Which is necessary as a defining feature of mental illness?
The individual must need medications for the diagnosis to be of psychiatric origin.
The individual must acknowledge that he or she is having difficulties in functioning.
The individual must have difficulties in functioning that cause distress and/or impairment of some type.
The individual must have physiological symptoms that match with behaviors that are impaired.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Medication is not a defining feature of all mental illnesses. While medications can be a part of treatment for many psychiatric conditions, not all mental illnesses require medication. Some may be managed with psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or other non-pharmacological interventions.
Choice B reason: Self-awareness or acknowledgment of difficulties is not a prerequisite for a mental illness diagnosis. Many individuals may not realize they have a mental health condition, especially in cases of severe mental illness or when insight is affected.
Choice C reason: The presence of difficulties in functioning that cause significant distress or impairment is a core aspect of mental illness. These difficulties can manifest in various areas such as social, work, or family activities, and are a key factor in diagnosing mental health conditions.
Choice D reason: While physiological symptoms can accompany certain mental health conditions, they are not a defining feature of all mental illnesses. Mental illness primarily involves significant changes in thinking, emotion, and/or behavior.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect as prescribing medications is not within the scope of practice for a basic- level psychiatric-mental health nurse.
Choice B reason: Conducting family therapy typically requires advanced training and is not usually within the scope of a basic-level nurse.
Choice C reason: Interpreting laboratory tests is generally not within the scope of a basic-level psychiatric-mental health nurse.
Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. Promoting symptom management is an appropriate intervention for a psychiatric-mental health nurse at the basic level of practice.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect. While anxiety can be a normal response to stress, the context implies that the client is experiencing more than a typical reaction.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect. Anxiety is not necessarily an abnormal response; it can occur in normal situations but becomes problematic when excessive.
Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect. While anxiety does have physiological components, the question seems to be asking about the experiential nature of anxiety.
Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. Anxiety is indeed a sense of psychological distress that can be triggered by stress but is characterized by excessive worry, fear, or apprehension.
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