A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and notices changes in the client’s behavior.
Which of the following behaviors is the nurse’s priority to report to the provider?
Meaningless phrases
Refusal to eat
Substance use
Decreased energy level
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Meaningless phrases are a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia and can indicate a worsening of the client's psychosis. This is a significant finding because it suggests that the client's ability to think clearly and communicate effectively is deteriorating.
Prompt reporting to the provider is crucial to ensure timely assessment and intervention, which may include medication adjustments or other therapeutic measures to address the worsening psychosis.
Early intervention is essential to prevent further decline in the client's mental state and to minimize the risk of harm to self or others.
I'll provide detailed rationales for the other choices, even though they are not the priority to report:
Choice B rationale:
Refusal to eat can be a symptom of schizophrenia, but it is not as immediate of a concern as meaningless phrases. It's important to monitor the client's nutritional intake and address any underlying causes of the refusal to eat, but this can typically be managed through nursing interventions without requiring immediate provider notification.
Choice C rationale:
Substance use can exacerbate schizophrenia symptoms and should be addressed, but it is not the priority to report in this scenario. The nurse should assess the client's substance use history and patterns, provide education and counseling on the risks of substance use, and collaborate with the provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses both the schizophrenia and the substance use.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased energy level can be a symptom of schizophrenia, but it is also a common symptom of many other conditions. It's important to assess the client's overall health and identify any potential causes of the decreased energy level, but it is not typically a priority to report to the provider unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Placing a client in restraints should be a last resort, as it can be traumatizing and can escalate agitation.
Restraints can also cause physical injury and psychological distress.
They should only be used when there is an immediate risk of harm to the client or others.
Choice B rationale:
Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that can be used to calm agitated clients.
However, it should not be the first-line intervention, as it can have significant side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and muscle stiffness.
It is important to assess the client's individual needs and risks before administering haloperidol.
Choice C rationale:
Asking a client to talk about their feelings can be helpful in some situations, but it is not appropriate when a client is agitated and yelling.
The client is likely to be too overwhelmed to engage in meaningful conversation.
It is important to first de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Choice D rationale:
Moving the client to a seclusion room with continuous observation is the most appropriate intervention in this situation.
This will provide the client with a safe and quiet space to calm down.
It will also allow staff to monitor the client closely and intervene if necessary.
Continuous observation is essential to ensure the client's safety and to prevent self-harm.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Insomnia is a common symptom of anxiety, but it is not typically seen in mild cases. It is more often associated with moderate to severe anxiety.
When anxiety is mild, individuals may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, but they are not typically unable to sleep at all.
Other sleep-related symptoms of mild anxiety may include restlessness, nightmares, or early morning awakening.
Choice B rationale:
Chest pain is a serious symptom that can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including anxiety. However, it is not a common manifestation of mild anxiety.
Chest pain associated with anxiety is typically described as a sharp, stabbing pain or a feeling of tightness in the chest. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, or sweating.
If a client with anxiety is experiencing chest pain, it is important to rule out other potential causes, such as heart disease or a pulmonary embolism.
Choice D rationale:
Incoherent speech is a sign of severe anxiety or a panic attack. It is not typically seen in mild anxiety.
When a person is experiencing incoherent speech, they may have difficulty speaking in complete sentences or making sense of their thoughts. They may also slur their words or speak in a rapid, disjointed manner.
Choice C rationale:
Irritability is a common manifestation of mild anxiety. It is often characterized by a feeling of being easily annoyed or angered.
Individuals with mild anxiety may also be more impatient, short-tempered, or argumentative than usual.
They may also have a lower tolerance for frustration and stress.
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