A 42-year-old man presents to the PMHNP for a follow-up appointment to re-evaluate his symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. He says, "I have been getting weekly massages and they have helped so much! Why are massages so relaxing?" What is the appropriate response?
"Massages are believed to affect anxiety and tension by increasing lymph flow and blood circulation, thus improving muscle tone and relaxation of the mind."
"Massages are believed to reduce anxiety because they increase the activity of endorphins by manipulating points of energy flow in the body."
"Massage alleviates tension by cleaning crystalline deposits under the skin that may interfere with the natural flow of the body’s energy."
"Massage produces physiologic effects such as decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; decreased anxiety; and increased alpha brain waves."
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While increased circulation is a proposed benefit of massage, the mechanism of anxiety reduction is more complex and involves nervous system modulation, not solely lymph flow or muscle tone.
Choice B reason: The idea of manipulating points of energy flow is not supported by scientific evidence; endorphin release may occur, but this description is oversimplified and partly inaccurate.
Choice C reason: The statement about crystalline deposits and energy flow is pseudoscientific and does not reflect physiologic mechanisms.
Choice D reason: Massage therapy has demonstrated physiologic effects including reductions in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Studies also show increased alpha brain wave activity, indicating relaxation, and decreased perceived anxiety. These responses reflect modulation of the autonomic nervous system and central nervous system, explaining the observed relaxation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The Children’s Behavior Checklist (CBCL) assesses a broad range of emotional and behavioral problems but is less specific for diagnosing ADHD, ODD, or conduct disorder.
Choice B reason: The Child Behavior Rating Scale primarily evaluates classroom behaviors and may not capture home behaviors or provide diagnostic clarity across multiple disorders.
Choice C reason: The Conners-Wells’ Adolescent Self-Report Scale is designed for adolescents and relies on self-report, making it less appropriate for a 7-year-old child.
Choice D reason: This is correct. The Conners 3-Parent Assessment Report is a validated parent-report tool designed to evaluate ADHD, ODD, and conduct disorder in children and is appropriate for use in a 7-year-old.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Autism spectrum disorder involves social communication deficits and restricted interests, but this boy’s primary challenges include generalized intellectual impairment, making autism less accurate.
Choice B reason: Global developmental delay is a diagnosis for children under 5; at age 10, intellectual disability is more appropriate.
Choice C reason: Intellectual disability is characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period, matching this child’s academic, social, and self-care impairments.
Choice D reason: Childhood-onset neurocognitive disorder refers to acquired cognitive decline, not lifelong developmental deficits evident since early childhood.
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.