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Abuse, Violence, Trauma, and Stressor Related Disorders
Study Questions
Clinical Picture of Abuse and Violence
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Elder abuse is not primarily about harm caused by an older person to a younger family member. Instead, it revolves around mistreatment of older individuals.
Choice B rationale:
While physical harm can be a form of elder abuse, it is not the only type. Elder abuse encompasses various forms, including emotional, financial, and neglectful mistreatment.
Choice C rationale:
Elder abuse isn't limited to harm caused by intimate partners. It can involve various relationships, including family members, caregivers, and other individuals.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct choice. Elder abuse often involves financial exploitation, where individuals in positions of trust take advantage of older persons' assets or funds. This can include improper use of funds, fraud, and manipulation of finances.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Low socioeconomic status can contribute to stress and frustration, increasing the likelihood of abusive behavior. Financial struggles may exacerbate tensions in relationships.
Choice B rationale:
A history of trauma or abuse can perpetuate a cycle of violence. Individuals who have experienced trauma may struggle with coping mechanisms and interpersonal relationships, potentially leading to abusive behavior.
Choice C rationale:
Poor communication skills can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and escalation of conflicts, which can contribute to abusive interactions.
Choice D rationale:
Unemployment, while a societal factor, is not typically classified as an individual factor contributing to abuse and violence. It's more related to economic stress.
Choice E rationale:
Lack of access to education can limit individuals' ability to understand healthy relationship dynamics and conflict resolution, potentially contributing to abusive behavior.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Dismissing the client's feelings by saying "you shouldn't feel that way" invalidates their emotions and does not provide the needed support.
Choice B rationale:
Minimizing the client's feelings by suggesting that they will "get over it" can further isolate them and hinder their ability to express their emotions.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct choice. Validating the client's feelings and offering support is crucial. Acknowledging their emotions and assuring them of available support promotes a therapeutic relationship.
Choice D rationale:
Invalidating the client's feelings and implying they are exaggerating can worsen their emotional state and discourage them from seeking help.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Choice A suggests blaming the victim by implying that they should have been more cautious, which is not a therapeutic response. Victims of sexual assault should not be made to feel responsible for the actions of the perpetrator.
Choice B rationale:
Choice B advises the victim to move forward and not dwell on the past, which might minimize the emotional impact of the assault. While moving forward is important, it is equally important to acknowledge the victim's feelings and provide support.
Choice C rationale:
Choice C is the correct therapeutic response. It reassures the victim that the assault was not their fault and emphasizes that nobody deserves to be assaulted. This response promotes healing, self-worth, and reduces feelings of self-blame.
Choice D rationale:
Choice D dismisses the victim's feelings by suggesting not to think about the assault. Avoiding discussing the issue can hinder the victim's recovery process and prevent them from addressing their emotions.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Child abuse involves violence directed at minors within families or guardianships. It doesn't necessarily involve unrelated individuals in public or private spaces.
Choice B rationale:
Intimate partner violence refers to abuse within romantic relationships, which may occur in private spaces but isn't limited to unrelated individuals.
Choice C rationale:
Elder abuse pertains to violence against the elderly, typically within caregiving relationships, and doesn't focus on unrelated individuals in public spaces.
Choice D rationale:
Choice D is the correct answer. Community violence encompasses interpersonal acts occurring between unrelated individuals in public or private settings. This includes incidents like street violence, muggings, and other forms of random violence.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bipolar disorder involves mood swings between manic and depressive states, but it's not directly associated with the aftermath of abuse and violence.
Choice B rationale:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, but it's not a primary psychological disorder associated with abuse and violence aftermath.
Choice C rationale:
Schizophrenia involves disorganized thinking, hallucinations, and delusions, but it's not typically linked to the aftermath of abuse or violence.
Choice D rationale:
Choice D is the correct answer. PTSD commonly arises after exposure to traumatic events, such as abuse and violence. It leads to symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbing, often impacting the victim's mental and emotional well-being.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Confronting the parents about potential abuse might escalate the situation and put the child at further risk. The nurse's priority is ensuring the child's safety, and confronting the parents directly without proper evidence or professional intervention could lead to unintended consequences.
Choice B rationale:
While documenting the findings and informing the school counselor is an important step, it should not be the initial action. The nurse's primary responsibility is to protect the child's welfare, and informing the school counselor alone might not ensure immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale:
Waiting for the parents to mention the injuries is not appropriate because it delays necessary intervention. If the child is indeed being abused, waiting for the parents to mention the injuries could prolong the child's suffering and jeopardize their safety.
Choice D rationale:
Notifying Child Protective Services (CPS) immediately is the correct initial action. When a child exhibits unexplained injuries along with a history of frequent absences from school, it raises concerns for potential abuse or neglect. CPS has the authority and expertise to conduct thorough investigations and take appropriate actions to ensure the child's safety.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging social isolation is not a strategy for elder abuse prevention. Isolating older adults can actually increase their vulnerability to abuse, as they may lose contact with people who could offer help and support.
Choice B rationale:
Providing caregivers with stress management techniques is an effective strategy. Caregivers often experience high levels of stress, which can sometimes contribute to abusive behavior. Teaching them healthy ways to cope with stress can reduce the likelihood of abuse.
Choice C rationale:
Educating caregivers about financial exploitation risks is crucial. Elder financial abuse is a common form of mistreatment. By educating caregivers about the signs of financial exploitation and how to prevent it, older adults are less likely to be taken advantage of.
Choice D rationale:
Establishing regular communication between caregivers and older adults is important. Open communication channels allow caregivers to identify and address potential issues early on, reducing the risk of abuse or neglect.
Choice E rationale:
Promoting awareness about community resources for elder support is essential. Providing caregivers with information about available resources, such as support groups, helplines, and services, empowers them to seek help when needed and decreases the likelihood of abusive situations.
.
Child Abuse
Explanation
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Stress management techniques are not directly related to child abuse prevention. While teaching parents and children how to manage stress can be beneficial for overall well-being, it is not a primary prevention strategy specifically focused on preventing child abuse.
Choice B rationale:
Conflict resolution skills are an important aspect of preventing child abuse. Teaching parents and children effective ways to resolve conflicts can reduce the likelihood of situations escalating to the point of abuse. This choice is relevant because it empowers individuals to handle disagreements and stressors without resorting to harmful behaviors.
Choice C rationale:
Substance use prevention strategies are crucial in preventing child abuse. Substance abuse can impair judgment and increase the risk of abusive behaviors. By educating parents about the risks of substance abuse and providing strategies to avoid it, the nurse contributes to a safer environment for children.
Choice D rationale:
Providing home visits to at-risk families is a secondary prevention strategy. While it allows professionals to assess the family's situation and offer support, it doesn't directly address the broader community education and awareness that primary prevention entails.
Choice E rationale:
Teaching appropriate use of weapons is not a primary prevention strategy for child abuse. In fact, discussing weapons in the context of child abuse prevention could be counterproductive and potentially dangerous.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Asking "Why did this happen to you?" could come across as accusatory and judgmental, potentially shutting down effective communication. It might make the child defensive or reluctant to share their experience.
Choice B rationale:
While "Did your parents hurt you?" is a direct question, it might be too blunt and may not encourage the child to open up. The child might feel pressured or fearful to respond truthfully.
Choice C rationale:
"Can you tell me what happened?" is an open-ended question that encourages the child to share their experience in their own words. It allows the child to feel more in control of the conversation and to disclose information at their own pace.
Choice D rationale:
"You must be feeling scared, right?" assumes the child's emotions and can be leading. It's better to let the child express their feelings without suggesting specific emotions.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While "My parents hit me sometimes" is concerning and indicative of potential physical abuse, it does not specifically support the suspicion of emotional abuse.
Choice B rationale:
"I don't feel safe at home" is a statement that directly implies emotional distress and raises suspicion of emotional abuse. Feeling unsafe at home can suggest a hostile or threatening environment that goes beyond physical harm.
Choice C rationale:
"I can't make any friends" hints at potential social difficulties but does not necessarily indicate emotional abuse. It could have various causes, such as shyness or social skills challenges.
Choice D rationale:
"Nobody cares about me" suggests feelings of neglect and isolation, which could be associated with emotional abuse. However, it's not as directly indicative of emotional abuse as the statement in choice B.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Avoiding expressing emotions is not a positive outcome in the context of a child who has experienced abuse. This could indicate emotional suppression or difficulty in coping with emotions, which are not healthy responses to intervention.
Choice B rationale:
If the child's injuries remain unchanged, it suggests that the intervention has not effectively addressed the safety and well-being of the child. The lack of improvement in physical condition is not a positive outcome.
Choice C rationale:
The correct answer. Improved social skills indicate positive progress in the child's overall well-being. Enhancing social skills suggests that the child is developing healthier interpersonal relationships, which is a positive response to intervention.
Choice D rationale:
Reporting occasional suicidal thoughts is not a positive outcome. It indicates that the child is still experiencing significant emotional distress and may require further intervention to address their mental health and emotional well-being.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Isolating the child from the family can lead to further emotional trauma and disruption of healthy relationships. The main objective of nursing interventions is to ensure the child's well-being while maintaining their support systems whenever possible.
Choice B rationale:
While consequences for abusers are important, the main objective of nursing interventions is to prioritize the safety, healing, and well-being of the child. Punishment alone does not address the holistic needs of the child.
Choice C rationale:
Reporting every suspected case to the authorities might be legally required, but it is not the main objective of nursing interventions for child abuse. Nursing interventions focus on directly assisting the child and their healing process.
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer. The main objective of nursing interventions for child abuse is to ensure the child's safety, protect them from harm, and support their physical and emotional healing. This holistic approach addresses the immediate crisis and promotes long-term well-being.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using leading and suggestive questions can influence the child's responses and potentially compromise the accuracy of the assessment. Open-ended, non-leading questions are essential to gather unbiased information.
Choice B rationale:
Conducting the assessment in a public place may expose the child to embarrassment or discomfort, inhibiting them from openly discussing their experiences. A safe and private environment encourages the child to share sensitive information.
Choice C rationale:
Involving the child's peers in the assessment process can lead to breaches of confidentiality and might not create a conducive environment for the child to disclose their experiences honestly.
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer. Performing the assessment in a safe and private environment allows the child to speak freely without fear of repercussions. This approach promotes trust between the nurse and the child, enabling a comprehensive and accurate assessment of their situation.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Psychological evaluation of the caregiver - This choice is not typically a component of the nursing assessment of child abuse. While understanding the caregiver's psychological state can be important, the focus of the assessment is primarily on the child's well-being and safety.
Choice B rationale:
Collecting subjective and objective data - This is a crucial component of the nursing assessment for child abuse. Gathering both subjective information and objective data (physical examination findings, lab tests) helps in forming a comprehensive understanding of the situation and aids in making informed decisions.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the child's developmental milestones - This is important because assessing the child's developmental milestones can provide valuable insights into their overall well-being and potential developmental delays. Abuse can have a significant impact on a child's development, so this assessment helps in identifying any concerns.
Choice D rationale:
History-taking from the child only - While taking history from the child is important, it's not the only source of information. Children might be hesitant to disclose abuse directly, and relying solely on their history might miss crucial information. Involving caregivers, witnesses, and other professionals is essential for a comprehensive assessment.
Choice E rationale:
Ensuring the child's consent and comfort - This is a critical aspect of the assessment. Ensuring the child's consent and comfort builds trust and promotes effective communication. It allows the child to feel safe and more likely to share important information about their situation.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Emotional abuse - This type of abuse is primarily psychological and doesn't usually involve physical signs like bruises. Emotional abuse can cause emotional and behavioral changes in children, but bruises are not indicative of emotional abuse.
Choice B rationale:
Neglect - Neglect often involves failure to provide for a child's basic needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical care. While neglect can lead to various health issues, bruises in different stages of healing suggest physical harm, which is not the primary characteristic of neglect.
Choice C rationale:
Sexual abuse - Sexual abuse can cause physical and psychological harm, but bruises on various parts of the body are not specific indicators of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse signs usually involve genital or anal trauma, behavioral changes, or specific symptoms related to the abuse.
Choice D rationale:
Physical abuse - Bruises in various stages of healing on different body parts are consistent with physical abuse. These bruises raise concerns about intentional harm, and their presence suggests the child has been subjected to physical violence or injury.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Stress management techniques - Teaching parents stress management techniques can help them cope with challenging situations without resorting to abusive behaviors. Reducing parental stress can contribute to a healthier parent-child relationship.
Choice B rationale:
Conflict resolution skills - Teaching parents effective ways to manage conflicts without resorting to violence models healthy behavior for children. It also reduces the likelihood of aggressive behavior in the family environment.
Choice C rationale:
Substance use prevention strategies - Substance abuse can impair judgment and increase the risk of abusive behavior. Educating parents about substance use prevention helps create a safer home environment for children.
Choice D rationale:
Providing home visits to at-risk families - While home visits can be important for assessing and supporting families, they are not considered a primary prevention strategy. Home visits are more aligned with secondary prevention efforts, aimed at identifying and addressing existing issues.
Choice E rationale:
Teaching appropriate use of weapons - This choice is not a primary prevention strategy for child abuse. In fact, promoting weapon use education could potentially introduce more risks into the household environment. It's important to focus on non-violent strategies for conflict resolution and child safety.
Explanation
"Can you tell me what happened?"
Choice A rationale:
"Why did this happen to you?" - This choice places blame on the child and implies that they may have done something to cause the abuse. This approach is not empathetic and can hinder effective communication.
Choice B rationale:
"Did your parents hurt you?" - This choice assumes the cause of the abuse and uses a closed-ended question, which may not encourage the child to open up. It's essential to provide an open and safe space for the child to share their experiences.
Choice C rationale:
"Can you tell me what happened?" - This choice is open-ended and non-judgmental, encouraging the child to share their perspective at their own pace. It demonstrates empathy and a willingness to listen, fostering effective communication and building trust.
Choice D rationale:
"You must be feeling scared, right?" - While acknowledging the child's emotions is important, this choice assumes the child's feelings and may not accurately reflect their emotional state. Effective communication involves allowing the child to express their feelings without leading or assuming.
Explanation
"I don't feel safe at home."
Choice A rationale:
"My parents hit me sometimes." - Physical abuse is indicated in this statement, not emotional abuse. It's important to differentiate between the two types of abuse.
Choice B rationale:
"I don't feel safe at home." - This statement directly suggests a lack of emotional safety within the child's home environment, which aligns with signs of emotional abuse such as fear and withdrawal. It provides insight into the child's emotional well-being.
Choice C rationale:
"I can't make any friends." - While difficulty in forming friendships can be indicative of emotional issues, it's not specific enough to confirm emotional abuse. This statement could also arise from various other factors.
Choice D rationale:
"Nobody cares about me." - This statement does suggest emotional distress, but it's not as directly tied to emotional abuse as Choice B. It could potentially indicate other emotional issues or self-esteem problems.
Explanation
"The child demonstrates improved social skills."
Choice A rationale:
"The child avoids expressing emotions." - This outcome suggests emotional suppression, which is not a positive response to intervention. Encouraging a child to express their emotions in a healthy way is essential.
Choice B rationale:
"The child's injuries remain unchanged." - This outcome focuses on physical aspects and doesn't necessarily reflect the effectiveness of interventions addressing the emotional impact of abuse.
Choice C rationale:
"The child demonstrates improved social skills." - This outcome indicates progress in the child's emotional well-being and ability to interact positively with others. Improved social skills suggest that the child is developing coping mechanisms and support systems.
Choice D rationale:
"The child reports occasional suicidal thoughts." - While this choice could reflect that the child is opening up about their feelings, it also indicates ongoing emotional distress. Positive response to intervention involves improvements in overall well-being rather than just occasional thoughts of self-harm.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Isolating the child from the family is not the main objective of nursing interventions for child abuse. It may exacerbate the emotional trauma that the child is already experiencing by removing them from a potentially supportive environment.
Choice B rationale:
Punishing the abusers severely, while important from a legal perspective, is not the primary focus of nursing interventions. The main goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of the child and provide them with the necessary support.
Choice C rationale:
Reporting every suspected case to the authorities is an important step in addressing child abuse, but it is not the sole objective of nursing interventions. The broader focus is on the child's safety and recovery.
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer. Nursing interventions for child abuse are primarily aimed at protecting the child from further harm, promoting their safety within their family or a suitable environment, and providing the necessary support to aid in their healing process. This approach acknowledges the psychological and emotional needs of the child while addressing the physical aspects of abuse.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using leading and suggestive questions should be avoided during the nursing assessment of child abuse. These types of questions can influence the child's responses and potentially compromise the accuracy of the information gathered.
Choice B rationale:
Conducting the assessment in a public place is not ideal as it can lead to discomfort for the child and inhibit open communication. Privacy is crucial to create a safe space where the child can share their experiences without fear.
Choice C rationale:
Involving the child's peers in the assessment process might not be appropriate, as discussing potential abuse in the presence of peers could cause embarrassment or pressure the child to withhold information.
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer. Performing the assessment in a safe and private environment is essential to ensure that the child feels comfortable and secure while discussing their experiences of abuse. This setting encourages honest communication and allows the nurse to gather accurate information.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Psychological evaluation of the caregiver can provide valuable insights, but it is not a core component of the nursing assessment of child abuse. The focus should be on the child's well-being and safety.
Choice B rationale:
The correct answer. Collecting subjective and objective data is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. This includes gathering information about the child's physical and emotional state, as well as the circumstances surrounding the suspected abuse.
Choice C rationale:
The correct answer. Assessing the child's developmental milestones is important because it helps identify potential delays or regressions that could indicate abuse. Monitoring developmental progress can provide valuable information about the child's overall well-being.
Choice D rationale:
History-taking from the child only is not sufficient. It's important to gather information from various sources, including caregivers and any other relevant individuals involved in the child's life.
Choice E rationale:
The correct answer. Ensuring the child's consent and comfort is essential to establish trust and facilitate open communication during the assessment process. Children should feel safe and respected throughout the evaluation.
.
Elder Abuse
Explanation
History.
Choice A rationale:
Prioritizing the physical examination might be essential in many cases, but emotional distress and withdrawal are primarily related to psychological and emotional aspects rather than solely physical issues. A physical examination might not provide the depth of information needed to understand the underlying emotional concerns.
Choice B rationale:
Laboratory tests are unlikely to reveal insights into emotional distress and withdrawal. These signs are subjective and behavioral in nature, not typically indicated by abnormalities in lab results.
Choice C rationale:
Diagnostic tests, like laboratory tests, are more focused on identifying physiological abnormalities or specific medical conditions. They are unlikely to provide information about emotional distress and withdrawal.
Choice D rationale:
History-taking is the most relevant component to prioritize in this scenario. Older adults may have complex psychosocial factors contributing to emotional distress, such as loss of loved ones, social isolation, or recent life changes. Gathering a comprehensive history can uncover these underlying issues and provide context for the emotional changes observed.
Explanation
Choice A:
Providing education on financial management,
Choice B:
Promoting regular medical check-ups, and Choice E:
Offering counseling and support groups.
Choice A rationale:
Educating caregivers about financial management is important because financial exploitation is a common form of elder abuse. Teaching them to safeguard finances helps protect vulnerable older adults.
Choice B rationale:
Regular medical check-ups are crucial as they enable early detection of any physical or emotional signs of abuse. This can also foster trust between the caregiver and the healthcare team.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the use of physical restraints is inappropriate as it violates an individual's rights and dignity, potentially leading to abuse or neglect.
Choice D rationale:
Recommending isolation for safety is not advisable. Isolation can worsen emotional distress and increase vulnerability to abuse. Maintaining social connections is important for mental well-being.
Choice E rationale:
Offering counseling and support groups can help caregivers and older adults cope with stressors and address potential abuse situations. Emotional support is crucial for maintaining mental health and preventing abuse.
Explanation
Document the patient's response and continue with the assessment.
Choice A rationale:
Documenting the patient's response is essential for accurate record-keeping and communication among the healthcare team. The nurse should continue with the assessment while remaining vigilant for any inconsistencies or signs of abuse that may arise later.
Choice B rationale:
Reiterating the question with more emphasis on honesty might come across as pressuring the patient to disclose abuse. This could make the patient uncomfortable and less likely to share information.
Choice C rationale:
While it's important to respect the patient's denial, elder abuse is often underreported due to fear, dependence, or manipulation. Therefore, it's crucial to continue the assessment while observing for other indicators of abuse.
Choice D rationale:
Requesting the presence of a family member before continuing the assessment could potentially escalate the situation if the family member is involved in the abuse. This action may compromise the patient's safety and comfort.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I'm sure they're just frustrated. Try to be more understanding." This choice is not appropriate as it downplays the seriousness of the situation and implies that the patient should tolerate the threats. The patient's safety and well-being are the nurse's priority.
Choice B rationale:
"Let's discuss options for getting you the support you need." This is the correct response. It acknowledges the patient's concerns and offers to explore solutions together. It shows empathy and a commitment to helping the patient find a way to address the abusive situation.
Choice C rationale:
"Maybe you should try to do more to avoid conflicts." This response places blame on the patient and implies that they are responsible for the abuse. It ignores the fact that abuse is not the patient's fault and shifts the responsibility away from the caregiver who is behaving abusively.
Choice D rationale:
"Just ignore those threats; they don't mean anything." This response minimizes the threats and dismisses the patient's feelings. Ignoring threats can escalate the situation and put the patient at further risk.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Reporting the suspected abuse to appropriate authorities." This is the priority action. The nurse has an ethical and legal obligation to protect the patient's safety. Suspicion of abuse must be reported to safeguard the patient from further harm.
Choice B rationale:
"Assuring the patient that everything will be kept confidential." While confidentiality is important, it should not override the need to protect the patient's safety. Reporting suspected abuse takes precedence over maintaining confidentiality in this situation.
Choice C rationale:
"Encouraging the patient to confront the suspected abuser." Directly confronting the suspected abuser could potentially escalate the situation and jeopardize the patient's safety. Reporting to authorities is a more appropriate course of action.
Choice D rationale:
"Documenting the injuries without further investigation." Documenting injuries is important for the patient's medical record, but it does not address the immediate safety concern. Reporting the abuse is essential to ensure proper intervention.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Cognitive function and personality traits." Elder abuse can have significant psychological effects. Assessing cognitive function and personality traits helps identify changes that may indicate emotional distress or mental health issues resulting from abuse.
Choice B rationale:
"Financial status and property ownership." While financial abuse is a concern, this choice focuses primarily on the material aspect of abuse. Mental and emotional impact on the client's health is a higher priority in this context.
Choice C rationale:
"Social support and involvement in community activities." While social support is important, it is not the primary indicator of the impact of abuse on mental and emotional health. The effects of abuse may manifest even if the client has a supportive social network.
Choice D rationale:
"Use of assistive devices and mobility aids." Assistive devices and mobility aids are relevant to physical health, not the mental and emotional impact of abuse. Mental health assessment is more relevant in this context.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Providing education to the client about legal rights (Choice A) is important, but it might not immediately address the safety concerns of the older adult who has already experienced elder abuse. Legal education should be a part of the care plan, but safety takes precedence.
Choice B rationale:
Arranging for the client to move into a long-term care facility (Choice B) might be an option if the client's safety cannot be ensured at their current location. However, moving into a new facility can be overwhelming and might not be the most immediate priority. Developing a safety plan can help address the abuse concerns directly.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to confront the abuser about the abuse (Choice C) could potentially escalate the situation and put the client at risk of further harm. This choice may not ensure the client's safety, which is the primary concern.
Choice D rationale:
Developing a safety plan for the client to prevent further abuse (Choice D) is the priority intervention. This choice ensures that immediate measures are taken to protect the client from further harm. A safety plan might involve assessing the client's environment, identifying potential risks, providing resources for emergency situations, and connecting the client with support services.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Unexplained bruises on the arms (Choice A) are concerning and might indicate physical abuse. However, bruises can sometimes occur due to accidental causes, so while this finding is important, it might not be as indicative of neglect as inadequate food.
Choice B rationale:
A decline in cognitive function (Choice B) is a common issue among older adults but might not necessarily be linked to neglect. It could be due to various factors such as aging or underlying health conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Inadequate food in the refrigerator (Choice C) is the most concerning finding among the options provided. It suggests that the older adult might not be receiving proper nutrition, which can have serious health implications. Neglecting basic needs like food raises significant alarms.
Choice D rationale:
Isolation from family and friends (Choice D) is a potential sign of neglect or abuse, as social isolation can contribute to a decline in overall well-being. However, it might not pose an immediate threat to health in the same way as inadequate food.
.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Taking a vacation (Choice A) might be enjoyable or stressful depending on the circumstances, but it is not generally considered a traumatic event as it does not involve a threat to one's physical or psychological well-being.
Choice B rationale:
Changing jobs (Choice B) is a significant life event, but it is not inherently a traumatic event. It can be a positive or negative experience, depending on the individual's perspective.
Choice C rationale:
Experiencing a natural disaster (Choice C) is a traumatic event according to the text. Natural disasters can result in life-threatening situations, loss of property, and psychological distress, potentially leading to long-lasting effects on mental health.
Choice D rationale:
Celebrating a birthday (Choice D) is a joyful occasion and is not considered a traumatic event. It typically brings positive emotions and does not involve exposure to harm or danger.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Traumatic events can involve serious injuries. This choice accurately reflects that traumatic events can encompass a wide range of situations that result in physical harm, such as accidents, violence, or medical emergencies. These events can lead to significant injuries and medical consequences.
Choice C rationale:
Traumatic events can lead to mental disorders. This choice is correct because traumatic experiences can indeed trigger the development of mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety disorders, and more. The emotional impact of trauma can have lasting effects on a person's psychological well-being.
Choice D rationale:
Traumatic events can have long-lasting consequences. This choice is accurate as traumatic events can leave enduring impacts on individuals, affecting their mental, emotional, and physical well-being over an extended period. These consequences can range from chronic psychological distress to changes in behavior and relationships. Now, let's address the incorrect choices:
Choice B rationale:
Traumatic events only include natural disasters. This choice is incorrect because traumatic events are not limited to natural disasters alone. Trauma can result from various experiences, including accidents, violence, abuse, and more. Natural disasters are just one category of traumatic events.
Choice E rationale:
Traumatic events only affect certain age groups. This choice is also incorrect. Traumatic events can affect people of all ages, from children to the elderly. The impact of trauma is not restricted by age; it can influence anyone who experiences or witnesses a distressing event.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Intrusion symptoms. This choice is accurate because the client's statement about recurring nightmares and intrusive thoughts related to the accident aligns with the intrusion symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Intrusion symptoms involve distressing memories, nightmares, and flashbacks that "intrude" into the person's consciousness. Now, let's address the other choices:
Choice B rationale:
Avoidance symptoms. This choice is incorrect for this scenario. Avoidance symptoms in PTSD involve efforts to avoid reminders, thoughts, or situations associated with the traumatic event. The client's statement does not specifically reflect avoidance behaviors.
Choice C rationale:
Negative alterations in cognition and mood. This choice is also incorrect in this context. Negative alterations in cognition and mood include feelings of detachment, negative beliefs, and distorted emotions. The client's statement does not directly relate to these alterations.
Choice D rationale:
Alterations in arousal and reactivity. This choice is incorrect for the given statement. Alterations in arousal and reactivity involve symptoms like irritability, hypervigilance, and exaggerated startle response. The client's description of recurring nightmares and intrusive thoughts does not align with this symptom cluster.
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
Avoidance symptoms. This choice is accurate because the client's behavior of avoiding the site where the traumatic event occurred is characteristic of avoidance symptoms in PTSD. People with PTSD often go to great lengths to avoid reminders and triggers associated with the trauma. Now, let's address the other choices:
Choice A rationale:
Intrusion symptoms. This choice is incorrect in this context. Intrusion symptoms involve unwanted memories, nightmares, and flashbacks that intrude into a person's consciousness. Avoiding the site of the traumatic event does not align with this symptom cluster.
Choice C rationale:
Negative alterations in cognition and mood. This choice is not applicable to the client's behavior described. Negative alterations in cognition and mood involve feelings of detachment, distorted emotions, and negative beliefs about oneself or the world. Avoiding a specific location does not directly relate to this cluster.
Choice D rationale:
Alterations in arousal and reactivity. This choice is also incorrect for the given behavior. Alterations in arousal and reactivity include symptoms like irritability, hypervigilance, and difficulty concentrating. Avoidance of a particular site is not directly related to this symptom cluster.
Explanation
Physical signs.
Choice A rationale:
Psychological signs involve cognitive and mental aspects of PTSD, such as flashbacks and intrusive thoughts.
Choice B rationale:
Emotional signs encompass mood-related manifestations like fear, anger, and guilt.
Choice D rationale:
Social signs refer to difficulties in interpersonal relationships and isolation. In contrast, Choice C, physical signs, include symptoms like headaches and chronic pain which are commonly associated with PTSD due to the physiological stress response triggered by the traumatic event. This response can lead to increased muscle tension and altered pain perception, resulting in these physical symptoms. Such somatic complaints are integral to the diagnosis of PTSD, and they often coexist with other psychological and emotional symptoms.
A nurse is assessing a client for potential PTSD symptoms. Which statement by the client indicates they are experiencing intrusion symptoms?
Explanation
"I keep having nightmares about the accident."
Choice A rationale:
Feeling detached from others is a characteristic of the numbing/avoidance cluster of PTSD symptoms, not intrusion symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Involuntary, distressing thoughts about the traumatic event are indicative of intrusion symptoms, which are encapsulated by Choice B.
Choice D rationale:
Feeling irritable and on edge falls under the hyperarousal symptom category. Choice B, the correct choice, relates to nightmares about the traumatic incident, a classic intrusion symptom. These nightmares can re-traumatize the individual, making sleep challenging and contributing to the overall distress associated with PTSD.
A nurse is planning care for a client with PTSD. Which intervention is appropriate for addressing avoidance symptoms?
Explanation
Providing the client with information about local support groups.
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging relaxation techniques targets symptom management but doesn't directly address avoidance symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral techniques are helpful for various PTSD symptoms, but they primarily focus on modifying thought patterns and behaviors.
Choice D rationale:
Medications can alleviate symptoms like anxiety but don't specifically tackle avoidance symptoms. In contrast, Choice B is the most suitable intervention for addressing avoidance symptoms. Individuals with PTSD often avoid situations, places, or people that trigger memories of the trauma. Connecting them with local support groups can provide a safe environment to discuss their experiences, gradually reducing avoidance behavior. Peer support can offer validation, normalization, and sharing of coping strategies, which can ultimately aid in diminishing avoidance symptoms.
A client with PTSD is experiencing alterations in arousal and reactivity. Which nursing intervention would be most appropriate for this symptom cluster?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assisting the client in identifying and challenging negative thoughts might be more appropriate for addressing cognitive distortions in conditions like depression or anxiety disorders, but it might not directly address the alterations in arousal and reactivity characteristic of PTSD.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging the client to discuss their traumatic experience in detail could potentially trigger retraumatization and exacerbate the symptoms. Exposure therapy, which involves discussing the trauma, is generally done in a controlled and gradual manner under the guidance of a therapist.
Choice C rationale:
Teaching the client grounding techniques to manage anxiety is the most appropriate option. Grounding techniques help individuals stay connected to the present moment, reduce feelings of detachment, and manage anxiety. Techniques might include deep breathing, mindfulness, or using sensory cues to anchor oneself.
Choice D rationale:
Providing the client with a list of community resources for support is important, but it does not directly address the specific symptom cluster of alterations in arousal and reactivity. This intervention might be more relevant for overall support and coping, but not for managing the specific symptoms mentioned.
A nurse is assessing a client who experienced a traumatic event one week ago. The client is unable to remember important aspects of the event and reports feeling detached from their surroundings. Which symptom is the nurse observing in this client?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Intrusive memories are characterized by the sudden and distressing re-experiencing of the traumatic event. These memories can be in the form of flashbacks or nightmares and are not directly related to the client's reported inability to remember aspects of the event and feeling detached.
Choice B rationale:
Negative mood, while common in PTSD, pertains to feelings of sadness, anger, or guilt. It is not the primary symptom described in this scenario, where the client is struggling with memory gaps and detachment.
Choice C rationale:
The nurse is observing dissociation in this client. Dissociation involves feeling disconnected from oneself or the environment, often as a defense mechanism in response to trauma. This can manifest as depersonalization (feeling detached from one's own body) or derealization (feeling detached from one's surroundings).
Choice D rationale:
Avoidance refers to the avoidance of reminders or situations associated with the traumatic event. While it can be a symptom of PTSD, it doesn't fully capture the reported memory issues and detachment observed in this client.
Choice E rationale:
Arousal symptoms involve heightened physiological responses such as hypervigilance, irritability, and exaggerated startle responses. These symptoms are not the primary focus of the scenario, which is centered around memory gaps and detachment.
(Select all that apply): A nurse is conducting an assessment of a client with acute stress disorder (ASD). Which physical signs might the nurse find in the client?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can be physical signs of acute stress disorder. The stress response can impact the gastrointestinal system due to the activation of the "fight or flight" response.
Choice B rationale:
Cardiovascular problems, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, are also common physical signs of acute stress disorder. The body's physiological response to stress can lead to cardiovascular changes.
Choice C rationale:
Chronic pain is not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can exacerbate existing pain conditions, it is not among the hallmark physical symptoms of this disorder.
Choice D rationale:
Substance use disorder might develop as a maladaptive coping mechanism in response to stress, but it is not a direct physical sign that a nurse would observe upon assessment.
Choice E rationale:
Eating disorders are not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can affect eating habits, it is not one of the characteristic physical symptoms associated with this disorder.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse's response of acknowledging the client's emotions and normalizing their feelings validates their experience. It emphasizes that such emotional responses are common after traumatic events, helping to reduce the client's distress and potentially fostering a sense of connection.
Choice B rationale:
This response might invalidate the client's emotions and rush their healing process. Telling the client that they will "get over this eventually" oversimplifies their experience and may cause further frustration.
Choice C rationale:
Advising the client to solely focus on avoiding reminders of the trauma (situations that remind them of the event) could lead to avoidance behaviors and hinder their recovery. It's important to gradually address triggers rather than completely avoiding them.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to "forget about the event completely and move on" could be dismissive of their emotional struggle. Forgetting is not a realistic goal, and suppressing emotions can be harmful in the long run.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Urging the client to "face their fears and confront that place" might overwhelm them and exacerbate their distress. Gradual exposure is a more effective approach in managing anxiety related to trauma.
Choice B rationale:
While avoidance might provide temporary relief, it reinforces the fear and prevents the client from processing the traumatic memory. Encouraging avoidance can contribute to the persistence of their symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Gradual exposure is indeed a recommended therapeutic technique, but directly telling the client to "gradually expose themselves" might not be well received. Collaboration and guidance are important in this process.
Choice D rationale:
This response acknowledges the client's distress and suggests a collaborative approach to coping with their feelings. It opens the door for discussing coping strategies and potentially seeking professional help.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering psychological tests is not directly related to protecting the individual's rights and promoting safety. While assessment is important, it's not a primary intervention for safeguarding rights or safety.
Choice B rationale:
Providing education about trauma prevention is valuable, but it doesn't specifically address protecting the individual's rights or ensuring their safety after the traumatic event.
Choice C rationale:
Referring the individual to appropriate services, such as therapy or counseling, can help address their emotional and psychological needs while respecting their rights. This is crucial in promoting their well-being.
Choice D rationale:
Implementing prevention strategies is essential for public health but is not the primary focus when dealing with an individual already diagnosed with acute stress disorder (ASD).
Choice E rationale:
Respecting the individual's privacy and dignity creates a therapeutic and safe environment. Trauma can make individuals feel vulnerable, and ensuring their dignity is upheld helps build trust in the therapeutic relationship.
Which assessment finding should the nurse expect in a client with acute stress disorder (ASD)?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Clients with acute stress disorder (ASD) often experience dissociation, which can lead to an inability to remember crucial details of the traumatic event. This is known as dissociative amnesia and is a hallmark symptom of ASD. The traumatic event is typically encoded in fragmented or incomplete memories due to the intense stress and emotional impact it carries.
Choice B rationale:
A stable heart rate and blood pressure (Choice B) are not typical findings in clients with acute stress disorder. ASD is characterized by an acute stress response, which often leads to physiological changes such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, not stability.
Choice C rationale:
Euphoric mood and increased energy (Choice C) are not consistent with the symptoms of acute stress disorder. ASD is more likely to cause mood disturbances like anxiety, hypervigilance, and irritability, rather than euphoria and increased energy.
Choice D rationale:
Hyperactivity and distractibility (Choice D) are not primary symptoms of acute stress disorder. While heightened arousal can occur in response to stress, hyperactivity and distractibility are more indicative of conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) rather than ASD.
A nurse is caring for a client with acute stress disorder (ASD). Which intervention is the nurse's priority during the acute phase of the disorder?
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
Administering antianxiety medication as prescribed is the nurse's priority during the acute phase of acute stress disorder (ASD). This is because individuals with ASD often experience severe anxiety, panic attacks, and overwhelming distress. Antianxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, can help manage the acute symptoms and provide relief from extreme anxiety.
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to talk about the traumatic event (Choice A) might not be the priority during the acute phase. Revisiting the traumatic event prematurely could potentially retraumatize the client and exacerbate their symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the client in identifying triggers for anxiety (Choice C) is an important intervention, but it may be more relevant during the later stages of treatment, when the client is more stabilized and ready to engage in cognitive-behavioral interventions.
Choice D rationale:
Providing education about relaxation techniques (Choice D) is valuable, but it might not be the top priority during the acute phase. The client's distress and anxiety levels are likely to be too high to effectively engage with relaxation techniques initially.
Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education about acute stress disorder (ASD)?
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I'm so relieved that my symptoms will go away within a few days" indicates a need for further education about acute stress disorder (ASD). ASD symptoms typically last for a minimum of 3 days and can persist for up to a month. This statement suggests a misunderstanding about the duration of symptoms and the potential need for appropriate interventions.
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I can't believe I'm feeling so detached from everything" (Choice A) is consistent with the emotional numbing and detachment often experienced by individuals with ASD, and it does not indicate a need for further education.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I've been avoiding places that remind me of the trauma" (Choice B) is in line with the avoidance symptoms of ASD and does not necessarily indicate a need for further education.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I've been having nightmares about the event" (Choice D) is indicative of the intrusive symptoms common in ASD and does not necessarily indicate a need for further education.
Adjustment Disorder (AD)
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to express his feelings and concerns is a key intervention for someone diagnosed with adjustment disorder with depressed mood. This approach provides an outlet for the client to verbalize their emotions, which can help them process their thoughts and feelings. Through this expression, the client may gain insight into their emotional state and begin to develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Choice B rationale:
Advising the client to avoid contact with former coworkers is not an appropriate intervention. Social support is crucial during times of adjustment, and isolating oneself from supportive individuals can exacerbate feelings of depression and increase the risk of worsening mental health. Encouraging positive social interactions would be more beneficial.
Choice C rationale:
Suggesting the client take antidepressant medication for at least six months is not the primary intervention for adjustment disorder with depressed mood. Antidepressants are typically prescribed for major depressive disorder or other mood disorders. Adjustment disorder is usually managed through psychotherapy, counseling, and support rather than solely relying on medication.
Choice D rationale:
Teaching the client relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation is a valuable intervention, but it might not be the most effective as a standalone treatment for adjustment disorder with depressed mood. While relaxation techniques can help manage symptoms, addressing underlying emotional issues and facilitating emotional expression are more directly relevant to this disorder.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Inquiring about the client's typical coping mechanisms provides insight into their ability to manage stressors effectively. This information helps the nurse tailor interventions and support strategies to enhance the client's coping skills.
Choice B rationale:
Identifying the sources of stress in the client's life is essential in understanding the triggers that contribute to their adjustment disorder with anxiety. Addressing these stressors can aid in developing coping strategies and reducing the impact of these stressors on the client's mental well-being.
Choice C rationale:
While physical activity and exercise can contribute to overall mental well-being, it might not be the primary focus when assessing coping skills for adjustment disorder with anxiety. The other options more directly target coping strategies and stress management.
Choice D rationale:
Exploring the client's goals can shed light on their motivations and aspirations. Having goals can positively influence a client's sense of purpose and hope, which can be integral in managing adjustment disorder with anxiety.
Choice E rationale:
While understanding the client's emotions about their current situation is important, this question may not directly assess coping skills. It's more focused on emotional self-awareness than evaluating how the client copes with stress.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Excessive worry, nervousness, or fear are characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder, not adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct.
Choice B rationale:
Feeling sad, hopeless, or having difficulty enjoying things corresponds to symptoms of major depressive disorder, not adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct.
Choice C rationale:
Acting out, violating rules, and having problems with authority figures are behaviors indicative of adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct. This type of adjustment disorder involves behavioral issues and challenges in adhering to social norms and rules.
Choice D rationale:
Experiencing mixed emotions, such as anxiety and depression, is common in various mental health conditions, but it's not specific to adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I don’t care what happens to me anymore" indicates a lack of interest or investment in one's well-being, which is not a sign of improvement in adjustment disorder. Improvement involves a more positive outlook.
Choice B rationale:
This statement reflects the client's acknowledgment of missing their old life but actively attempting to move forward. This signifies progress in dealing with the emotional and conduct disturbances often seen in adjustment disorder.
Choice C rationale:
"I’m so angry at everyone who caused this to happen" indicates ongoing anger and blame towards others, which may suggest a lack of resolution in the emotional turmoil associated with adjustment disorder. Improvement typically involves a reduction in intense negative emotions.
Choice D rationale:
"I feel like nothing will ever change for the better" represents a pessimistic and hopeless perspective, indicating that the client does not perceive any potential for improvement. This mindset does not align with progress in adjustment disorder.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Symptoms of adjustment disorder must appear within one month of exposure to the stressor. This time frame helps differentiate adjustment disorder from other mental health conditions that might have a longer onset period, such as major depressive disorder.
Choice B rationale:
Three months is a longer period than the typical onset for symptoms of adjustment disorder. The correct time frame is within one month to establish a clear connection between the stressor and the subsequent emotional and behavioral responses.
Choice C rationale:
Six months is beyond the specified time frame for the appearance of symptoms in adjustment disorder. The shorter time frame of one month is more relevant to this diagnosis.
Choice D rationale:
Twelve months exceeds the appropriate time frame for diagnosing adjustment disorder. The focus is on the relatively short period of one month for symptoms to manifest after exposure to a stressor.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Including a social worker to help with financial and legal issues is important because adjustment disorder can lead to practical challenges in these areas due to the emotional and behavioral disturbances. Addressing these stressors can contribute to the client's overall well-being.
Choice B rationale:
While psychotropic medications might be used to manage certain symptoms, adjustment disorder primarily involves emotional and behavioral responses to stressors. Therefore, a psychiatrist's involvement is not the primary referral for this case.
Choice C rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a valuable intervention for adjustment disorder, focusing on changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. However, the question specifies "unspecified symptoms," and other practical issues (financial and legal) are of greater concern at this stage.
Choice D rationale:
Joining a support group can be helpful for sharing experiences and coping strategies, but for the specific needs associated with adjustment disorder and its impact on financial and legal matters, a social worker's expertise is more relevant. 18. Correct answer: B - The client's statement reflects an effort to move on from the past. Correct answer: A - Symptoms of adjustment disorder must appear within one month of the stressor. Correct answer: A - A social worker can address practical issues arising from adjustment disorder.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Difficulty sleeping can be an expected finding in a client with adjustment disorder due to the heightened anxiety and stress associated with the condition. Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep, are common manifestations. The psychological distress from the divorce can lead to disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle, impacting overall sleep quality.
Choice B rationale:
Loss of appetite is another potential symptom in clients with adjustment disorder. The emotional turmoil resulting from the divorce can cause a reduced interest in food, leading to appetite changes and subsequent weight loss. This can be attributed to the physiological and psychological impact of stress on the body.
Choice C rationale:
Suicidal ideation is not a common symptom of adjustment disorder. While clients may experience emotional distress and mood disturbances, full-blown suicidal ideation is more often associated with more severe mental health conditions like major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder.
Choice D rationale:
Impaired concentration is an expected symptom in adjustment disorder. The emotional strain and anxiety related to the divorce can lead to difficulty focusing, making decisions, and maintaining attention on tasks. This cognitive impairment is a direct consequence of the psychological distress.
Choice E rationale:
Increased energy is not typically associated with adjustment disorder. Rather, clients with this condition often experience fatigue, decreased energy levels, and a lack of motivation due to the emotional toll of the stressor (in this case, the divorce).
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Avoiding stress-triggering situations is not a comprehensive strategy for managing stress, especially for individuals with adjustment disorder. Total avoidance can hinder personal growth and does not address the underlying issues contributing to the disorder.
Choice B rationale:
Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations is an effective stress management technique. This technique helps individuals challenge negative thoughts, boost self-esteem, and develop a more optimistic outlook. This is particularly beneficial for clients with adjustment disorder to counter the negative emotions associated with their stressor.
Choice C rationale:
Setting realistic and attainable goals is an essential aspect of stress management. It provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, contributing to improved self-esteem. For clients with adjustment disorder, achieving even small goals can enhance their sense of control and reduce feelings of helplessness.
Choice D rationale:
Seeking social support from friends and family is crucial for individuals with adjustment disorder. Positive social interactions provide emotional comfort, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, which can counteract the feelings of isolation and distress that often accompany adjustment disorder.
Choice E rationale:
Using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress is an unhealthy and counterproductive strategy. Substance use can exacerbate emotional distress, interfere with problem-solving skills, and lead to dependency. It does not address the root causes of the stress and can worsen the symptoms of adjustment disorder.
.
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Aggression and violence are not typical psychological signs of reactive attachment disorder (RAD). RAD is characterized by difficulties forming healthy emotional attachments and relationships, rather than overt aggressive behaviors.
Choice B rationale:
Lack of trust and empathy are hallmark psychological signs of RAD. Children with RAD often struggle to establish and maintain trust in caregivers, which can lead to challenges in forming healthy relationships later in life. Additionally, impaired empathy is a common feature, as these children may not fully understand or respond to others' emotions.
Choice C rationale:
Growth retardation and malnutrition are not primarily psychological signs of RAD. While children with RAD may exhibit problems with physical growth and development due to neglect or inconsistent caregiving, these are more related to the physical aspects of care rather than psychological symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Lack of involvement in social activities is related to RAD. Children with RAD often have difficulty participating in and enjoying social interactions due to their challenges with forming attachments and developing trust. However, this symptom is primarily related to their psychological struggles rather than a lack of interest in social activities.
(Select all that apply): A nurse is providing nursing interventions for a child with reactive attachment disorder (RAD). Which interventions are appropriate for this child?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Educating the child and caregiver about attachment development (Choice A) is an appropriate intervention for a child with reactive attachment disorder (RAD). This disorder is characterized by significant difficulties in forming emotional attachments due to early negative caregiving experiences. Providing education about attachment development can help both the child and caregiver understand the underlying issues and work towards building healthier attachments.
Choice B rationale:
Protecting the child's rights and ensuring a safe environment (Choice B) is crucial for children with RAD. These children often have a history of neglect or abuse, and ensuring their safety and rights is a priority to prevent further harm.
Choice C rationale:
Administering psychological tests for personality assessment (Choice C) is not a primary nursing intervention for RAD. RAD is primarily diagnosed based on clinical observations and history rather than personality assessments.
Choice D rationale:
Providing legal assistance and reporting any suspected abuse (Choice D) is important for ensuring the child's safety, but it is not a direct nursing intervention for RAD. Legal assistance and reporting abuse would be necessary if there are suspicions of maltreatment but are not specific interventions for addressing RAD.
Choice E rationale:
Referring the child to community services for physical therapy (Choice E) is not directly related to addressing the core issues of reactive attachment disorder. Physical therapy may be beneficial for certain conditions, but it's not a primary intervention for RAD.