A nurse overhears a client diagnosed with schizophrenia talking to herself. The client keeps stating, "The flakalas are here. The flakalas are here." The nurse should recognize the client's use of the word "flakala" as an example of which of the following alterations in speech?
Associative looseness
Tangentiality
Neologism
Circumstantiality
Choice C reason:
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Associative looseness refers to a disorganized thought process where connections between ideas are unclear or illogical. The use of the word "flakala" does not demonstrate a loose association between ideas but rather the creation of a new word.
Choice B reason:
Tangentiality occurs when a person goes off on a tangent and does not return to the original topic. In this case, the client is not going off on a tangent but is repeatedly using a made-up word, which is indicative of neologism.
Choice C reason:
Neologism is the creation of new words that others may not understand. The client's use of "flakala" fits this definition, as it appears to be a word created by the client that is not part of standard language¹. This can be a sign of disorganized thinking, where the client's internal thoughts do not align with conventional language patterns.
Choice D reason:
Circumstantiality involves providing unnecessary detail that makes communication less efficient but eventually returns to the original point. The client's statement does not include unnecessary details; it is the repetition of a newly created word, suggesting neologism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Blunted affect refers to a significant reduction in the intensity of emotional expression. In the context of schizophrenia, a person with blunted affect may show less facial expression, have diminished expressive gestures, and a monotone voice. This symptom reflects a decrease in the expression of emotions, which is characteristic of the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
Choice B Reason:
Delusions are a type of positive symptom of schizophrenia, not a negative one. They are false beliefs that are not based in reality, such as thinking one has superpowers or is being persecuted. Delusions represent an excess or distortion of normal functions.
Choice C Reason:
Poor judgment is not typically classified as a negative symptom of schizophrenia. It can be a consequence of cognitive impairments or positive symptoms like delusions but is not a negative symptom itself.
Choice D Reason:
Anhedonia is the inability to feel pleasure and is a core negative symptom of schizophrenia. Individuals with anhedonia may not enjoy activities that they used to find pleasurable, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
Choice E Reason:
Hallucinations, like delusions, are considered positive symptoms of schizophrenia. They involve experiencing sensations that are not present, such as hearing voices or seeing things that others do not see.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Waiting for the client to initiate interaction may result in missed opportunities to build trust and rapport. Clients who are suspicious may never feel comfortable enough to initiate interaction, which could hinder their care and treatment.
Choice B reason:
Adopting a neutral attitude when providing care is recommended for clients who are suspicious. It helps to establish a non-threatening environment and conveys a sense of respect for the client's need for space and boundaries.
Choice C reason:
Disclosing personal information to demonstrate approachability can backfire with clients who are suspicious. It may be perceived as intrusive or as an attempt to elicit personal information from them in return.
Choice D reason:
Approaching the client frequently throughout the day for brief interactions might overwhelm and increase the client's suspicion. It's important to respect the client's space and allow them to set the pace for interactions.
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