A nurse is caring for a patient who likely has ...

[rl]

A nurse is caring for a patient who likely has obsessive-compulsive disorder. The nurse is not familiar with the assessment data and behaviors associated this disorder. What action would be most appropriate for the nurse to take?
 
  1. Document all subjective and objective data provided by the client.
  2. Ask the primary health provider to identify needed subjective and objective assessment data.
  3. Research obsessive-compulsive disorder in the medical dictionary.
  4. Consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders for diagnostic criteria.

Question 2

What evaluative tool is most important in assessing a patient's mental condition?
 
  1. Beck Depression Inventory
  2. Mental Status Exam
  3. CAT scan
  4. WAIS

[carlsona147]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: 4
Explanation: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders provides diagnostic criteria that all members of the health care team will use in the diagnosis process and will serve as a resource for assessment and analysis of data. While communication with the primary care provider is appropriate, knowledge of the DSM is expected in a graduate nurse and this choice does not reflect an application of basic knowledge. A medical dictionary is not specific enough for diagnostic purposes. Documentation of subjective and objective data is appropriate; however, this action is not the most appropriate action to assist the nurse in determining the appropriate assessment and behaviors associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: 2
Explanation: The Beck Depression Inventory is important only if the nurse suspects that the patient is depressed. The mental status exam provides an overall picture of the patient's mental condition. A CAT scan is not part of an initial assessment. The WAIS (Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale) primarily tests intellectual functioning.

[rl]

TYSM

[amcvicar]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it