CPEN Psychosocial Emergencies 3

Question 1

A 15-year-old presents with self-inflicted lacerations to her forearms. She states the cutting 'helps her feel better.' This behavior is BEST characterized as:

Accepted Answer

Non-suicidal self-injury used as an emotion regulation strategy

Answer

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is commonly used by adolescents as a maladaptive coping mechanism to regulate overwhelming emotions, not as a suicide attempt.

Question 2

Which statement by a parent MOST suggests that a child's conversion disorder symptoms are being reinforced?

Accepted Answer

'I carry her everywhere because she can't walk and I don't want her to fall.'

Answer

Carrying a child who has functional neurological symptoms reinforces illness behavior and secondary gain, which perpetuates conversion disorder.

Question 3

A 9-year-old who experienced sexual abuse is brought to the ED. During the forensic exam, he suddenly becomes mute and stares blankly. The nurse recognizes this as:

Accepted Answer

A dissociative response to trauma triggers

Answer

Dissociation, including emotional numbing and blank staring during trauma-related examinations, is a protective psychological response to overwhelming stress.

Question 4

When caring for a suicidal adolescent in the ED, which environmental safety measure is ESSENTIAL?

Accepted Answer

Removing all potentially harmful objects including IV tubing and gown strings

Answer

Environmental risk reduction by removing all potentially harmful objects is mandatory for suicidal patients undergoing psychiatric evaluation in the ED.

Question 5

A caregiver reports that her 4-year-old has been having nightmares, refusing to sleep alone, and is very clingy since a recent car accident. The most appropriate nursing response is:

Accepted Answer

Refer the family for trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy evaluation

Answer

Persistent post-traumatic symptoms in young children warrant referral for trauma-focused therapy; early intervention improves outcomes.

CPEN - Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CPEN - Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse Practice Test

CPEN Psychosocial Emergencies 3