A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia has been stable for a year; however, the family now reports the patient is tense, sleeps 3 to 4 hours per night, and has difficulty concentrating. The patient says. "My computer is sending out infected radiation beams." The nurse can correctly assess this information as an Indication of
chronic deterioration.
medication nonadherence.
the need for psychoeducation.
relapse.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Chronic deterioration refers to a gradual, long-term decline in functioning, not the sudden emergence of new or worsening psychotic symptoms.
B. While relapse can sometimes be related to nonadherence, there is no direct evidence here that the patient has stopped taking medication, so this cannot be assumed.
C. Psychoeducation may be helpful, but the immediate concern is the reemergence of psychotic symptoms, not just a lack of understanding about the illness.
D. The patient is displaying insomnia, tension, difficulty concentrating, and paranoid delusions, which are early warning signs of a psychotic relapse in schizophrenia. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent full exacerbation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While self-awareness is beneficial, the primary reason for monitoring personal feelings is to prevent bias and maintain objectivity, not only to enhance advocacy.
B. Sympathy may be natural, but unchecked positive feelings do not replace professional assessment or judgment.
C. Nurses who experience anger, frustration, or judgment toward the family or situation may misinterpret information, make biased decisions, or fail to provide appropriate support. Awareness of personal feelings helps maintain objective and effective care.
D. Strong positive feelings can still lead to boundary issues or inappropriate transference, which is not the intended goal of professional self-awareness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Regression is reverting to earlier developmental behaviors (e.g., thumb-sucking under stress). The patient is not showing childlike behaviors.
B. Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others. The patient is not blaming others for symptoms.
C. Denial is refusing to acknowledge a painful reality. Despite clear symptoms and diagnostic testing, the patient minimizes illness by attributing it to "just a stubborn chest cold."
D. Displacement is redirecting emotions onto a safer target (e.g., yelling at spouse instead of boss). Not evident here.
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