A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?
Axons
Neurotransmitters
Dendrites
Synapses
The Correct Answer is B
A. Axons: Axons are nerve cell processes that transmit signals away from the cell body. While axons are essential for communication between nerve cells, their structure or function is not directly implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.
B. Neurotransmitters: This is the correct answer. In schizophrenia, there is evidence of dysregulation in neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine. Dopamine dysregulation is associated with both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. In the case of negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal and reduced emotional expression, hypoactivity in dopamine pathways may play a role.
C. Dendrites: Dendrites are nerve cell processes that receive signals from other neurons. Similar to axons, dendrites are crucial for communication between nerve cells, but their structure or function is not specifically implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.
D. Synapses: Synapses are the junctions between nerve cells where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals. While synapses play a critical role in neurotransmission, the altered behavior in schizophrenia is more closely linked to the dysregulation of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, than to structural changes in synapses.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired: While pacing can be a coping mechanism, leaving the client alone may not be the most therapeutic approach. It is important for the nurse to provide support and assess the client's emotional state.
B. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace: This is the correct answer. Walking with the client at a gradually slower pace allows the nurse to offer support and engage in therapeutic communication. It provides a calming presence and can assist the client in self-regulating their anxiety.
C. Have a staff member escort the client to her room: Escorting the client to her room might be perceived as restrictive or punitive. It is generally more beneficial to engage in supportive interventions and encourage coping strategies.
D. Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing: Giving direct orders to stop pacing may increase anxiety and may not be an effective approach. It is often better to engage in a supportive manner and explore ways to help the client manage their anxiety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Risperidone (Risperdal):
Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic and generally has a lower propensity for causing anticholinergic side effects compared to typical antipsychotics.
B. Lithium (Lithobid):
Lithium is a mood stabilizer used primarily for bipolar disorder and does not typically cause anticholinergic side effects.
C. Buspirone (Buspar):
Buspirone is an anxiolytic medication and does not have significant anticholinergic properties. It tends to have fewer side effects compared to other medications used for anxiety.
D. Fluphenazine (Prolixin):
Fluphenazine is a typical antipsychotic medication and belongs to the phenothiazine class, which is known to have notable anticholinergic effects. These effects can include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, urinary retention, and cognitive impairment.
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