Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Flashcards

A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia is experiencing command hallucinations. Which nursing intervention is the priority?

Answer: Assess whether the patient intends to act on the commands

Assessing the patient's intent to act on command hallucinations is the priority because it determines the immediate safety risk.

Which medication class is considered first-line pharmacotherapy for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults?

Answer: SSRIs/SNRIs

SSRIs and SNRIs are first-line treatments for GAD due to their efficacy and more favorable safety profile compared to benzodiazepines.

A nurse is using motivational interviewing with a patient who abuses alcohol. Which statement best reflects the 'rolling with resistance' technique?

Answer: 'It sounds like you're not ready to make changes yet, and that's okay.'

Rolling with resistance means acknowledging ambivalence without confrontation, validating the patient's current position.

Which of the following is the hallmark symptom that distinguishes bipolar I disorder from bipolar II disorder?

Answer: At least one full manic episode

Bipolar I disorder requires at least one full manic episode, while bipolar II involves hypomania without full mania.

A patient taking lithium reports nausea, vomiting, coarse tremor, and confusion. What is the nurse's priority action?

Answer: Hold the lithium and notify the provider immediately

These symptoms indicate lithium toxicity, which requires immediate medication hold and provider notification to prevent serious harm.

Which therapeutic communication technique is most appropriate when a patient states, 'I feel like nobody cares about me'?

Answer: 'It sounds like you're feeling very alone right now.'

Reflecting the patient's feelings demonstrates empathy and encourages further exploration of their emotional experience.