Kaplan and Sadocks Synopsis of Psychiatry Questions

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it acknowledges the patient's discomfort without making assumptions or judgments. By recognizing the difficulty the patient is facing and offering to discuss it when they are ready, the nurse shows empathy and respect for the patient's feelings. Choice A is incorrect because it assumes the family is a problem for the patient. Choice B is incorrect because it focuses on expressing negative feelings rather than addressing the patient's current discomfort. Choice C is incorrect because it deflects the conversation to the physician without addressing the patient's immediate needs.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it emphasizes the nurse's role in actively working with the patient to address interpersonal problems. The nurse's initial role is to provide support and assistance to the patient in resolving their issues collaboratively. Choice A focuses on medical treatment and collaboration with the doctor, not specifically addressing interpersonal problems. Choice C solely emphasizes the role of medications in improving the patient's well-being, neglecting the interpersonal aspect. Choice D suggests passing off the responsibility to other professionals, which contradicts the nurse's initial role as a source of help for the patient. In summary, choice B is correct because it highlights the nurse's active involvement in solving the patient's interpersonal problems.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Behavioral health home care. This option provides ongoing assessment, socialization opportunities, and education about medication and relapse prevention, which are all essential for the elderly patient with major depression. Additionally, it allows the patient to stay in their own home environment, promoting comfort and familiarity. Option B: Partial hospitalization may not provide the ongoing support and socialization opportunities needed for the patient. Option C: A skilled nursing facility may offer medical care but may not focus on mental health needs or socialization. Option D: A halfway house is typically for individuals transitioning from addiction treatment and may not address the specific needs of an elderly patient with major depression.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Implement suicide precautions. This is the highest priority because the patient has a plan for suicide, which poses an immediate risk to their safety. Implementing suicide precautions involves ensuring the patient's environment is safe, removing any potential means of self-harm, and closely monitoring the patient to prevent any suicide attempts. Choice B is incorrect because offering high-calorie snacks and fluids frequently addresses the physical aspect of weight loss but does not address the immediate safety concern of suicide. Choice C is incorrect because assisting the patient to identify personal strengths is important for building self-esteem but is not the highest priority when the patient is at risk for suicide. Choice D is incorrect because observing the patient for therapeutic effects of antidepressant medication is important but not as urgent as ensuring the patient's safety in the case of suicidal ideation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it seeks clarification and prompts the patient to specify who they are referring to when they say "everybody." This response shows active listening and encourages deeper communication. Choice A offers sympathy but doesn't address the issue directly. Choice C dismisses the significance of "frobitzing." Choice D asks for the reason behind "frobitzing" without seeking clarification on the people involved.