Brian is seeking treatment for PTSD following his tour of duty in a combat zone. He reports to the assessment nurse that he has been smoking marijuana and drinking alcohol daily for the past 4 days because he just can't stand feeling depressed all the time. Which of these assessments is the nurse's highest priority?
Suicide risk assessment
Neurological assessment
Amount of current cannabis use
Marital status
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Given Brian's recent substance use and expression of not being able to tolerate depressive feelings, a suicide risk assessment is the highest priority to ensure his immediate safety.
Choice B reason: While a neurological assessment may be relevant, it is not the highest priority when there is a potential risk of suicide.
Choice C reason: Assessing the amount of current cannabis use is important but secondary to evaluating the risk of suicide.
Choice D reason: Marital status may inform social support but is not the highest priority in the context of potential self-harm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Children's natural activity levels and spontaneity can mimic the hyperactivity of bipolar mania, making it challenging to differentiate between typical behavior and symptoms of a mood disorder.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect; bipolar disorder can be diagnosed before the age of 18. Early-onset bipolar disorder is recognized and can be diagnosed in children and adolescents.
Choice C reason: ADHD and bipolar disorder share common symptoms such as impulsivity and inattention, which can complicate the differential diagnosis, especially in younger populations.
Choice D reason: Neurotransmitter levels do indeed vary with age, which can affect mood and behavior, thereby complicating the diagnosis of bipolar disorder in young individuals.
Choice E reason: While genetic predisposition plays a role in bipolar disorder, it alone is not a definitive diagnostic determinant due to the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Acrophobia is the fear of heights, which is not indicated by the client's fear of being outdoors alone.
Choice B reason: Xenophobia is the fear of strangers or foreigners, which does not align with the client's described fear.
Choice C reason: Agoraphobia is the fear of open spaces or being in crowded, public places like markets. It also includes the fear of leaving a safe place, such as home, which aligns with the client's symptoms.

Choice D reason: Mysophobia is the fear of germs, which is not related to the fear of being outdoors alone.
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.
