A 5-year-old boy dreams that he is riding in a car that starts flying, then turns into a monster. At the end of the dream, he dies. The boy tells his mom, "I became a ghost like Grandpa." Which of the following would be an appropriate statement by the NP to the mother?
"We should get him evaluated to make sure he is not having anxiety related to the death of his grandfather."
"At this age, dreams about death are normal, especially since his grandfather recently died."
"He could be showing early signs of schizophrenia."
"Is there a history of mental illness in your family?"
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: While monitoring for anxiety is important, a single dream in a child of this age is generally developmentally appropriate and not indicative of psychopathology. Immediate evaluation is not required.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Children around age 5 often incorporate recent events, especially deaths, into their dreams as they attempt to process and understand concepts of mortality. This is a normal developmental response.
Choice C reason: Early signs of schizophrenia are rare at age 5, and this child’s behavior is not consistent with early psychotic symptoms.
Choice D reason: Family psychiatric history may provide context but is not relevant for interpreting a typical childhood dream about death.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dose-dependent hyperhidrosis is a known adverse effect of SSRIs, including paroxetine. This symptom often occurs when the medication dose is increased, reflecting the serotonergic stimulation of the hypothalamic thermoregulatory centers. Therefore, this statement is correct.
Choice B reason: SSRIs may be less effective in women over 50 due to age-related hormonal changes, particularly reduced estrogen, which can affect serotonergic pathways and the pharmacodynamics of antidepressants. This statement aligns with clinical observations and is correct.
Choice C reason: There is no strong evidence that switching from paroxetine to escitalopram reliably reduces hyperhidrosis. While individual tolerability may differ, recommending a switch solely to mitigate dose-dependent hyperhidrosis is not considered a standard or evidence-based approach. This statement is incorrect in the context of the scenario.
Choice D reason: Reducing the dose of paroxetine to the previous effective level and using short-term adjunctive strategies for acute anxiety is an appropriate management plan. Additionally, evaluating hormone levels can provide insight into menopausal or endocrine contributions to symptoms. This approach is evidence-based and correct.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bedwetting at this age, particularly triggered by stress such as a new sibling, is not abnormal in frequency and timing, but labeling it simply as "normal behavior" overlooks the clinical terminology and potential interventions.
Choice B reason: This is correct. Nocturnal enuresis is the medical term for involuntary urination during sleep in children aged 5 or older. Stressors such as new family dynamics can precipitate episodes. Reassurance and behavioral interventions are typically appropriate.
Choice C reason: Diabetes mellitus may cause polyuria, but in a child with isolated bedwetting without other symptoms (excessive thirst, weight loss, polyphagia), this is unlikely.
Choice D reason: Neurogenic bladder is associated with neurological conditions affecting bladder control, often presenting with daytime incontinence or other neurologic deficits, which are absent here.
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