Schizophrenia
What is the difference between positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia?
Positive symptoms are additional behaviors like hallucinations and delusions, while negative symptoms are the absence of normal functions, such as social withdrawal and lack of motivation.
What are the three clusters of personality disorders as per the DSM-5?
Cluster A (Odd), Cluster B (Dramatic), and Cluster C (Fearful).
What is the second leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults in the United States?
Suicide.
When working with a schizophrenic patient, what is one thing you should not do when they express delusions?
Do not reinforce the delusions.
What is the first line of treatment for schizophrenia?
Antipsychotic medications.
At what age range does schizophrenia most commonly manifest?
Between 16 and 35 years old.
What personality disorder is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
Name two major risk factors for suicide.
Depression and substance abuse.
What is the best response to a patient with schizophrenia who is hallucinating?
“I don’t see the snake, but let’s walk to the dining room together.”
Name one treatment approach for borderline personality disorder.
Group therapy.
Name two other psychotic disorders on the schizophrenia spectrum.
Schizoaffective disorder, Schizophreniform disorder.
Which personality disorder is associated with a pattern of irresponsible and exploitive behavior often linked to criminal activity?
Antisocial Personality Disorder.
What is a common method of suicide used more by men?
Firearms and hanging.
What is a critical nursing intervention for patients with personality disorders?
Promote trust and model positive behaviors.
What type of therapy is often recommended for patients with personality disorders to help with socialization?
Group therapy.
What type of hallucinations are most common in schizophrenia?
Auditory hallucinations.
What personality disorder is marked by unstable relationships, clinging behavior, and a tendency toward manipulation?
Borderline Personality Disorder.
What should you ask directly if a patient shows warning signs of suicide?
Are you planning to kill yourself?” or “Do you have a plan?”
What intervention is necessary when working with a suicidal patient in an acute care setting?
Monitor the patient every 10–15 minutes.
For schizophrenia, why is long-term medication compliance essential?
Patients may need to be on antipsychotics for life, and non-compliance can lead to relapse.
What is the primary class of medication used to treat schizophrenia?
Antipsychotics.
Name one key nursing intervention when working with a patient with borderline personality disorder.
Set clear boundaries and limits.
What is one important intervention in the hospital for suicidal patients?
Remove all potential weapons (e.g., sharp objects, cords, etc.).
How should you communicate with a patient showing suicidal ideation?
Use direct and honest confrontational communication.
What is the role of anticholinergics in treating schizophrenia?
To counteract extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications.