Physician Assistant Psychiatry and Behavioral Science

Question 1

Which medication is first-line for a patient with major depressive disorder and no contraindications?

Accepted Answer

Sertraline

Answer

SSRIs such as sertraline, escitalopram and fluoxetine are first-line for major depressive disorder because of their efficacy and safety profile.

Question 2

A patient has decreased need for sleep, grandiosity, pressured speech and risky spending for 10 days. Which is the most appropriate diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Bipolar I disorder, manic episode

Answer

A manic episode lasting at least 1 week (or any duration if hospitalized) with elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, grandiosity and pressured speech indicates bipolar I disorder.

Question 3

Which symptom is considered a 'positive' symptom of schizophrenia?

Accepted Answer

Auditory hallucinations

Answer

Positive symptoms add abnormal experiences, such as hallucinations, delusions and disorganized speech. Flat affect, alogia and avolition are negative symptoms.

Question 4

A patient taking an SSRI and tramadol develops agitation, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, clonus and fever. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin syndrome

Answer

Serotonin syndrome follows excess serotonergic activity, such as an SSRI combined with tramadol. It presents with autonomic instability, neuromuscular hyperactivity (clonus, hyperreflexia) and altered mental status.

Question 5

Which drug is first-line for treating alcohol withdrawal in a hospitalized patient?

Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines

Answer

Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and chlordiazepoxide are first-line. They reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent seizures and delirium tremens.

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Practice Test

Physician Assistant Psychiatry and Behavioral Science