Lisa is a 22-year-old woman who experiences episodes of extreme muscle rigidity. She sometimes repeats a word or phrase over and over. Attempts to move her are met with increased muscle resistance. What is she exhibiting?
Catatonia
Disorganized schizophrenia
Schizotypal disorder
Brief psychotic disorder
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Catatonia is characterized by symptoms such as extreme muscle rigidity, repetitive speech, and resistance to movement, which align with Lisa's presentation. It is often associated with other mental health conditions but can also be a standalone diagnosis.

Choice B reason: Disorganized schizophrenia is marked by disorganized thinking and behavior, inappropriate emotional responses, and erratic actions. While Lisa's symptoms could suggest a psychotic disorder, they do not specifically indicate disorganized schizophrenia.
Choice C reason: Schizotypal disorder involves eccentric behavior, odd beliefs, and difficulty forming close relationships. Lisa's symptoms do not align with the core characteristics of schizotypal disorder.
Choice D reason: Brief psychotic disorder is a short-term condition that includes delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech. Lisa's symptoms could be part of a brief psychotic episode, but the specific mention of muscle rigidity and resistance to movement is more indicative of catatonia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: While relaxation techniques are beneficial, providing structure is often the first step in helping clients with OCD manage their symptoms, as it can reduce anxiety and prevent time for obsessions and compulsions to occur.
Choice B reason: A structured schedule can help the client focus on tasks and activities, reducing the time available for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
Choice C reason: Identifying expectations is important, but it should come after establishing a structured routine that can support the client's participation in care.
Choice D reason: Discussing alternative coping strategies is a part of treatment, but initially providing a structured schedule can offer immediate relief and a sense of control for the client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using the incentive spirometer is important, but it is not specifically related to deep breathing and coughing exercises.
Choice B reason: Breathing deeply and coughing every 4 hours is part of postoperative care, but it does not indicate understanding of the technique to protect the incision.
Choice C reason: Splinting the incision with a pillow while coughing is a recommended technique to support the incision and reduce pain during coughing, indicating an understanding of the instructions.
Choice D reason: Lying flat is not recommended for deep breathing and coughing exercises as it can inhibit lung expansion and is not conducive to effective coughing.
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