Which symptom is most characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

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: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Aged cheese. MAOIs interact with tyramine in certain foods like aged cheese, leading to dangerous hypertensive crisis. Aged cheese contains high levels of tyramine, which can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure when combined with MAOIs. Fresh vegetables (B), grilled chicken (C), and fruit juices (D) do not have high levels of tyramine and can be safely consumed with MAOIs. It is crucial for patients taking MAOIs to avoid foods rich in tyramine to prevent adverse reactions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Exploration. This therapeutic communication technique encourages the patient to expand on their feelings, promoting exploration of thoughts and emotions. By asking the patient to elaborate on their feelings, the nurse facilitates deeper understanding. Restating (A) involves repeating the patient's words back to them. Clarification (B) is seeking to understand the patient's meaning. Reflection (C) involves mirroring the patient's emotions. In this scenario, the nurse is prompting the patient to delve further into their emotions, making exploration the most appropriate technique.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the primary goal of cognitive processing therapy in PTSD is to help the patient understand the impact of trauma on their current thoughts and behaviors. This involves identifying and challenging maladaptive beliefs and cognitive distortions related to the trauma. By gaining insight into how the trauma has influenced their thoughts and behaviors, the patient can work towards changing these patterns and improving their psychological well-being. Choice A is incorrect because while processing the trauma and reducing avoidance behaviors are important aspects of therapy, they are not the primary goal in cognitive processing therapy. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses solely on confronting and processing the trauma, missing the crucial component of understanding its impact on thoughts and behaviors. Choice D is incorrect because avoidance of triggers is not the primary goal; rather, it is about addressing and modifying the cognitive responses to those triggers.

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.