What is the best explanation a nurse can give to the family of a mentally ill patient regarding how a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship differs from personal relationships?
The focus is on the patient, and problems are discussed by the nurse and patient, but solutions are implemented by the patient.
The focus of the relationship is socialization, mutual needs are met, and feelings are shared openly.
The focus is creation of a partnership in which each member is concerned with the growth and satisfaction of the other.
The focus shifts from nurse to patient as the relationship develops, and advice is given by both, with solutions implemented mutually.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A therapeutic nurse-patient relationship is fundamentally patient-centered and goal-oriented, with a focus exclusively on the patient's needs and growth. The nurse assists in identifying and discussing problems, exploring alternatives, and providing support, but the responsibility for implementing solutions and behavioral change ultimately lies with the patient, fostering autonomy and self-efficacy within the relationship's defined boundaries.
Choice B rationale
This describes characteristics of a personal or social relationship, which is mutually satisfying and involves the reciprocal sharing of feelings and meeting of both individuals' needs. A therapeutic relationship, by contrast, maintains strict professional boundaries, is not mutual in meeting needs, and is focused solely on the patient's therapeutic outcomes and mental health goals.
Choice C rationale
This explanation, while reflecting partnership in goals, is too broad and leans toward the mutuality and reciprocal satisfaction found in a personal relationship. The professional nature of the therapeutic relationship dictates that the nurse's concern is specifically for the patient's growth, not a mutual concern for the nurse's growth and satisfaction, maintaining a clear professional boundary.
Choice D rationale
In a therapeutic relationship, the focus always remains on the patient; it does not shift to the nurse. Furthermore, the nurse does not offer personal advice, but rather helps the patient explore their own solutions. Mutual implementation of solutions also breaches professional boundaries and diminishes the patient's responsibility for their own self-directed change and recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Serotonin 5HT_2 receptors are targeted by many atypical antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Blocking these receptors is associated with desired effects like improved mood and reduced psychosis, but also with side effects like weight gain or hypotension. It is not the primary mechanism responsible for dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision, which are characteristic anticholinergic effects.
Choice B rationale
Acetylcholine (ACh) receptors, specifically muscarinic receptors, are blocked by many psychotropic drugs, especially older antidepressants and antipsychotics. This anticholinergic action inhibits parasympathetic nervous system responses, leading to the classic peripheral side effects: dry mouth (xerostomia), constipation (decreased peristalsis), and blurred vision (mydriasis/cycloplegia), which are directly mediated by ACh blockade.
Choice C rationale
Alpha-1 (α_1) adrenergic receptors are blocked by many psychotropic agents, especially antipsychotics. Blocking these receptors causes vasodilation and is primarily associated with orthostatic hypotension (dizziness upon standing) and reflex tachycardia. While it may sometimes contribute to overall side effect burden, it is not the direct cause of the triad of dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.
Choice D rationale
Histamine (H_1) receptors are blocked by many psychotropic drugs, particularly those with sedative properties. This blockade primarily leads to side effects such as sedation, drowsiness, and weight gain. While it contributes to the overall side effect profile, it is not the main pharmacological mechanism responsible for the distinct cluster of dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision symptoms.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow (hemodynamic response) associated with neural activity. While useful for mapping brain functions and research, it is generally not the primary diagnostic tool for identifying the anatomical structure of a cerebral aneurysm, such as one in the middle cerebral artery, which requires high-resolution static imaging.
Choice B rationale
Electroencephalography (EEG) records the electrical activity of the brain. It is primarily used to diagnose conditions like seizure disorders, sleep disorders, and certain brain injuries. An EEG does not provide anatomical images and therefore cannot directly visualize a middle cerebral artery aneurysm, which is a structural abnormality of a blood vessel.
Choice C rationale
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed anatomical images of the brain and its blood vessels, particularly when enhanced with contrast (MRA - Magnetic Resonance Angiography). MRI is highly effective in detecting and characterizing the size, shape, and location of a middle cerebral artery aneurysm due to its superior soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar imaging capabilities, often used for detailed planning.
Choice D rationale
Computed Tomography (CT), especially CT Angiography (CTA), is a rapid and widely accessible imaging technique that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images. CT is often the initial study in suspected cases of aneurysmal rupture (subarachnoid hemorrhage) and CTA can effectively visualize the cerebral vasculature to detect the presence and location of an unruptured or ruptured middle cerebral artery aneurysm.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.