The nurse is evaluating several clients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Which client will be assessed as having the worst potential outcomes?
An adolescent client with alogia, anhedonia, and a flat or blunted affect.
A client who has a first cousin with bipolar I disorder.
A client with an exacerbation of hallucinations and delusions 2 years after diagnosis.
An older adult client with an onset of positive symptoms at age 35.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This client presents with negative symptoms of schizophrenia, which are often associated with a poorer prognosis. Negative symptoms like alogia and anhedonia indicate a diminished emotional response and lack of motivation, which can severely impact the client's ability to function and respond to treatment.

Choice B reason: Having a first cousin with bipolar I disorder may suggest a genetic predisposition to mood disorders but does not directly influence the prognosis of a client already diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Choice C reason: While an exacerbation of hallucinations and delusions indicates a worsening of symptoms, it is the positive symptoms of schizophrenia that are often more responsive to treatment. Therefore, this client may not necessarily have the worst outcomes.
Choice D reason: An older adult with a late onset of schizophrenia typically has a better prognosis than those with an earlier onset. Late-onset schizophrenia is often less severe and may respond better to treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Exploring is a therapeutic technique that involves delving into a client's experiences and feelings, which can be beneficial in understanding their perspective.
Choice B reason: Silence can be a therapeutic technique that gives clients space to think and express themselves.
Choice C reason: Voicing doubt can undermine the client's confidence and is not considered a therapeutic response.
Choice D reason: Challenging may confront the client in a non-therapeutic way, potentially leading to defensiveness.
Choice E reason: Disapproving can make clients feel judged and is not conducive to a therapeutic relationship.
Choice F reason: Agreeing may not always be therapeutic as it can prevent clients from exploring all aspects of their issues.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation is rapid breathing that usually occurs because of anxiety or panic. This leads to low levels of carbon dioxide in your blood which causes a number of symptoms. Hyperventilation in anxiety can be a tricky thing to understand. On one hand, it can feel like you're suffocating or not getting enough air. On the other hand, hyperventilation can also cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and lightheadedness.
Choice B: Irritability
Irritability is a common symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Individuals with GAD often experience severe feelings of fear and unease and report feeling restless and irritable that interfere with the quality of their life.

Choice C: Anorexia
While there is a relationship between anxiety disorders and anorexia nervosa, anorexia is not a common symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Anorexia nervosa is a separate disorder that involves a fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.
Choice D: Insomnia
Insomnia is highly prevalent in psychiatric disorders, and it has significant implications. The anxiety that characterizes GAD often interferes with the ability to sleep and leads to insomnia. This is not unexpected. Anxiety might be viewed as an inappropriate escalation of a response called arousal.
Choice E: Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Individuals with GAD may feel restless and have trouble relaxing. They may also tire easily or feel tired all the time.
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