A nurse would anticipate that treatment for a patient with memory ...

[drink]

A nurse would anticipate that treatment for a patient with memory difficulties might include medications designed to:
 
  a. inhibit gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
  b. prevent destruction of acetylcholine.
  c. reduce serotonin metabolism.
  d. increase dopamine activity.

Question 2

The parent of an adolescent diagnosed with schizophrenia asks the nurse, My child's doctor ordered a PET. What kind of test is that? Select the nurse's best reply.
 
  a. This test uses a magnetic field and gamma waves to identify problem areas in the brain. Does your teenager have any metal implants?
  b. PET means positron-emission tomography. It is a special type of scan that shows blood flow and activity in the brain.
  c. A PET scan passes an electrical current through the brain and shows brain-wave activity. It can help diagnose seizures.
  d. It's a special x-ray that shows structures of the brain and whether there has ever been a brain injury.

[cam1229]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Increased acetylcholine plays a role in learning and memory. Preventing destruction of acetylcholine by acetylcholinesteras e would result in higher levels of acetylcholine, with the potential for improved memory. GABA affects anxiety rather than memory. Increased dopamine would cause symptoms associated with schizophrenia or mania rather than improve memory. Decreasing dopamine at receptor sites is associated with Parkinson's disease rather than improving memory.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
The parent is seeking information about PET scans. It is important to use terms the parent can understand, so the nurse should identify what the initials mean. The correct response is the only option that provides information relevant to PET scans. The distracters describe MRI, CT scans, and EEG. See relationship to audience response question.