A nurse in an acute mental health care facility is prioritizing care for multiple clients.
Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?
A client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder and is upset about a change in daily routine.
A client who is taking clozapine to treat schizophrenia and reports a sore throat.
A client who has narcissistic personality disorder and is mocking others during group therapy.
A client who has depressive disorder and requires assistance with ADLs.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
A client with obsessive-compulsive disorder being upset about a change in daily routine is concerning but does not present an immediate threat to their physical health or require urgent attention compared to a potential medical emergency like a sore throat.
Choice B rationale:
Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic, can cause agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a severe reduction in white blood cell count. Sore throat could be an early sign of this serious adverse effect. Therefore, a client taking clozapine reporting a sore throat requires immediate evaluation to rule out agranulocytosis, which can progress rapidly if not addressed promptly.
Choice C rationale:
A client with narcissistic personality disorder mocking others during group therapy is disruptive and inappropriate behavior but does not require immediate attention unless it escalates into a situation that threatens the safety of others or the therapeutic environment.
Choice D rationale:
A client with depressive disorder requiring assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) needs support and care, but this does not indicate an urgent situation. While assistance with ADLs is important for the client's well-being, it is not a priority over a potential medical emergency like agranulocytosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Absence seizures typically last for a few seconds, not 30 to 60 seconds. This choice is incorrect because it provides inaccurate information about the duration of absence seizures.
Choice B rationale:
Absence seizures are brief episodes of staring that can be mistaken for daydreaming. It is crucial for the parent to recognize this symptom to ensure the child's safety and seek appropriate medical attention if needed.
Choice C rationale:
Absence seizures usually occur without warning or an aura. There is no specific warning sign before the onset of absence seizures, making this choice incorrect.
Choice D rationale:
Absence seizures have a sudden onset and offset without any warning signs, so they do not have a gradual onset. This information is incorrect regarding absence seizures.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An altered level of consciousness is a common finding in clients with Alzheimer's disease. This may range from mild confusion to severe cognitive impairment. It is caused by the degeneration of brain cells and affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
Choice B rationale:
Rapid mood swings are not specific to Alzheimer's disease. While mood changes can occur, they are not typically characterized by rapid swings. Mood disturbances may include depression, apathy, or irritability, but these symptoms are not unique to Alzheimer's disease.
Choice C rationale:
Excessive motor activity is not a typical finding in clients with Alzheimer's disease. Instead, clients often experience a decline in motor skills and coordination as the disease progresses. Restlessness or agitation might occur, but excessive motor activity is not a characteristic feature.
Choice D rationale:
Failure to recognize familiar objects, people, or places is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease. This is due to the damage and loss of nerve cells in the brain. As the disease advances, clients may have difficulty recognizing even close family members or their own reflection in the mirror.
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