Which symptom reported by an adult patient, who was sexually ...

[kamilo84]

Which symptom reported by an adult patient, who was sexually abused as a child, re-flects the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
 
  a. A history of substance abuse
  b. Refusing to go to public places from which escape may be difficult
  c. Seeking advice and guidance prior to making any significant decision
  d. Ruminating easily concerning the abuse with friends and acquaintances

Question 2

The nurse is interviewing a patient who presents with a dislocated shoulder and demon-strates signs of anxiety although relying on her partner for answers. Although the partner is out of the room, which question is most important to ask?
 
  a. Have you been with your partner long?
  b. Are you being abused by your partner?
  c. Shall I notify the police that you would like to press charges?
  d. Have you ever been physically or emotionally hurt by someone?

[kmb352]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Substance abuse to help manage the unpleasant symptoms is characteristic of PTSD. Being uncomfortable in certain locations refers to agoraphobia. Seeking extensive support charac-terizes a dependent person. Ease in talking about the experience is uncharacteristic of PTSD.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
When the victim is alone, the nurse must seek information about abuse. Phrasing the question to avoid use of such terms as abuse or battered is essential. These terms are too emotion-ally charged, and patients often respond in the negative. The length of the relationship is not a priority. Asking to call the police is premature.

[kamilo84]

TYSM

[Sarahjh]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it