A nurse is caring for a client with panic disorder. Which statement accurately describes panic disorder?
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that causes intense fear and discomfort.
Panic disorder is a type of depression that leads to social isolation.
Panic disorder is a type of substance abuse that is influenced by biological factors.
Panic disorder is a physical health problem that can be diagnosed using the PDSS.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
This statement accurately describes panic disorder. It is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. These attacks can lead to significant distress and avoidance behaviors.
Choice B rationale:
Panic disorder is not a type of depression; it is a separate anxiety disorder. While there can be co-occurrence of depression and anxiety disorders, they have distinct diagnostic criteria and features.
Choice C rationale:
Panic disorder is not related to substance abuse, nor is it influenced by biological factors that contribute to substance use disorders. It is primarily a psychological condition related to anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
The PDSS (Panic Disorder Severity Scale) is a tool used to assess the severity of panic disorder symptoms, not to diagnose the disorder itself. A diagnosis of panic disorder is based on clinical criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Substance abuse can be a significant complication of panic disorder. Individuals might turn to drugs or alcohol in attempts to self-medicate or alleviate symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Hypertension isn't a primary complication of panic disorder. Panic attacks can lead to transient increases in blood pressure, but chronic hypertension isn't a well-documented outcome.
Choice C rationale:
Diabetes and panic disorder aren't directly linked. However, chronic stress and anxiety could potentially influence blood sugar levels in those predisposed to diabetes.
Choice D rationale:
Osteoporosis isn't a known complication of panic disorder. There's no physiological connection between panic attacks and bone health.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Palpitations, or a racing heart, are a common symptom of panic attacks. The body's "fight or flight" response during a panic attack can lead to rapid heart rate and sensations of palpitations.
Choice B rationale:
Numbness and tingling sensations, often referred to as paresthesias, can occur during a panic attack. These sensations are a result of the body's physiological response to stress, leading to altered sensory perceptions.
Choice D rationale:
Fear of losing control is a characteristic symptom of panic attacks. Individuals with panic disorder often describe feeling as though they are losing control over their thoughts, emotions, or even their physical actions during an attack.
Choice E rationale:
Muscle weakness can be experienced during a panic attack due to the release of stress hormones and the physiological changes that accompany the fight-or-flight response. This weakness can affect various muscle groups.
Choice C rationale:
Increased appetite is not typically associated with panic attacks. Panic attacks are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or stomach discomfort rather than an increased appetite.
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