Lisa is a 22-year-old woman who experiences episodes of extreme muscle rigidity. She sometimes repeats a word or phrase over and over. Attempts to move her are met with increased muscle resistance. What is she exhibiting?
Catatonia
Disorganized schizophrenia
Schizotypal disorder
Brief psychotic disorder
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Catatonia is characterized by symptoms such as extreme muscle rigidity, repetitive speech, and resistance to movement, which align with Lisa's presentation. It is often associated with other mental health conditions but can also be a standalone diagnosis.

Choice B reason: Disorganized schizophrenia is marked by disorganized thinking and behavior, inappropriate emotional responses, and erratic actions. While Lisa's symptoms could suggest a psychotic disorder, they do not specifically indicate disorganized schizophrenia.
Choice C reason: Schizotypal disorder involves eccentric behavior, odd beliefs, and difficulty forming close relationships. Lisa's symptoms do not align with the core characteristics of schizotypal disorder.
Choice D reason: Brief psychotic disorder is a short-term condition that includes delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech. Lisa's symptoms could be part of a brief psychotic episode, but the specific mention of muscle rigidity and resistance to movement is more indicative of catatonia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A positive pregnancy test is a significant concern for a patient preparing for surgery as it can affect the type of anesthesia used and the surgical approach, due to the potential impact on the fetus.
Choice B reason: While a family history of hypertension is important, it is not as immediately concerning as a positive pregnancy test in a patient preparing for surgery.
Choice C reason: A signed advance directive is a document that outlines a patient's wishes regarding medical treatment and is not a concern but rather a part of preoperative preparation.
Choice D reason: A medical history of diabetes is important to consider in surgical patients due to potential complications with wound healing and blood glucose control, but it is not as urgent as confirming pregnancy status before surgery.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Direct communication with the surgeon can provide the patient with reassurance and specific information about the surgery, which may alleviate fears.
Choice B reason: Offering spiritual support may be helpful, but it does not directly address the patient's concern about the surgery itself.
Choice C reason: Providing statistics may be reassuring, but it may not fully address the patient's individual fears.
Choice D reason: Recommending analgesics only addresses pain management and not the patient's expressed fear regarding the surgery.
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