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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While voice tremors can be a symptom of anxiety, they are not specifically associated with panic level anxiety. Voice tremors could be due to a variety of factors, including nervousness, fear, or certain medical conditions.
Choice B rationale
Shakiness can be a symptom of anxiety, but it is not specific to panic level anxiety. It could be a physical response to fear, stress, or even low blood sugar.
Choice C rationale
Depersonalization, a feeling of being detached or disconnected from oneself, is a common symptom of panic level anxiety. Individuals may feel as if they are observing themselves from an outside perspective.
Choice D rationale
Poor concentration can be a symptom of many mental health conditions, including anxiety. However, it is not specific to panic level anxiety and can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, or certain medications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Paroxetine is a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of PTSD6. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, in the brain.
Choice B rationale
Semaglutide is a medication used to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It is not typically used in the treatment of PTSD.
Choice C rationale
Tramadol is a prescription pain medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. While it can help manage physical symptoms that may accompany PTSD, it is not typically used as a primary treatment for the disorder.
Choice D rationale
Zaleplon is a medication used to treat insomnia. While it can help manage sleep disturbances that may accompany PTSD, it is not typically used as a primary treatment for the disorder.
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