One key component of the NCLEX-RN exam is Psychosocial Integrity, which focuses on the nurse’s ability to promote and support the emotional, mental, and social well-being of patients. This area encompasses various aspects such as coping mechanisms, mental health concepts, and the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship.
Key Concepts in Psychosocial Integrity
- Coping Mechanisms: Understanding how patients manage stress, illness, and changes in their health status is crucial. Nurses need to recognize different coping strategies, both adaptive (e.g., problem-solving, seeking support) and maladaptive (e.g., denial, substance abuse).
- Mental Health Concepts: This includes knowledge of common mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, along with their signs, symptoms, and treatment options. Nurses must also be familiar with therapeutic communication techniques to effectively support patients with mental health issues.
- Therapeutic Communication: Establishing a trusting relationship with patients is fundamental. Techniques such as active listening, empathy, reflecting feelings, and providing reassurance are essential for effective communication and support.
- Grief and Loss: Nurses must understand the stages of grief and how individuals process loss. This knowledge enables them to provide appropriate support and interventions for patients and their families during difficult times.
- Crisis Intervention: Nurses should be prepared to respond to patients experiencing acute psychological crises, such as suicidal ideation or panic attacks. Knowing the appropriate interventions and resources available is vital for ensuring patient safety.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Providing culturally competent care involves understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs. Nurses must be aware of how cultural differences can impact patients’ mental health and coping strategies.
Look at a sample Question
A patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder is exhibiting signs of hopelessness and helplessness. Which coping mechanism is the patient most likely using?
- Denial.
- Regression.
- Rationalization.
- Suppression
Answer: B) Regression
Explanation: Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier stage of development in response to stress. In this case, the patient may exhibit childlike behaviors as a way to cope with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
Below are more questions to check your scope of passing NCLEX RN. Hit “Let’s Play.”
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Question of
A patient with generalized anxiety disorder is experiencing a panic attack. What is the most appropriate initial nursing intervention?
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Encourage the patient to talk about their feelings.
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Administer an anti-anxiety medication.
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Provide a calm and quiet environment.
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Offer the patient a glass of water.
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Offer the patient a glass of water.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: The initial priority is to reduce stimuli and provide a calm, quiet environment. This helps decrease the patient's anxiety and promotes a sense of safety.
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Question of
A patient with schizophrenia believes they have special powers and can control the weather. Which type of delusion is this?
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Persecutory.
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Grandiose.
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Somatic.
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Referential.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: Grandiose delusions involve an inflated sense of self-worth, power, knowledge, or identity. The patient's belief in having special powers to control the weather is a grandiose delusion.
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Question of
A nurse is assessing a patient with depression who states, “I feel like a burden to my family and don’t see the point of living.” What should the nurse do first?
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Encourage the patient to participate in group activities.
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Reassure the patient that these feelings will pass.
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Refer the patient to a psychiatrist.
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Ask the patient if they have a plan to harm themselves.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: Assessing for suicidal ideation is crucial. The nurse must determine if the patient has a plan and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.
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Question of
A patient with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experiences flashbacks. Which nursing intervention is most effective in managing this symptom?
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Encourage the patient to confront their trauma.
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Advise the patient to avoid discussing their trauma.
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Help the patient focus on the present moment.
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Suggest the patient ignore the flashbacks.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: Grounding techniques help patients focus on the present moment and reduce the intensity of flashbacks. This intervention helps them feel more in control.
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Question of
A patient with bipolar disorder is in the manic phase. Which behavior is the nurse most likely to observe?
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Low energy and fatigue.
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Slow speech and movements.
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Elevated mood and hyperactivity.
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Lack of interest in activities.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: During the manic phase, patients with bipolar disorder exhibit elevated mood, hyperactivity, increased energy, and often engage in risky behaviors.
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Question of
A patient with major depressive disorder is being treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). What is the primary focus of CBT?
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Identifying and changing negative thought patterns.
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Exploring past traumatic events.
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Improving social skills.
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Enhancing physical health.
Correct Wrong
Explanation: CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to the patient's depression.
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