A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy.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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Altered thought process related to hallucinations: While altered thought processes are common in manic episodes, hallucinations are not typically associated with mania in Bipolar I disorder. Hallucinations are more commonly seen in psychotic disorders.
B. Risk for violence related to poor impulse control and judgment: This is the correct priority diagnosis. During a manic episode, individuals may have impaired impulse control and poor judgment, increasing the risk of impulsive and potentially violent behaviors. Ensuring the safety of the client and others is the priority.
C. Altered thought process related to poor judgment: While altered thought processes and poor judgment are characteristic of mania, the specific concern in this scenario is the potential for violence. The risk for violence takes precedence as a priority nursing diagnosis.
D. Social isolation related to mania: Social isolation may be a concern, but the immediate priority is addressing the risk for violence, as it poses a more significant threat to the client and others during a manic episode.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Why do you think you are being lied about and poisoned?": This question may come across as confrontational or challenging, potentially increasing the client's anxiety or defensiveness. It's important to acknowledge the client's feelings rather than questioning their beliefs directly.
B. "You are mistaken. Nobody is lying about you or trying to poison you.": This statement is dismissive and may cause the client to feel invalidated. It is crucial to acknowledge the client's feelings and experiences, even if they are not based on reality.
C. "Who is lying about you and trying to poison you?": This question may unintentionally reinforce the delusional thinking by suggesting that someone is indeed lying or trying to poison the client. It's essential to avoid validating or encouraging the delusional content.
D. "You seem to be having very frightening thoughts.": This statement acknowledges the client's emotions without directly challenging the delusional content. It shows empathy and creates an open and non-confrontational environment, allowing the client to express their feelings and experiences.
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