A nurse is caring for a client who witnessed her brother's homicide and has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
The client talks constantly about the traumatic experience.
The client is constantly drowsy and sleeps 11-12 hr daily.
The client reports satisfying personal relationships with family and close friends.
The client is easily startled by loud voices.
The Correct Answer is D
The client is easily startled by loud voices. Clients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may exhibit hyperarousal symptoms, including exaggerated startle responses and hypervigilance. The client talking constantly about the traumatic experience is a possible finding in PTSD but not specific. The client is constantly drowsy and sleeping 11-12 hours daily is more associated with depression than PTSD. While the client may have satisfying personal relationships, it does not address the question of what finding to expect with PTSD, making choice C incorrect.
Reasons why the other choices are not answers:
Choice A, the client talking constantly about the traumatic experience, is a possible symptom of PTSD, but it is not specific to the disorder and may also indicate other disorders.
Choice B, the client being constantly drowsy and sleeping 11-12 hours daily, is more indicative of depression than PTSD and also does not address the question of finding expected with PTSD.
Choice C, the client reports satisfying personal relationships with family and close friends, does not address what finding is expected with PTSD, making it an incorrect answer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Constipation. Constipation is a common symptom of anorexia nervosa, as it can result from severe food restriction, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or laxative abuse. People with anorexia may also experience abdominal pain and bloating due to constipation.
Choice A. Hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood. It is not a typical symptom of anorexia, as people with anorexia tend to have low potassium levels due to vomiting, diuretic use, or inadequate intake.
Hyperkalemia can cause irregular heart rhythms, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
Choice B. Tachycardia. Tachycardia is a condition of fast heart rate. It is not a common symptom of anorexia, as people with anorexia tend to have bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate. Bradycardia can result from starvation, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance and can lead to cardiac arrest. Tachycardia can occur in some cases of anorexia due to dehydration, anxiety or refeeding syndrome.
Choice D. Metrorrhagia. Metrorrhagia is a condition of irregular or excessive bleeding between menstrual periods. It is not a usual symptom of anorexia, as people with anorexia tend to have amenorrhea, which is the absence of
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should acknowledge and validate the client's feelings by saying, "It's okay to feel afraid. Let's talk about what you are afraid of." This response demonstrates empathy and encourages the client to express their concerns and feelings.
Choice B, "Your doctor is a great surgeon. You will be fine," dismisses the client's feelings and may increase their anxiety.
Choice C, "Don't worry. The important thing is you have now quit smoking," minimizes the seriousness of the procedure and the client's potential risks.
Choice D, "I understand your fears. I was a smoker also," shifts the focus from the client to the nurse and is not an effective way to provide emotional support for the client.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today