A 16-year-old client diagnosed with schizophrenia experiences command hallucinations to harm others. The clients parents ask a nurse. Where do the voices come from? Which is the appropriate nursing reply?
Your child has a chemical imbalance of the brain, which leads to altered thoughts
Your child's hallucinations are caused by medication interactions
your child has too little serotonin in the brain causing delusions and hallucinations
your child's abnormal hormonal changes have precipitated auditory hallucinations
The Correct Answer is A
A. Your child has a chemical imbalance of the brain, which leads to altered thoughts: This is the correct answer. It acknowledges the role of a chemical imbalance in the brain contributing to altered thoughts and hallucinations in the context of schizophrenia.
B. Your child's hallucinations are caused by medication interactions: This explanation is not likely in this context. While medications can have side effects, command hallucinations in schizophrenia are primarily related to the underlying disorder.
C. Your child has too little serotonin in the brain causing delusions and hallucinations: While serotonin is involved in mood regulation, attributing hallucinations solely to low serotonin levels oversimplifies the complex neurobiology of schizophrenia.
D. Your child's abnormal hormonal changes have precipitated auditory hallucinations: Hormonal changes are not considered a primary cause of auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia. The emphasis is on neurobiological and genetic factors influencing brain function.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome, treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medications: The symptoms described (uncontrollable tongue movements, stiff neck, difficulty swallowing) are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia than neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is characterized by hyperthermia, autonomic dysregulation, altered mental status, and generalized muscle rigidity. Treatment involves discontinuing antipsychotic medications and supportive care.
B. Agranulocytosis treated by administration of clozapine (Clozaril): Agranulocytosis is a rare but serious side effect of clozapine, not a treatment for the symptoms described. The symptoms presented are more consistent with tardive dyskinesia.
C. Tardive dyskinesia treated by discontinuing antipsychotic medication: This is the correct answer. Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary and abnormal movements, including tongue protrusion and facial grimacing. It can result from long-term use of antipsychotic medications, and discontinuing or reducing the dose of the antipsychotic is a primary intervention.
D. Headache treated by administration of Hydrochlorothiazide: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and edema, not headache or the symptoms described, which are more indicative of tardive dyskinesia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Teaching clients about their illness: This function is within the scope of practice for both registered nurses and advanced practice psychiatric nurses. Registered nurses often provide education to clients about their illnesses, medications, and overall care.
B. Maintaining safety on the milieu: Both registered nurses and advanced practice psychiatric nurses are responsible for maintaining safety on the milieu. This includes monitoring the environment, assessing potential risks, and intervening to ensure the safety of clients and staff.
C. Prescribing medications: This function is exclusive to advanced practice psychiatric nurses, such as psychiatric nurse practitioners. Registered nurses do not have the authority to prescribe medications. Advanced practice psychiatric nurses receive additional education and training that allows them to prescribe medications as part of their role.
D. Administering medications: Registered nurses, including those specializing in psychiatric nursing, are authorized to administer medications. This is a common nursing function and does not require advanced practice authorization.
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