A nurse is conducting a group therapy session for several clients. The group is laughing at a joke one of the clients told, when a client who is schizophrenic jumps up and runs out of the room yelling. "You are all making fun of me!" The nurse should identify this behavior as which of the following characteristics of schizophrenia?
Looseness of association
ideas of reference
Magical thinking
Delusions of grandeur
The Correct Answer is B
A. Looseness of association: Looseness of association refers to a thought disorder characterized by disorganized thinking and lack of logical connections between thoughts. It typically presents as disjointed or fragmented speech patterns, rather than misinterpreting social cues or actions of others.
B. Ideas of reference: Ideas of reference are a characteristic feature of schizophrenia involving the belief that external events, objects, or actions have special significance specifically directed at oneself. In this scenario, the client's belief that others laughing at a joke is directed towards them is an example of ideas of reference.
C. Magical thinking: Magical thinking involves the belief that one's thoughts, actions, or words can influence external events or outcomes. It is often associated with superstitions and rituals. While magical thinking can occur in schizophrenia, it is not specifically demonstrated in this scenario.
D. Delusions of grandeur: Delusions of grandeur involve false beliefs of one's own importance, power, or identity. While delusions of grandeur are a symptom of schizophrenia, they are not evident in this scenario, as the client's reaction is more related to misinterpretation of social cues rather than an exaggerated sense of self-importance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Who is lying about you and trying to poison you?": This response may come across as confrontational and may not effectively address the client's underlying fear or paranoia. It could potentially escalate the client's anxiety or reinforce their delusions by implying that the nurse believes the accusations are valid.
B. "You seem to be having very frightening thoughts.": This response acknowledges the client's experience without directly challenging or validating the content of their delusions. It conveys empathy and concern while also opening the door for further exploration of the client's feelings and experiences. By acknowledging the frightening nature of the client's thoughts, the nurse demonstrates understanding and provides an opportunity for therapeutic dialogue.
C. "You are mistaken. Nobody is lying about you or trying to poison you.": This response denies the client's reality and contradicts their experience, which can be invalidating and may cause the client to feel misunderstood or dismissed. It's important to avoid outright denial of the client's beliefs, as it can damage the therapeutic relationship and hinder effective communication.
D. "Why do you think you are being lied about and poisoned?": While this response seeks to explore the client's thoughts and feelings, it may be perceived as challenging or confrontational. It could unintentionally reinforce the client's delusions by inviting them to elaborate on their paranoid beliefs without first acknowledging the distress they are experiencing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will feed my baby on a schedule every 4 hours": Feeding an infant with heart failure on a strict schedule may not be appropriate because it may not allow the infant to consume adequate calories and nutrients when needed. Infants with heart failure may tire easily during feeding, so they may require more frequent, smaller feedings to ensure adequate intake.
B. "I will add Polycose to each of my baby's bottles": Polycose is a carbohydrate supplement sometimes used to increase the calorie content of infant formula or breast milk. However, adding it to every bottle without guidance from a healthcare provider may not be necessary or appropriate. The decision to use Polycose should be based on the infant's specific nutritional needs and should be directed by the healthcare team.
C. "I will allow my baby to take as much time as needed to finish the bottle": This statement indicates an understanding that infants with heart failure may have difficulty feeding due to fatigue or respiratory distress. Allowing the baby to take as much time as needed to finish the bottle ensures that they can consume an adequate amount of milk without becoming exhausted.
D. "I will limit my baby's crying to 15 minutes prior to each feeding": Limiting the baby's crying before feeding is not directly related to meeting the infant's nutritional needs. While minimizing stress and agitation before feeding can be beneficial, setting a specific time limit on crying may not always be practical or effective.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.