Clinical Practicum I
FINAL EXAM READINESS GUIDE
Q&S
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,1. A 65-year-old patient with chronic depression has been
prescribed a new SSRI. Which of the following side effects
is the patient most likely to experience?
A) Bradycardia
B) Hypertension
C) Sexual dysfunction
D) Hyperglycemia
Answer: C) Sexual dysfunction
Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect
associated with SSRIs due to serotonin's inhibitory effects
on sexual functioning.
2. Which of the following psychiatric conditions is most
commonly associated with elderly patients and often
misdiagnosed as dementia?
A) Major depressive disorder
B) Bipolar disorder
C) Schizophrenia
D) Generalized anxiety disorder
Answer: A) Major depressive disorder
Rationale: Depression in the elderly can present with
cognitive impairment that may mimic dementia, often
referred to as "pseudodementia."
3. An 80-year-old patient with mild cognitive impairment is
experiencing agitation and hallucinations. Which medication
is preferred for managing these symptoms?
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, A) Haloperidol
B) Clozapine
C) Olanzapine
D) Risperidone
Answer: D) Risperidone
Rationale: Risperidone is often preferred due to its
efficacy in reducing psychotic symptoms and a safer side
effect profile compared to older antipsychotics like
haloperidol.
4. In the geriatric population, which of the following is a
priority consideration when prescribing psychiatric
medications?
A) Cost of medication
B) Polypharmacy
C) Color of medication
D) Formulation preference
Answer: B) Polypharmacy
Rationale: Polypharmacy is a critical concern in elderly
patients due to increased risk of drug interactions and
adverse effects.
Fill-in-the-Blank Questions
5. The therapeutic use of cognitive-behavioral therapy in
treating adult and geriatric patients with anxiety disorders
focuses primarily on modifying cognitive distortions and
_________.
Answer: Behaviors
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