A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). He states, "I don't care what the doctors say, there is no way I can have HIV, and I don't need treatment for something I don't have." The nurse identifies that the client is experiencing which of the following types of crisis?

Maturational.

Adventitious.

Internal.

Situational.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Answer is d. Situational.

a. Maturational crisis: This type of crisis occurs in response to life transitions or developmental stages, such as marriage, parenthood, retirement, or aging. It involves challenges related to adjusting to new roles, responsibilities, or expectations. However, the client's denial of a new HIV diagnosis and refusal of treatment do not align with the characteristics of a maturational crisis, as it pertains to planned life events rather than unexpected health crises.

b. Adventitious crisis: Adventitious crises are caused by events that are unplanned, unexpected, and often traumatic, such as natural disasters, accidents, or crimes. These crises can affect individuals, families, or communities and may result in significant psychological distress and disruption. However, the client's denial of an HIV diagnosis does not fit the criteria for an adventitious crisis, as it is a personal health issue rather than an external event affecting a broader population.

c. Internal crisis: While internal struggles and conflicts can contribute to a person's overall crisis experience, "internal crisis" is not a recognized category within the context of nursing crises. Internal factors such as psychological distress, unresolved trauma, or maladaptive coping mechanisms may exacerbate crisis situations, but they are typically addressed within the framework of other crisis categories such as situational, maturational, or existential crises.

d. Situational crisis: Correct. A situational crisis arises from an external event or situation that the individual finds overwhelming, threatening, or challenging to cope with. In this scenario, the client's denial of their HIV diagnosis and refusal of treatment represent a situational crisis as it stems from the unexpected news of their health condition. The client's perception of the diagnosis as threatening or inconceivable leads to emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms, which can hinder their ability to accept and manage their medical condition effectively.

In summary, the correct answer is d because the client's denial of their HIV diagnosis and refusal of treatment align with the characteristics of a situational crisis, which arises from an external event that the individual perceives as overwhelming or threatening. Understanding the nature of the crisis can guide the nurse in providing appropriate support, education, and intervention to help the client navigate through this challenging time and make informed decisions regarding their healthcare.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

"This is supposed to happen when you get old, right?" is a common misconception but doesn't necessarily support the diagnosis of delirium. It could be attributed to normal aging changes.

Choice B rationale:

"Since his mother died, he has not been feeling well." indicates a potential stressor but doesn't directly address the rapid onset of behavioral changes, which is a hallmark of delirium.

Choice C rationale:

"My husband just didn't seem to know what he was doing. He has been forgetful for years." suggests a history of forgetfulness rather than an acute change in behavior, which is more indicative of chronic cognitive issues like dementia.

Choice D rationale:

(Correct) "The changes in his behavior came on so quickly! I wasn't sure what was happening." This statement supports the diagnosis of delirium, which is characterized by a sudden onset of confusion and changes in cognitive function. Delirium often develops rapidly, and the client's wife's observation aligns with this diagnostic criterion.

A. "You need to tell the voices to leave you alone.” B. "You need to understand that there are no voices.” C. "What are the voices telling you to do?” D. "Why do you think you are hearing the voices?”

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to tell the voices to leave them alone oversimplifies the situation. It disregards the distress and lack of control that individuals with schizophrenia often experience when hearing voices. This response may also imply that the client has complete control over the voices, which is not accurate.

Choice B rationale:

Denying the existence of the voices contradicts the client's experience and could lead to further distrust between the client and nurse. Acknowledging the client's feelings and experiences is essential for building rapport and understanding in a therapeutic relationship.

Choice C rationale:

This response is appropriate because it acknowledges the client's experience and seeks to understand the content and nature of the voices. It demonstrates empathy and encourages open communication, which is crucial in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the client why they think they are hearing the voices might be interpreted as confrontational or judgmental. It could make the client defensive and hinder open communication. Instead, focusing on the content of the voices allows the nurse to gain insight into the client's experiences without placing blame.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A male client is admitted to the unit with a possible diagnosis of delirium. Which statement by the client's wife best supports the diagnosis?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is talking with a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Suddenly the client states, "I'm frightened. Do you hear that? The voices are telling me to do terrible things." Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

According to Bowen's theoretical approach to therapy, which of the following should the nurse recognize as a concept of a functional family interaction pattern?

A nurse is collecting a health history on a client who has a diagnosis of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. The nurse recognizes that which of the following is an expected history associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a new diagnosis of schizophrenia. The client's parents are tearful and express feelings of guilt. Which of the following is an appropriate statement by the nurse?

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with schizophrenia and is experiencing hallucinations. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A nurse is assessing a client who is sharing information regarding concerns about their marriage. The client states "My spouse and I argue most times." Which of the following statements by the nurse requires intervention by the charge nurse?

The community health nurse recognizes that which of the following mental health issues is most prevalent in the homeless population?

A client has made the decision to leave her alcoholic husband and reports feeling very depressed. Which of the following is a non-therapeutic statement by the nurse that demonstrates sympathy?

A nurse in the acute mental health unit is admitting a new client with an eating disorder. The nurse is aware that which of the following are considered comorbidities of eating disorders? (Select all that apply.)