A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?

Axons

Neurotransmitters

Dendrites

Synapses

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Axons: Axons are nerve cell processes that transmit signals away from the cell body. While axons are essential for communication between nerve cells, their structure or function is not directly implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.

B. Neurotransmitters: This is the correct answer. In schizophrenia, there is evidence of dysregulation in neurotransmitter systems, particularly dopamine. Dopamine dysregulation is associated with both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. In the case of negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal and reduced emotional expression, hypoactivity in dopamine pathways may play a role.

C. Dendrites: Dendrites are nerve cell processes that receive signals from other neurons. Similar to axons, dendrites are crucial for communication between nerve cells, but their structure or function is not specifically implicated in the altered behavior associated with schizophrenia.

D. Synapses: Synapses are the junctions between nerve cells where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals. While synapses play a critical role in neurotransmission, the altered behavior in schizophrenia is more closely linked to the dysregulation of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, than to structural changes in synapses.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "I understand that you are angry, but this behavior will not be tolerated": This response sets a clear boundary regarding unacceptable behavior while acknowledging the client's emotional state. It communicates to the client that their actions are not acceptable, but it does so in a firm yet empathetic manner. This statement also maintains professionalism and ensures a safe and respectful environment for both the client and the nurse.

B. "You are very disrespectful. You need to learn to control yourself": This statement is confrontational and may escalate the client's anger or resistance. It focuses on blaming the client rather than exploring potential modifications to improve the situation.

C. "What behaviors could you modify to improve this situation?":may not be as effective in this context because it places the responsibility solely on the client to modify their behavior without directly addressing the inappropriate actions exhibited. Additionally, individuals with antisocial personality disorder may have difficulty recognizing the impact of their behavior on others or may be resistant to changing their actions without external intervention or consequences.

D. "What anti-personality disorder medications have helped you in the past?": Antisocial personality disorder is not typically treated with specific medications, and individuals with this disorder may not seek or comply with medication interventions. Asking about medications may not be relevant or helpful in addressing the immediate behavioral issues.

A. Risk for suicide B. Risk for injury C. Powerlessness D. Risk for imbalance nutrition

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Priority. The patient is exhibiting severe depression, weight loss, and expressing hopelessness, which are all indicators of an increased risk for suicide. Assessing and addressing the risk for suicide is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient.

B. Incorrect. While the patient may be at risk for injury due to factors such as poor nutrition and potential self-harm, the immediate concern in this case is the risk for suicide, given the patient's severe depression and expressed hopelessness.

C. Incorrect. Powerlessness may be a relevant nursing diagnosis for individuals experiencing depression, but the immediate concern in this case is the risk for suicide. Addressing the patient's sense of powerlessness can be part of the broader care plan, but it's not the priority.

D. Incorrect. While the patient has experienced significant weight loss, the priority at this time is addressing the risk for suicide. Once the immediate safety concern is addressed, nutritional concerns can be addressed as part of the overall care plan.

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A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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