The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with schizophrenia. Which of the following should the nurse identify as findings consistent with schizophrenia? (Select all that apply.)
Schizophrenia can be cured with antidepressants.
Schizophrenia typically first presents in adolescence or early adulthood.
Antipsychotic medications can be used to manage symptoms of hallucinations and delusions.
Some clients with schizophrenia have a higher risk of substance abuse disorders.
Schizophrenia affects thoughts and perceptions.
Correct Answer : B,C,D,E
Choice A Reason:
Schizophrenia cannot be cured with antidepressants. Antidepressants may be used to treat comorbid depression in individuals with schizophrenia, but they do not address the core symptoms of schizophrenia itself. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition that typically requires lifelong treatment with antipsychotic medications to manage symptoms.
Choice B Reason:
Schizophrenia typically first presents in adolescence or early adulthood. This is the period when symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking often first become apparent. The onset of schizophrenia during this developmental stage can significantly impact an individual's social and vocational abilities.
Choice C Reason:
Antipsychotic medications are the cornerstone of schizophrenia treatment. They can be used to manage symptoms of hallucinations and delusions, which are known as positive symptoms of schizophrenia. These medications work by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine.
Choice D Reason:
Individuals with schizophrenia have a higher risk of substance abuse disorders. Substance use can exacerbate symptoms of schizophrenia and complicate the course of the illness. It is important for treatment plans to address any co-occurring substance use disorders.
Choice E Reason:
Schizophrenia significantly affects thoughts and perceptions. It can cause distorted thinking patterns, false beliefs, and sensory experiences that others do not share. These symptoms can be distressing and may lead to difficulties in distinguishing reality.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Offering false reassurance occurs when a nurse or healthcare provider dismisses a patient's concerns with general comforting statements without addressing the reality of the situation or the patient's feelings. In this case, the nurse's response of "Don't worry, no one will harm your family" is an attempt to alleviate the patient's anxiety without acknowledging the patient's fear or providing a realistic plan to ensure the safety of the patient's family. This type of communication can undermine trust and prevent the patient from feeling heard and supported.
Choice B Reason:
Offering sympathy involves sharing feelings of pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune. While the nurse's response may seem sympathetic, it does not directly express shared emotions or an understanding of the patient's distress. Therefore, it does not represent offering sympathy as a communication breakdown in this context.
Choice C Reason:
Providing a passive response would involve the nurse not actively engaging with the patient's concerns or failing to provide any response. Since the nurse in the scenario does respond to the patient's statement, this does not constitute a passive response.
Choice D Reason:
Showing disapproval would involve the nurse expressing judgment or criticism of the patient's feelings or actions. The nurse's response does not contain elements of judgment or criticism; rather, it is an attempt to reassure the patient, albeit falsely.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While suggesting the client discuss their concerns with their physician is a valid response, it may not provide the immediate emotional support the client is seeking. It's important for the nurse to address the client's current anxiety and provide reassurance before referring them to their physician.
Choice B Reason:
This response dismisses the client's fears and may come across as insensitive. It's crucial to acknowledge the client's emotions and provide a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.
Choice C Reason:
Encouraging the client to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and helps in understanding the client's perspective. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship and can help alleviate the client's anxiety.
Choice D Reason:
While recommending lifestyle changes is beneficial for overall health, this response does not address the client's immediate emotional needs. The nurse should first provide support for the client's expressed fears before discussing lifestyle modifications.
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