CARN Co-Occurring Disorders 3

Question 1

A patient with depression and alcohol use disorder achieves sobriety. How long should the nurse wait before reassessing depressive symptoms to distinguish substance-induced depression from independent major depression?

Accepted Answer

2-4 weeks

Answer

Current guidelines recommend waiting 2-4 weeks of sobriety before reassessing depressive symptoms, as many substance-induced mood symptoms resolve within this timeframe.

Question 2

Which motivational interviewing technique is MOST effective when a patient with co-occurring disorders expresses ambivalence about treatment?

Accepted Answer

Reflective listening and exploring ambivalence

Answer

Reflective listening and exploring ambivalence are core MI techniques that help patients with co-occurring disorders move toward change by building intrinsic motivation.

Question 3

A patient with bipolar disorder begins using methamphetamine. Which mood episode is MOST likely to be precipitated by stimulant use?

Accepted Answer

Manic or hypomanic episode

Answer

Stimulant use such as methamphetamine is strongly associated with triggering manic or hypomanic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder due to dopaminergic activation.

Question 4

The CAGE questionnaire is being used to screen a patient with known depression. Which limitation should the nurse recognize?

Accepted Answer

It may have reduced sensitivity in individuals with psychiatric disorders

Answer

The CAGE questionnaire may have reduced sensitivity in individuals with psychiatric disorders, who may minimize or deny alcohol problems, necessitating supplemental screening tools.

Question 5

Which statement about tobacco use disorder and mental illness is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

People with mental illness consume approximately 44% of all cigarettes sold in the US

Answer

Research indicates that people with mental illness consume approximately 44% of all cigarettes sold in the US, reflecting the extremely high rates of tobacco use disorder in this population.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Co-Occurring Disorders 3