group therapy, the nurse should recognize that altered neurotransmitter function is implicated in this behavior. It is crucial to address these neurotransmitter imbalances through appropriate medications and interventions to help manage the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve the client's overall well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Anorexia nervosa is a mental illness that is typically associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone levels. Prolactin is responsible for various functions in the body, including milk production in females. In individuals with anorexia nervosa, the body experiences hormonal imbalances due to malnutrition and extreme weight loss, leading to decreased levels of prolactin. Therefore, a nurse should identify anorexia nervosa as the mental illness associated with a decrease in prolactin hormone level.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. A decrease in GABA levels can lead to increased excitability in the brain, which is associated with anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. GABA acts as a calming agent, helping to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear. Individuals with panic disorder may have lower levels of GABA, contributing to their symptoms of intense fear and anxiety attacks. Therefore, a decrease in GABA levels is most closely associated with panic disorder among the options provided.