A nurse is caring for a client who was involved in heavy combat and observed war casualties. The nurse should suspect that the client is suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if the client makes which of the following statements?
"My child was born with a birth defect due to an exposure I had overseas."
I check any room I enter because the enemy is still after me and could be hiding anywhere."
"In my dreams, all I can see are the wounded reaching out and trying to grab me."
"I killed four enemy soldiers with my bare hands and saved my entire battalion."
The Correct Answer is C
A) "My child was born with a birth defect due to an exposure I had overseas."
This statement does not directly relate to the core symptoms of PTSD. While exposure to trauma can have a variety of consequences, including potential exposure-related health issues, this statement does not necessarily indicate the re-experiencing, avoidance, or hyperarousal symptoms characteristic of PTSD.
B) "I check any room I enter because the enemy is still after me and could be hiding anywhere."
This statement is more indicative of hyperarousal and hypervigilance, which are common symptoms of PTSD. However, it does not explicitly involve re-experiencing the traumatic event through nightmares or intrusive memories, as described in the correct answer.
C) "In my dreams, all I can see are the wounded reaching out and trying to grab me."
Explanation:
The statement "In my dreams, all I can see are the wounded reaching out and trying to grab me" indicates symptoms commonly associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This statement reflects the re-experiencing symptom cluster of PTSD, where individuals may have distressing and intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks related to the traumatic event they experienced. The imagery of wounded individuals trying to grab the person suggests a strong emotional impact and ongoing distress related to the traumatic experience.
D) "I killed four enemy soldiers with my bare hands and saved my entire battalion."
While this statement might reflect exposure to a traumatic event and could contribute to symptoms of PTSD, it is presented in a way that seems more like a narrative of heroic actions rather than a symptom of distress or re-experiencing.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client will implement alternative strategies for managing anxiety.
While addressing anxiety is important for the overall well-being of the client, it may not be the highest priority in this context. The immediate physical safety of the client during alcohol withdrawal takes precedence over addressing anxiety.
B. The client will acknowledge alcohol dependence and need for treatment.
Recognizing alcohol dependence and the need for treatment is an important step, but it may not be the highest priority. It is more focused on the client's acceptance and understanding of their situation rather than addressing immediate health risks.
C. The client's withdrawal from alcohol will be managed without complications.
This is the correct answer. Managing alcohol withdrawal without complications is the highest priority goal in this scenario. Alcohol withdrawal can lead to severe physical symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening. Ensuring the safe and medically supervised management of withdrawal is crucial for the client's immediate well-being.
D. The client will rebuild damaged interpersonal relationships.
While repairing damaged relationships is important for the client's overall rehabilitation, it's not the highest priority in this context. Physical health and safety take precedence over addressing interpersonal issues.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has begun playing basketball with several other clients during the past month.
Engaging in activities and social interactions can actually be a positive sign, as it suggests involvement and connection with others, which can be protective against suicide.
B. The client identifies with problems expressed by other clients.
Identifying with others' problems may indicate empathy, but it is not necessarily indicative of suicide risk on its own.
C. The client's behavior has become impulsive in the past few weeks.
Explanation: Impulsivity can be a significant risk factor for suicide. A sudden increase in impulsive behavior might indicate that the client is not thinking clearly and is acting without considering the potential consequences. Impulsivity can lead to actions that are harmful or dangerous, including suicidal behaviors.
D. The client states she wants to go home to be with her children and partner.
Expressing a desire to be with loved ones is generally not an indicator of suicide risk. In fact, having a strong support system can be protective against suicidal thoughts.
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.
