A nurse is assessing a client who experienced a sexual assault. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication the client might be experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder?
Increased time sleeping
Inability to express empathy
Auditory hallucinations
Difficulty concentrating
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increased time sleeping:
Increased time sleeping alone is not a specific or direct indicator of PTSD. However, changes in sleep patterns are common in individuals with PTSD, with symptoms like nightmares, insomnia, and disturbances in sleep. These disturbances can lead to increased time in bed, but this alone is not a definitive sign of PTSD.
B. Inability to express empathy:
Inability to express empathy is a complex issue and could be related to various emotional or psychological factors. While people with PTSD can experience difficulties in interpersonal relationships, including issues with empathy, this alone is not a specific indicator of the disorder. PTSD primarily involves symptoms related to re-experiencing trauma, avoidance, negative mood changes, and arousal symptoms.
C. Auditory hallucinations:
Auditory hallucinations, which involve hearing voices or sounds that others do not, are not typically associated with PTSD. This symptom is more commonly linked to conditions like schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders, but it is not specific to PTSD.
D. Difficulty concentrating:
Difficulty concentrating is a common and well-recognized symptom of PTSD. Individuals with PTSD often struggle with focus, memory, and attention due to the intrusion of traumatic thoughts and memories. This symptom can significantly impact their daily functioning and is one of the hallmark features of the disorder.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Recommend that the client participate in more solitary activities.
This option is not suitable because encouraging solitary activities may lead to further isolation, which can worsen the client's depressive feelings. Social support and connection are often crucial during the grieving process.
B. Explain to the client that the duration of grief is highly variable and can last for years.
This is the correct choice. Grief is a complex and individual process, and there is no specific timeline for how long it should last. Some people may continue to experience feelings of sadness and loss for an extended period after the death of a loved one. Validating the client's emotions and letting them know that their experience is within the range of normal can be comforting.
C. Encourage the client to avoid discussing the events surrounding the sibling's death.
This option is not recommended. Encouraging the client to avoid discussing their feelings can hinder the healing process. Open communication about the loss can help the client process their emotions and find ways to cope.
D. Caution the client against feeling angry at the sibling.
This option is not appropriate. Allowing the client to express their feelings, including anger, is a healthy part of the grieving process. Suppressing emotions, including anger, can lead to complications in the grieving process. It is essential to acknowledge and validate all the client's emotions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "This medication is given to help with extrapyramidal side effects."
Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat the extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) caused by certain psychiatric drugs, particularly antipsychotics. EPS can include symptoms such as muscle stiffness, restlessness, tremors, and other movement disorders. Benztropine helps to alleviate these symptoms, making it an essential medication for individuals experiencing these side effects from antipsychotic medications.
B. "Benztropine helps alleviate your hallucinations."
This statement is incorrect. Benztropine is not primarily used to treat hallucinations; it is used for movement-related side effects as mentioned above.
C. "This medication is given to help with your depression."
This statement is incorrect. Benztropine is not indicated for the treatment of depression.
D. "Benztropine is used to counteract your tachycardia."
This statement is incorrect. Benztropine is not used to treat tachycardia (fast heart rate). It is specifically used for extrapyramidal side effects related to antipsychotic medications.
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