A person says, Now that many state hospitals are closed, patients ...

[kwoodring]

A person says, Now that many state hospitals are closed, patients with psychiatric problems are free in our community. It is not safe for me. The nurse's reply should be based on knowledge that
 
  a. depressed patients are nonviolent.
  b. state hospitals are no longer needed.
  c. major depression is very prevalent.
  d. bizarre behavior is viewed as sensational.

Question 2

A patient attends outpatient programs at a community mental health center and meets with the primary nurse regularly
 
  Last week, the patient's haloperidol (Haldol) dose was reduced from 5 mg to 2 mg daily to decrease side effects. The nurse will need to monitor changes in:
  a. the activity schedule at the center.
  b. the nature of the patient's symptoms.
  c. attention given to the patient by other staff.
  d. balance among psychotherapeutic management elements.

[whitcassie]

Answer to Question 1

C
Four of the top medical disorders causing disability are psychiatric disorders (i.e., major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and alcohol abuse). The other options are not true statements.

Answer to Question 2

B
It will be necessary for the nurse to assess for exacerbation of the patient's symptoms of psychosis as well as for an amelioration of side effects. Dosage decrease might lead to the return or worsening of positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, and negative symptoms such as blunted affect, social withdrawal, and poor grooming.

[kwoodring]

Correct answers!

[whitcassie]

Great! Please up vote