A nurse is responding to a parent of an adolescent who was recently diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder following a sexual assault.The parent mentions that their child has been experimenting with drugs. Why would they be doing this?
“This must be a difficult time for you.”.
“This is normal behavior for an adolescent. Nothing to be concerned about.”.
“I can understand your concerns. Which of these behaviors do you want to address first?”
“It’s very frustrating when children misbehave. Do any of your other children react the same way? What rules have you established for them?”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The adolescent’s experimentation with drugs could be a coping mechanism to deal with the trauma of the sexual assault and the subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Substance use, including drug use, is often a maladaptive coping strategy used by individuals
who have experienced trauma to numb their feelings, escape from their reality, or attempt to regain control. This must indeed be a difficult time for both the adolescent and the parent.
Choice B rationale
While experimentation is a part of normal adolescent behavior, it is not normal or healthy for an adolescent to use drugs, especially in response to a traumatic event such as a sexual assault. Drug use can lead to addiction, health problems, and further psychological distress. Therefore, it is something to be concerned about and addressed appropriately.
Choice C rationale
While it is important to understand and address the parent’s concerns, the focus should be on the adolescent’s needs. The adolescent is dealing with the aftermath of a sexual assault and a diagnosis of PTSD, and is using drugs. These are serious issues that need to be addressed with professional help. The question of which behavior to address first should be determined based on the adolescent’s immediate safety and well-being.
Choice D rationale
It is not helpful to label the adolescent’s behavior as misbehavior or to compare them to their siblings. Each child is unique and may react differently to stress and trauma. Instead of focusing on rules and comparisons, it would be more beneficial to provide support, understanding, and appropriate professional help.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Recommending the client obtain a part-time job may not be the most effective intervention for an adolescent experiencing depression due to a recent move. While employment can provide a sense of purpose and routine, it may also add additional stress and responsibilities that could potentially exacerbate the client’s depression.
Choice B rationale
Scheduling an appointment with a school-based counselor is the most appropriate intervention. School-based counselors are trained to provide emotional support and therapeutic interventions to students dealing with various issues, including depression. They can provide a safe space for the client to express their feelings and can help them develop coping strategies to manage their depression.
Choice C rationale
Arranging a visit with a neurologist is not the most appropriate first intervention. While neurologists can provide treatment for neurological conditions, they are not typically the first point of contact for managing depression.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging the client to engage in more physical activity can be beneficial as exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on mood. However, it may not be sufficient as the sole intervention for an adolescent experiencing depression
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuit (CSTC) of the brain is associated with feelings of fear. Anxiety disorders are characterized by an overactivation of this circuit, leading to excessive fear responses14.
Choice B rationale
The amygdala-centered (ACC) circuit of the brain is not typically associated with feelings of apprehension. The ACC is more commonly associated with processing emotions and fear learning14.
Choice C rationale
The cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuit (CSTC) of the brain is not specifically associated with phobias. While this circuit plays a role in fear responses, it is not specific to phobic responses14.
Choice D rationale
The amygdala-centered (ACC) circuit of the brain is associated with feelings of panic. However, it is not the only brain circuit involved in anxiety. Other circuits, including the CSTC, also play important roles14.
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.