A school nurse is talking with a 13-year-old female at her annual health-screening visit. Which of the following comments made by the adolescent should be the nurse's priority to address?
I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs."
There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it
"None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either."
"My parents treat me like a baby sometimes."
The Correct Answer is C
A) "I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs."
While the concern about not having gotten her period yet is a valid one, it's a common experience during adolescence. Variability in the timing of puberty is normal, and addressing this concern might involve providing reassurance and education about the natural range of development.
B) "There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it."
While concerns about physical appearance are common during adolescence, they are less urgent in terms of emotional and psychological well-being. Addressing body image issues is important, but the statement about lack of social acceptance and reciprocal liking indicates potentially deeper emotional challenges.
C) "None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either."
Explanation:
Adolescence is a time of significant emotional and social development. The statement about not being liked by other students and not liking them in return indicates potential social isolation and difficulties in forming positive relationships. Adolescents often seek social acceptance and peer relationships are crucial for their well-being and development.
D) "My parents treat me like a baby sometimes."
This statement suggests a common parent-adolescent dynamic where there might be conflicts about independence and autonomy. While these feelings are valid, they don't necessarily reflect a higher priority concern related to social isolation and peer relationships.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Identify the client's nutritional status.
Explanation:
Given the significant weight loss and the client's distorted belief about her body image (believing she is fat despite losing weight), it is crucial to assess the client's nutritional status first. Rapid weight loss and distorted body image are characteristic features of an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa. The nurse needs to determine the extent of malnutrition and potential medical complications related to inadequate nutrition. This assessment will guide the subsequent interventions.
Why the other choices are incorrect:
B. Provide a structured environment for the client.
While providing a structured environment can be important in managing eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, it is not the first priority. Understanding the client's nutritional status and medical condition takes precedence.
C. Plan a therapeutic diet for the client.
Planning a therapeutic diet may be part of the client's care plan, but without understanding the underlying nutritional status and potential eating disorder, creating a diet plan may not be effective or appropriate.
D. Request a mental health consult.
While a mental health consult is important for addressing the client's distorted body image and potential eating disorder, it should follow the assessment of nutritional status. The nutritional assessment provides critical information for both medical and psychological interventions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Plan the client's schedule to allow time for rituals.
Explanation:
For individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), engaging in rituals or repetitive behaviors can be a way to manage anxiety. Allowing time for these rituals within the client's schedule, while gently working towards reducing their impact, is a part of a gradual therapeutic approach known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP aims to help the client gradually face their anxiety triggers while refraining from engaging in compulsions.
Why the other choices are incorrect:
B. Confront the client about the senseless nature of the repetitive behaviors.
Confrontation can increase the client's anxiety and resistance to treatment. Instead, the nurse should approach the client with understanding and gradually work on strategies to reduce the compulsive behaviors.
C. Isolate the client for a period of time.
Isolating the client is not a therapeutic approach for managing OCD. It can lead to increased distress and negatively impact their mental health. Inclusion and support are more effective strategies.
D. Set strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules.
Setting strict limits may escalate the client's anxiety and could be counterproductive. It's important to work collaboratively with the client and apply evidence-based approaches like ERP to manage their symptoms effectively.
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